Walking routes with history
We have put together a list that gives you the complete overview and plenty of inspiration for your next walking holiday.
Most of these famous walking routes will take you through Europe’s magnificent nature – from England’s green valleys and Scotland’s wild highlands to the majestic peaks of the Alps and the rugged rock formations of Corsica. But of course, we couldn’t resist including one special destination: Nepal. Because when the majestic mountains of the Himalayas call, you listen.
The list is divided by country, so you can easily find the route that suits you. Along the way, we have also included our current trips where we offer walking holidays to these destinations.
England
Coast to Coast
The Coast to Coast route is one of England’s most iconic walking trails, created by author Alfred Wainwright in 1972. Stretching 303 km from St Bees on the Irish Sea to Robin Hood’s Bay on the North Sea, the route passes through three stunning national parks: the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, and the North York Moors.
Along the way, you’ll encounter beautiful lakes, impressive mountains, and charming villages. Wainwright designed the route by linking together existing paths, making it both challenging and wonderfully varied. This journey is ideal for experienced walkers looking to explore England’s spectacular nature and rich history.
Cumbria Way
Through the historic Lake District
The Cumbria Way is a 112 km walking route running from Ulverston in the south to Carlisle in the north. It winds its way through the beautiful valleys of the Lake District, with paths following lake shores and weaving through lush green landscapes. The route was first planned in the 1970s but was not officially waymarked until 2007.
Along the way, you can experience iconic spots such as Coniston Water and Derwentwater, and feel the history in the towns of Ulverston and Carlisle. The Lake District is famous for inspiring poets such as William Wordsworth, whose beautiful nature poems still resonate with walkers and visitors today.
Hadrian's Wall
Hadrian’s Wall follows the iconic fortification built by Emperor Hadrian between AD 122 and 128 to protect the northern frontier of the Roman Empire. The trail stretches for 135 km from Wallsend near Newcastle to the Solway Coast, offering both stunning scenery and fascinating historical ruins. In the central section, you’ll find the best-preserved forts and impressive stretches of wall, winding through Northumberland’s rolling hills.
Opened in 2003, Hadrian’s Wall Path became the first National Trail in England to follow a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This route offers a unique insight into Britain’s rich history combined with its scenic landscapes.
Cotswold Way
Cotswold Way is a historic 163 km walking route stretching from Chipping Campden to the iconic city of Bath. Following the western escarpment of the Cotswold Hills, the trail offers rolling green hills, idyllic villages, and lush woodlands. The area was once renowned for its wool production, which brought prosperity to the charming market towns along the way.
Highlights include Broadway Tower and the ancient Roman spa city of Bath. In spring, the route bursts into life with colourful wildflower meadows and abundant wildlife, making it especially appealing for butterfly enthusiasts. Cotswold Way is a true gem for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Scotland
West Highland Way
The West Highland Way is Scotland’s oldest and most famous long-distance walking route, stretching 154 km from Milngavie near Glasgow to Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis. The trail takes you through the enchanting Scottish Highlands, celebrated for their rugged beauty and rich history. Along the way, you’ll pass Loch Lomond, the largest lake in Great Britain, as well as Rannoch Moor – a remote and atmospheric expanse of bog and moorland.
Historic landmarks such as Kilchurn Castle and Rob Roy’s Grave tell tales of Scottish clans and ancient battles. Combining breathtaking landscapes with fascinating cultural heritage, the West Highland Way remains a firm favourite among walkers from around the world.
Great Glen Way
The Great Glen Way follows the historic trade route through the Scottish Highlands, stretching from Fort William to Inverness. Along the way, it passes iconic landmarks such as Loch Ness and the Caledonian Canal. This region has a dramatic past filled with clan battles and ancient battlefields, giving the walk a truly unique atmosphere.
You’ll encounter stunning lochs, rolling hills, and charming villages with traditional pubs. The trail is well waymarked but does require good fitness, as some of the longer stages can be challenging. The Great Glen Way offers not only breathtaking scenery but also a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s storied past.
Ireland
Walking the Dingle Way
The Dingle Way is one of Ireland’s most popular walking routes, offering both breathtaking scenery and a rich cultural heritage. The trail leads you through charming fishing villages where you can enjoy traditional Irish music and meet locals who still speak Gaelic.
Along the way, you’ll pass through Dunquin, a historic Gaelic village with views of the scenic Blasket Islands. The area is renowned for its archaeological sites, including ring forts, dolmens, and Ogham stones inscribed during the early medieval period.
The route also crosses Mount Brandon, one of Ireland’s highest peaks, deeply rooted in Irish mythology and pilgrimage traditions. The Dingle Way blends stunning natural landscapes with captivating history, making it a walking experience that truly immerses you in Ireland’s cultural heritage.
Walking the Wicklow Way
The Wicklow Way is one of Ireland’s most famous walking routes and was officially opened in 1980 as the country’s first marked long-distance trail. The route winds through the Wicklow Mountains, known as “The Garden of Ireland”, offering beautiful scenery, ancient woodlands, and charming villages.
Along the way, you’ll pass through Glendalough, a glacial valley home to a remarkably well-preserved 6th-century monastic settlement. Once an important religious centre, it is now famous for its tranquil lakes and stunning surroundings.
The Wicklow Way finishes in Marlay Park, just outside Dublin, where you can round off your journey with both history and the vibrant life of Ireland’s capital.
Austria
The Jakobsweg
A famous pilgrimage walk in Austria
The Jakobsweg takes you through Austria’s stunning landscapes from Salzburg to Tyrol. With deep historical roots, this route has for centuries been part of the network used by pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace, has a strong Catholic heritage and was the seat of archbishops for hundreds of years.
Along the way, you’ll pass idyllic lakes, rushing rivers, and breathtaking mountain views. Highlights include the Lofer Steinberge mountains and the picturesque Pillersee Valley. The route mainly follows valleys, meaning limited elevation gain and a gentler walking experience.
Switzerland
Via Alpina – Bear Trek
The Via Alpina, also known as the Bear Trek, takes you through the breathtaking Swiss Alps. The route gets its name from a time when bears roamed freely in the region, though they are no longer found here. Today, the trail leads you across dramatic landscapes with glaciers, deep valleys, and high mountain passes.
Along the way, you’ll pass the famous peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau – iconic mountains that have attracted climbers since the 19th century. This is a demanding trek that requires good fitness and surefootedness. Accommodation is available in charming spots along the route, where you can enjoy the warm hospitality of the Swiss Alps.
Via Spluga
Historic walking route in Switzerland
The Via Spluga is a historic trail that has connected Switzerland and Italy for centuries. Following an ancient trade route once used by the Romans, it offers a fascinating blend of culture and nature. Along the way, you’ll pass the dramatic Rofla and Viamala gorges, where steep rock walls tell the story of the region’s rugged terrain.
The route leads you to the medieval village of Splügen before continuing towards the Splügen Pass at 2,115 metres above sea level – once a key crossing point for traders moving goods between north and south. The Via Spluga is perfect for those wanting to combine an active holiday with rich history and stunning Alpine scenery.
Via Engiadina
The Via Engiadina trail follows the River Inn, which rises at the Maloja Pass and winds its way through breathtaking Alpine landscapes. For centuries, the river has connected mountain villages in the Engadine region, serving as an important lifeline for the area. Along the route, you’ll pass the Silvaplana Pass and the chic resort town of St. Moritz, with spectacular views of the Bernina Glacier.
In the southeast of Switzerland, you’ll also find the country’s oldest national park, protected since 1914, offering untouched nature and diverse wildlife. The route features varied terrain with both ascents and descents, making good physical fitness essential. Trails can be demanding, even for experienced walkers, so sturdy hiking boots are a must for secure footing.
France
GR20 on Corsica
The GR20 on Corsica is one of Europe’s most famous long-distance hiking trails, stretching 180 km across the island. Established in 1972, the route follows the mountain chain from Bavella in the south to Asco in the north. Along the way, you’ll encounter Corsica’s wild and rugged scenery, with dramatic cliffs, forests, and mountain peaks.
Historically, the GR20 was used by shepherds and traders crossing the island’s mountains. Today, it’s known as a challenging yet unforgettable adventure. Accommodation is in camps, mountain refuges, and small hotels, with luggage transfers provided on most days – although there are some sections where you’ll need to carry all necessary gear yourself.
GR10 in France
From the Atlantic to the Mediterranean
The GR10 is an impressive long-distance hiking trail stretching 850 km across the Pyrenees. It begins in Hendaye on the Atlantic coast and ends in Banyuls-sur-Mer on the Mediterranean. Along the way, you’ll pass deep valleys, mountain lakes, and charming villages.
The route was established in the 1960s as part of France’s GR trail system, designed to connect the country’s most scenic areas. The Pyrenees have historically been a borderland between France and Spain, and hikers can experience both Basque and Catalan culture along the way.
We provide detailed route descriptions, maps, and materials so you can hike independently with confidence. Accommodation ranges from hotels to dormitories in more remote areas.
Tour du Mont Blanc
The Mont Blanc massif, with its impressive height of 4,807 meters above sea level, is the highest mountain in Western Europe and has attracted adventurers for centuries. This classic hiking route takes you through France, Italy, and Switzerland, offering a variety of landscapes – from French glaciers to Swiss valleys and Italy’s steep rock faces.
On this trip, your luggage is transferred between accommodations, so you only need to carry a daypack. You can choose to stay in traditional mountain huts or upgrade to comfortable hotels and guesthouses.
Germany
Malerweg
The Artists’ Trail in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains
The Malerweg is a historic hiking route in Germany, famous for having inspired renowned artists such as Caspar David Friedrich and Carl Gustav Carus. Stretching over approximately 70 kilometers through the scenic Saxon Switzerland region – which, despite its name, is still in Germany – the trail offers dramatic rock formations, deep gorges, and spectacular viewpoints.
The route dates back to the 19th century, when artists walked here in search of inspiration. Along the way, you can discover highlights such as the Kleinhennersdorfer Caves and the staged Lichtenhain Waterfall. In 2017, the Malerweg was named Germany’s most beautiful hiking trail, offering unforgettable natural experiences for hikers of all levels.
E5 Hiking
High-Alpine Hiking on the Legendary E5
The E5 is a popular long-distance hiking route stretching from Oberstdorf in Germany to Merano in Italy. Established in 1972, it is often referred to as “the most beautiful crossing of the Alps”. Along the way, hikers cross three countries and experience spectacular scenery with glaciers, deep valleys, and magnificent mountain passes.
Originally used by merchants and smugglers, the E5 has a fascinating history. Today, it is one of the Alps’ most celebrated trails, leading through the rolling green hills of the Allgäu, the towering alpine peaks of Tyrol, and the picturesque Passeiertal Valley, before arriving in Merano – a charming spa town with proud traditions.
Spain
GR221
Spectacular Hiking in Mallorca
The GR221, also known in Spanish as Gran Recorrido 221, is a long-distance hiking trail on Mallorca spanning 11 stages through the Tramuntana Mountains. This historic route follows old paths once used by farmers and traders. Along the way, you’ll pass charming villages such as Deià and Sóller, as well as lush olive groves and citrus orchards.
Covering 150 km from Port d’Andratx to Pollença, the trail offers breathtaking views over the Mediterranean. The Tramuntana Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage site, ensuring scenery you will never forget. Hiking the GR221 combines Mallorca’s stunning nature with a taste of the island’s rich history and laid-back lifestyle.
The Camino de Santiago
The Camino de Santiago stretches across Spain, Portugal, and France and is one of the world’s most iconic walking routes – perhaps the most famous of them all.
Pilgrimage along the Camino is the best-known walking journey in the world, attracting nearly 500,000 visitors each year. The Camino consists of several different routes, each starting in a different country. The most famous is the French Way (Camino Francés), beginning in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France. In recent years, the Portuguese Way (Camino Portugués) has also become incredibly popular.
If you’d like an overview of the different routes, we recommend reading our in-depth guide to the Camino de Santiago.
Portugal
Fisherman's Trail - Rota Vicentina
The Fisherman’s Trail is part of the Rota Vicentina and is considered one of the most beautiful coastal walking routes in the world. The trail follows Portugal’s wild Atlantic coast from Vila Nova de Milfontes to Sagres, offering dramatic cliffs, untouched beaches, and picturesque fishing villages.
Originally, the path was used by local fishermen navigating along the cliff edges to find the best fishing spots. Today, it attracts walkers from all over the world who wish to experience the unique blend of rugged nature and cultural heritage along Portugal’s southwest coast.
Italy
Via Francigena
Vandring ad Via Francigena
The Via Francigena is a historic pilgrimage route stretching from Canterbury in southern England all the way to Rome. The section through Tuscany and Lazio is particularly renowned for its scenic landscapes and rich cultural heritage. In Tuscany, you’ll experience the iconic Val d’Orcia with its rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval towns such as Siena, Montalcino, and San Gimignano. The landscape has changed very little over the centuries, offering a true sense of walking through history.
In Lazio, the route passes through the Etruscan region of Tuscia, known for its volcanic scenery and historic landmarks such as the amphitheatre of Sutri. The route ends in Rome, where ancient roads and medieval paths converge in the Eternal City. We offer four different sections, so you can choose the one that suits you best.
Nepal
Mera Peak
Climbing Mera Peak
Mera Peak is one of Nepal’s most popular trekking summits, famous for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas’ highest mountains, including Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. The route takes you through the Hinku Valley, an area once used by local traders. Along the way, you’ll pass through traditional Nepalese villages and lush forested areas, allowing time for proper acclimatisation.
Although the climb does not require technical mountaineering skills, it is physically demanding due to the altitude, which reaches 6,470 metres. Mera Peak was first summited in 1953 by a British expedition, the same year as the first successful ascent of Everest. It’s a thrilling challenge for adventurous trekkers.
Island Peak
Summit via Everest Base Camp and Gokyo
Island Peak, standing at 6,186 metres, is a popular trekking summit in Nepal offering spectacular views of the Himalayas. The route passes through the Khumbu region, home to the Sherpa people, and takes you via Namche Bazaar and Sagarmatha National Park. Along the way, you can visit iconic locations such as Everest Base Camp and the Gokyo Lakes.
Also known as Imja Tse, Island Peak was first climbed in 1953 as a training ascent for the legendary Everest expedition. The journey combines challenging trekking with rich cultural encounters and panoramic views of peaks such as Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam.
Use our app on the tour
On our self-guided walking and cycling holidays, you will have access to our Bering Travel App, which can be used as a GPS during your trip, making it easy for you to navigate the routes.
More information
Some of Europe’s most iconic hiking routes attract tens of thousands of adventurous travellers each year. At the very top of the list is the world-famous Camino de Santiago in Spain, which in 2024 was completed by over 446,000 pilgrims.
Europe’s most popular hiking routes
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Hadrian’s Wall (England)
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Coast to Coast (England)
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Cumbria Way (England)
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Cotswold Way (England)
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The Wicklow Way (Ireland)
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Dingle Way (Ireland)
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West Highland Way (Scotland)
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Great Glen Way (Scotland)
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Malerweg (Germany)
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Jakobsvejen (Austria)
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Via Alpina – Bear Trek (Switzerland)
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Via Engiadina (Switzerland)
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Via Spluga (Switzerland/Italy)
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E5 – High Alpine Route (Germany/Austria/Italy)
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Tour du Mont Blanc (France/Italy/Switzerland)
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GR10 (France)
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GR20 (Corsica, France)
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Via Francigena (Italy)
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Camino (Spain/Portugal/France)
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GR221 – Ruta de Pedra en Sec (Mallorca, Spain)
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Fisherman’s Trail – Rota Vicentina (Portugal)
Famous trails outside Europe & Nepal
While Europe overflows with legendary paths, some of the world’s most spectacular and iconic hiking routes can be found further afield — from Patagonia’s dramatic mountains to the USA’s long-distance trails and New Zealand’s volcanic landscapes.
Appalachian Trail (USA)
One of the world’s longest and most iconic hiking trails, stretching over 3,500 km from Georgia to Maine. The route passes through 14 states and offers mountains, forests, and remote wilderness. It is famous for its strong “thru-hiker” community and the shelters found along the way.
Pacific Crest Trail (USA)
Runs all the way from the Mexican border to Canada through California, Oregon, and Washington. The landscape shifts between desert, mountain ranges, and forests, and the trail is physically demanding. It became world-famous through Cheryl Strayed’s book and the film Wild.
John Muir Trail (USA)
A 340 km section through the Sierra Nevada with spectacular scenery — including Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks. The terrain is alpine, with breathtaking views over mountain lakes and snow-covered peaks. Perfect for those who want to experience some of the best of the PCT in a shorter time.
Overland Track (Australia)
Runs through Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park in Tasmania and is about 65 km long. The trail is known for its temperate rainforest environment, dramatic mountain landscapes, and unique wildlife. It is one of Australia’s most well-organised and protected routes.
Bibbulmun Track (Australia)
One of the world’s longest dedicated hiking trails, covering over 1,000 km from Perth to Albany in southwestern Australia. The route winds through eucalyptus forests, coastal landscapes, and charming small towns. Suitable for both day hikes and longer expeditions.
Milford Track (New Zealand)
Often called “the finest walk in the world”, this 53.5 km trail runs through Fiordland National Park and ends at the iconic Milford Sound. Waterfalls, alpine passes, and lush rainforest characterise the journey. Numbers of hikers are limited to protect the environment.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing (New Zealand)
An intense one-day hike of 19.4 km through active volcanic terrain — known from The Lord of the Rings as “Mount Doom”. The route offers dramatic colours, steaming craters, and emerald-green lakes. It is both physically demanding and unforgettable.
Torres del Paine “W” Trek (Chile, Patagonia)
A 4–5 day route in one of the world’s most raw and breathtaking landscapes. You’ll pass blue glaciers, granite towers, and turquoise lakes in southern Patagonia. The weather can change suddenly, but that’s part of the experience.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (Peru)
A historic pilgrimage route of about 43 km through the Andes, passing ancient Inca sites and impressive mountain passes. It ends at sunrise at Machu Picchu — one of the world’s most iconic hiking finales. Permits are required and limited.
Drakensberg Grand Traverse (South Africa/Lesotho)
A challenging route through the dramatic Drakensberg mountain range. The trek covers over 200 km and requires both navigation skills and good physical fitness. The reward is wild views, solitude, and the experience of one of Africa’s most spectacular mountain regions.
FAQ about walking holiday
We drive your luggage
On our Camino tours, we want you to be able to focus on enjoying the nature and experiences along the way, without worrying about your luggage. That’s why we offer luggage transport, making your walking holiday even more comfortable and hassle-free – so you can enjoy it to the fullest. Let us take care of the logistics, allowing you to focus on discovering new horizons, experiencing the beauty of nature, and creating memories for life. You are always welcome to contact us if you have further questions about the luggage transport or to find information about it for each trip.
"We look forward to making your holiday dreams come true"
