Our Top Long-Distance Hikes – Europe and Germany
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Currently 28 trails listed.
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FAQ Long Distance Hikes: A Journey Beyond the Horizon
Do you dream of epic adventures, of winding paths leading you through breathtaking landscapes and challenging you to your core? If so, then Long-Distance Hikes might be the answer you’ve been searching for. These immersive journeys, stretching hundreds or even thousands of miles, offer a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature, test your limits, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
The Trail Less Traveled: Long Distance vs. Thru-Hikes
The call of the wild beckons, and both long-distance hikes and thru-hikes offer a chance to answer. But before you lace up your boots, understanding the differences is key to choosing the adventure that fits your soul.
Long-distance: Think weeks or months, covering anywhere from 50 to 500+ miles. Examples include sections of the Appalachian Trail or European trails like the West Highland Way. Thru-hike: Aim for the whole enchilada! These journeys span hundreds or even thousands of miles, like the complete Appalachian Trail (2,181 miles) or the Pacific Crest Trail (2,650 miles).
Why embark on a Long-Distance Hike?
Beyond the physical challenge and stunning scenery, these hikes offer profound personal growth. You’ll push your physical and mental boundaries, discovering hidden strengths and resilience. You’ll be humbled by the vastness of nature and develop a deeper appreciation for its beauty and fragility. You’ll connect with fellow hikers from all walks of life, building a unique camaraderie based on shared experiences.
Ready to take the first step?
Before setting off, thorough planning is crucial. Research different trails, assess your fitness level, and choose gear that matches the terrain and climate. Building a strong support network and understanding the logistical aspects are also essential.
Long-Distance Hikes are not for the faint of heart, but the rewards are immeasurable. They offer a chance to escape the ordinary, challenge yourself, and connect with nature and yourself in a profound way. So, if you’re yearning for an adventure that will push you beyond your limits and leave an indelible mark on your soul, start planning your Long-Distance Hike today. It might just be the journey you’ve been waiting for.
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Your downloadable pdf list of 20 Long-distance hikes in Germany and Europe.
Long-distance hikes in Europe and Germany offer breathtaking landscapes, challenging paths or demanding vertical meters. Hiking Experience only introduces you to trails that we have explored ourselves. Neither of these routes is necessarily easy to tackle, but the challenge of completing these beautiful and adventurous hikes is part of the fun. Each path on the list is linked to our detailed page with maps, gpx, reports and more usefull information. Download this list of long-distance trails for free!
Our Top 20 hiking trails
5 of the best Long-Distance Hikes in Europe and Germany
Whether it’s a hut to hut hike in the mountains, a round trip or island crossings. Long-distance hikes are a challenge from many perspectives. Our aim is always to be lightweight and independent when traveling with a tent and backpack. Here at Hiking Experience, we love exploring the unkown of walking trails in Europe and have picked out just five of the best long-distance walks for you to browse ahead of your next hiking adventure.
> Kungsleden Trail
Embark on an exhilarating adventure through Sweden’s Kungsleden Trail, a 270-mile long-distance hiker’s paradise. Traverse breathtaking landscapes, from lush valleys to snow-capped mountains. Encounter crystal-clear lakes, roaring rivers, and enchanting forests. Challenge yourself with steep ascents and cross suspension bridges. Stay in charming mountain huts and witness the magical Northern Lights. Summit Sweden’s highest peak, Mount Kebnekaise, for panoramic views. Perfect for all hikers seeking an unforgettable journey. Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime on the Kungsleden Trail!
> Skye Trail
The Skye Trail in Scotland is an 80-mile long-distance hike that takes hikers through stunning landscapes, including the iconic Cuillin Mountains and the enchanting Fairy Pools. This challenging trail offers panoramic views of the Scottish Highlands, as well as opportunities to explore ancient castles and traditional villages. With its rugged terrain and rich cultural heritage, the Skye Trail promises an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a true Scottish experience.
> Haute Randonnée Pyrénéenne, HRP
The HRP Pyrenees is a captivating long-distance path that stretches across the stunning Pyrenees mountain range, offering hikers an unforgettable adventure. Spanning approximately 800 kilometers, this trail takes trekkers through breathtaking landscapes, from lush valleys to rugged peaks. The HRP Pyrenees is renowned for its challenging terrain, demanding physical endurance and mental resilience. Along the way, hikers encounter diverse wildlife, picturesque villages, and ancient ruins, immersing themselves in the rich history and culture of the region. This epic journey provides an opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature, leaving hikers with a profound sense of accomplishment and a lifetime of cherished memories.
> GR 221
The GR 221 Mallorca is a long-distance hike that promises an exhilarating adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Balearic Island. Spanning over 135 kilometers, this trail takes hikers on a journey through rugged mountains, picturesque villages, and breathtaking coastal cliffs. The diverse terrain offers a thrilling challenge, with steep ascents and descents that test both physical endurance and mental resilience. Along the way, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, lush forests, and ancient ruins. The GR 221 Mallorca is not just a hike; it is an unforgettable experience that immerses adventurers in the natural beauty and rich history of this enchanting island.
> GR 20
The GR 20, also known as the Grande Randonnée 20, is a legendary long-distance hike that traverses the rugged and breathtaking landscapes of Corsica, France. Spanning approximately 180 kilometers, this challenging trail offers hikers an unforgettable adventure through mountainous terrain, dense forests, and crystal-clear rivers. The GR 20 is renowned for its technical difficulty, with steep ascents, treacherous descents, and narrow paths that test even the most experienced hikers. However, the reward is immense, as the route showcases stunning vistas, picturesque villages, and encounters with diverse wildlife. Embarking on the GR 20 promises an exhilarating journey that pushes physical limits while immersing oneself in the untamed beauty of Corsica.
