5 beautiful and doable long-distance hiking trails
We don't need to explain that Europe is a true paradise for hiking fans. In addition to the many wonderful day trips, you can also find incredible long-distance hiking trails from north to south that promise relaxation and adventure at the same time. From the mystical Highlands in Scotland, to the idyllic coast of Portugal, to the fascinating forests of Germany - these 5 long-distance hiking trails offer you unforgettable experiences and can also be perfectly accommodated in a two-week vacation.
1. The West Highland Way in the Scottish Highlands
The West Highland Way stretches over 154 kilometers from Milngavie near Glasgow to Fort William. This long-distance hiking trail offers you not only breathtaking nature, but also cultural and historical experiences, making it an unforgettable mix of adventure and discovery.
The route takes in stunning scenery such as the shores of Loch Lomond, the remote Rannoch Moor and the historic valley of Glencoe. The trail ends in Fort William, where you can climb Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Most hikers complete the West Highland Way in eight days, which equates to 20 to 25 kilometres per day.
There are numerous accommodation options along the way, ranging from campsites to hostels and cosy bed and breakfasts. Important: The weather in the Scottish Highlands can be unpredictable at any time of year and rain is common, so it is important that you are prepared for all weather conditions.
The most important things about the West Highland Way:
- 154 kilometers long, 8 stages
- From Milngavie to Fort William
- Highlights: Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, Glencoe, the highest mountain in Great Britain
- Best time: From May to September
2. The Lechweg in the mountains of Austria
The Lechweg is a beautiful long-distance hiking trail that stretches for about 125 kilometers. It runs through the Lechtal Alps and through one of the last wild river landscapes in Europe. According to the motto "From the source to the fall", you follow the course of the Lech, starting at the beautiful Formarinsee in the Austrian Vorarlberg to just over the border in Füssen in Bavaria.
On the Lechweg you will experience a varied landscape with alpine meadows, dense forests, dramatic gorges and rolling hills. The highlights include the charming village of Lech am Arlberg, the idyllic town of Reutte and the spectacular 200-meter-long Holzgau suspension bridge.
The route offers numerous accommodation options from cosy guesthouses to comfortable hotels and, although partly alpine, is feasible for almost all fitness levels.
The most important things about the Lechweg:
- 125 kilometers long
- Stage variations: Classic in 7, comfortable in 8, slow-paced in 10
- From the source of the Lech in Vorarlberg to the waterfall in Füssen
- Highlights: Lech am Arlberg, Reutte, Holzgau suspension bridge
- Best time: mid/late June to early October
3. The Fisherman's Trail on Portugal's coast
Walking the Fisherman's Trail offers you a spectacular backdrop of rugged cliffs, golden beaches, hidden coves and traditional fishing villages. The route often follows the paths used by local fishermen to get to their fishing grounds, hence the name.
The Fisherman’s Path is part of the Rota Vicentina and it now includes 13 stages covering a total of 226,5 kilometers. The coastal path is known for its breathtaking views of the Atlantic and the diverse flora and fauna, which range from sandy dunes and rugged cliffs to peaceful river mouths.
Along the way you will pass charming villages such as Vila Nova de Milfontes, Almograve and Zambujeira do Mar, where you will have the opportunity to enjoy local cuisine and stay in comfortable accommodation. The route also passes through several nature reserves, including the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina.
The most important thing about the Fisherman's Trail:
- 226,5 kilometers, 13 stages
- From São Torpes to Lagos
- Highlights: cute coastal towns, panoramic views of the Atlantic, Parque Natural
- Best time to travel: March to June
4. The Tjustleden in Swedish Småland
The Tjustleden long-distance hiking trail in Sweden stretches over 203 kilometres from Mörtfors in the south to Falerum in the north of the Region of SmalandMost hikers complete the route in 9 stages. At the end of each stage there are wind shelters where you can spend the night.
The Tjustleden offers a varied landscape, ranging from deep forests and wide fields to rocky coastlines and still waters. In the villages along the way you can enjoy local specialties and experience Swedish hospitality. Nature and animal sightings are common, including moose, deer and various bird species.
There are also some cultural sights along the trail, such as old stone circles and historic churches. The Tjustleden is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the untouched nature and quiet landscape of southern Sweden, without missing out on culture.
The most important things about the Tjustleden:
- 203 kilometers, 9 stages
- From Mörtfors to Falerum (Småland region)
- Highlights: the many lakes, animal sightings, the Uknatal
- Best time: May to September
5. The Painter’s Trail in Saxon Switzerland
The painter way in Saxon Switzerland stretches over about 116 kilometers. From Liebethal it leads through the rocky world of the Saxon Switzerland National Park to the Bohemian border and on the left bank of the Elbe through the realm of the table mountains to Pirna. The route is divided into eight stages, each of which is between 11 and 18 kilometers long.
This long-distance hiking trail owes its name to the artists who were inspired by the picturesque landscape in the 19th century, including Caspar David Friedrich. The route of the trail offers a breathtaking mix of rugged cliffs, deep gorges and wide viewpoints. You will see spectacular natural scenery, including the striking sandstone formations such as the Bastei or the Schrammsteine. The trail also leads through picturesque valleys, dense forests and along the banks of the Elbe, offering a great variety of landscapes.
The Malerweg also combines nature experiences with cultural impressions and history. In addition to the impressive landscapes, there are also some historical sites to discover along the way, such as the Königstein Fortress and Pillnitz Castle.
The most important:
- 116 kilometers, 8 stages
- from Liebethal to Pirna
- Highlights: Pfaffenstein, Bastei, Königstein Fortress, Pillnitz Castle
- Best time: from April to October
Which of these long-distance hiking trails appeals to you the most? Have you even hiked one of them?
More exciting articles on hiking:
UP HIGH: WHY A STAY IN THE MOUNTAINS IS SO HEALTHY
AUTUMN HIKING IN THE ZUGSPITZ REGION
HIKING BY THE WATER IN THE ZUGSPITZ REGION
EXCITING HIKING TOURS IN THE ZUGSPITZ REGION WITHOUT A CAR
Photos: Nadine Pinezits, IMAGO / Pond5 Images, Dreamstime, Pond5 Images, F. Anthea Schaap, imagebroker, Sylvio Dittrich (2)
Nadine Pinezits
Nadine is a freelance editor and copywriter. She lives in Austria and commutes between Salzburg and Vienna. This means she is either in the mountains or in the urban jungle, but at the same time tries to spend as much time as possible in her beloved country, Portugal.
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