Europe is the ultimate holiday destination; it’s home to some of the most visited cities in the world, like Paris, Barcelona, or Milan, but did you know that it’s also home to some of the most iconic long-distance hikes? Yes, Europe is a hiker’s paradise, with routes that take you through mountains, coastlines, and ancient villages packed with history.
That’s why if you’re looking for a different type of vacation, a walking holiday is the best option; these long-distance hikes let you explore amazing landscapes while improving your health. From the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc in France to the famous Camino de Santiago, here are the best options for planning your next walking trip.
Orbis Ways: The Best Way to Plan Your Adventure
While a walking holiday is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture, explore unique places, and connect with nature, it does require careful planning, and that can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. That’s where Orbis Ways comes in, a travel agency that specializes in walking trips across Europe.
They take care of everything for you with packages that include accommodation, luggage transfers, and detailed itineraries as well as 24-hour assistance. Not only that, but on platforms like Google Reviews, they have up to 4.7 stars, with most reviews being positive. Other travelers praise their attention to detail as well as the convenience of having everything organized in advance. If you want a hassle-free adventure, their services are definitely worth considering.
Tour du Mont Blanc in France
The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is one of the most breathtaking hikes you can take in France, probably in the whole continent. It’s one of the most dreamy routes you can find; the snow-capped peaks, the green valleys, and the alpine villages make it an experience out of this world. This 170 kilometer circular trail surrounds the Mont Blanc mountain, and passes across several countries: from France, Italy, to Switzerland, which makes it not only a physical challenge but also a multicultural experience.
It’s a fact that the TMB is a special route, mostly thanks to its different landscapes, one moment you’re checking glaciers and the other you’re standing in a meadow packed with wildflowers. Unlike other routes, here you will find an excellent tourist infrastructure, cozy mountain inns, and amazing food. The whole trail usually takes from 7 to 10 days to complete, but that depends on your fitness level and pace, and while it’s not technically hard, it does demand a good level of fitness due to the constant ups and downs.
The Cotswold Way, England
The Cotswold Way is an excellent option if you’re looking for a walking holiday in England that combines idyllic landscapes with ancient villages and places filled with history. The trail runs through one of the most beautiful regions of the country in a 164-kilometer hike that takes you from the city of Bath to the historic village of Chipping Campden.
What makes this hike special is its relaxed atmosphere, which is perfect for those who are looking to enjoy nature without a major physical challenge.
Along the way, you will find green hills, lush forests, and small villages. You’ll be able to check the honey-colored stone houses that are typical of the area. One of the highlights is Broadway Tower, an 18th-century tower with panoramic views. The route is well-marked and is easy to follow; on top of that, it also has good infrastructure, which includes cozy pubs and rural accommodations. Unlike other routes that may be more challenging, the Cotswold Way is accessible to hikers of all levels, but it’s always recommended that you wear the right shoes.
Conclusion
Europe offers some of the best hiking trails in the world, each with its own unique charm and requirements. Whether you like to hike across France, Italy, to Switzerland on the Tour du Mont Blanc or the tranquil countryside of England during The Cotswold Way, there is surely a perfect hike for you. And remember that if you want to simplify the logistics, companies like Orbis Ways can make your experience easier and better.
