(CNN) — A slower approach to travel is more important than ever. From overtourism to multiple flights, rushing from point A to point B is not only stressful, but can have a negative impact on the environment. That's why sometimes when traveling we need to go back to the basics: boots, backpack and map.
A relaxing multi-day hike along one of Europe's most long-distance trails provides the opportunity to reconnect with the world, get some invigorating exercise and enjoy some peaceful moments in some of the continent's most beautiful scenery.
Hysna trail, Sweden
The quiet beauty of western Sweden is the star of this 25-mile (40-kilometer) two-day hike. The circular route starts at the 12th-century Hüsna Church and can be reached in just 40 minutes by bus from Gothenburg.
The trail passes through towering beech forests and offers the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in Lake Rila Halsjön, which has its own swimming spot. This route is well-marked and has plenty of picnic spots and well-equipped campsites. For those who want something a little more luxurious, Hisna Forest Resort is the place to go. His five-star cabin here features a private outdoor shower, large windows, and a king-sized bed.
Karfunkieros trail, Finland
Finnish Lapland is famous as a winter destination and has magical scenery. aurora and fascinating antiquity Sami people culture. It is also home to Finland's most famous long-distance walk, the 82-kilometer (51-mile) Karfunkieros Trail.
This route is best in summer when the nights are bright and the forest is lush and green. The road starts from the village of Houtajärvi in Salla, Lapland and ends at Rukatunturi Waterfall in Kuusamo. It takes 4 days depending on the weather which can change rapidly. Passing through Oulanka National Park, you'll feel like you're in the great outdoors, with trout jumping from the rivers and lynx and wolverines wandering among the pines.
Charles III Coastal Path, England
Spanning 4,300 kilometers (2,672 miles), the England Coast Path, named after the King from 2022, is the work of a lifetime for those who want to roam every step of the way. The good news is that it can easily be divided into sections to explore the Northwest, Northeast, East, Southeast, and Southwest regions.
Whether you're admiring the rugged cliffs and beautiful bays of Cornwall, or the vast skies and deep silence of Suffolk and Norfolk, a few days of walking this spectacular route will leave everyone rejuvenated.
Slovenian Mountain Trail, Slovenia
It's no wonder that the Slovenian mountain trail has become so popular. This spectacular route stretches for approximately 616 kilometers (362 miles) from Maribor in the northeast of the country to Ankaran on the Adriatic coast. It may seem extreme to do it all at once over 28 days, but you can also break it up into smaller sections.
Routes take you through the forests and native wetlands of the Pohorje Hills and across the Julian Alps, many of which form part of the beautiful Triglav National Park. There are 49 different mountain huts to choose from, and if you choose to complete the entire trek, you'll be climbing around 23 mountains in the process.
John Muir Way, Scotland
Known as America's “Father of National Parks,” Muir's passion for the outdoors led to the founding of the Sierra Club, perhaps the most important environmental organization in the United States, and secured conservation status for Yosemite Valley.
The United States is not alone in mourning Muir. In his native Scotland, the John Muir Way stretches from coast to coast, from Helensburgh on the Firth of Clyde to Muir's birthplace of Dunbar on the Firth of Forth. The 215-kilometre (134-mile) route passes through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, passing through some of Scotland's most idyllic and underrated countryside, and takes around 10 days to complete. .
Vikos Valley and Mount Gamira, Zagoria, Greece
The secluded and beautiful mountains of Zagoria are perhaps Greece's best kept secret. Tucked away in the northwestern part of the country, this park offers great hiking without the crowds. The highlight is definitely the Vikos Gorge. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, this canyon is the deepest canyon in the world relative to its width.
In some places, the cliffs soar 1,350 meters (4,429 feet) high. In summer, stroll along the dry riverbed and keep an eye out for rare wild chamois bouncing over the cliffs. Trekking Hellas offers his 3-day trek that includes the canyon and the opportunity to head to the mountain refuge of nearby Mount Gamila.
Apuseni mountains, Romania
Part of the vast Carpathians, the pristine Apuseni Mountains in western Romania offer a glimpse of a part of Europe where time still moves slowly and a way of life steeped in tradition is alive and well.
Hiking through majestic hills and endless forests, you'll spot peregrine falcons circling on thermals above, while tracks of wolves and European brown bears mark the presence of some of the continent's most elusive creatures. Match Better Adventures runs his four-day snowshoe trek through the region in the winter. Guests stay with a Romanian family and receive a proper local welcome.
Camino Francis, France and Spain
The Camino de Santiago is Europe's most famous pilgrimage route, ending in Santiago de Compostela in the Galicia region of northwest Spain. This is where the body of St. James the Apostle is said to be buried. Traditionally, pilgrims made their way here from their homes from all over Europe, but hikers now have multiple ways to walk the Camino, either across Spain or from Portugal or France. I did.
The Camino Frances is the most popular route, starting from Saint-Jean, France and ending in Santiago via Pamplona and Leon. The entire journey takes him seven weeks, but his last 100 kilometers from Sarria can be completed in about six to seven days.
Alta Via Uno, Dolomites, Italy
The Italian Dolomites are one of the continent's most rugged and awe-inspiring mountain ranges. Those up for the challenge can hike the 120-kilometer (75-mile) excursion from Dobbiaco in the north to Belluno in the south over his nine days.
The route climbs over rocky outcroppings as jagged, snow-capped peaks rise all around you. The area's friendly mountain huts offer a place to rest for the night and recuperate before a tough day in the hills.
It's worth your time to wander around Passo Falzarego, where a battle took place during World War I. Some sections have cables installed to help pedestrians traverse the rugged terrain. Trekkers need to be in good physical condition, but it's an unforgettable experience.
Engadin Panorama Trail, Switzerland
For those who love to lace up their boots and go on adventures, summer in Switzerland is a dream come true. Warm temperatures, wildflower meadows, and looming Alps make it the perfect place to escape from everyday life.
While many routes head into the mountains, the Engadin Panorama Trail is more gentle and perfect for beginners or those interested in something less strenuous. The 55-kilometre (34-mile) route through the southeast of the country starts in Cernez, passing traditional villages and glistening lakes, with stunning Alpine views at every turn. Ibex are often seen climbing on well-marked trails.
Tour du Mont Blanc, France, Italy, Switzerland
Few multi-day hikes in Europe capture the imagination as much as the Tour du Mont Blanc. This epic 11-day course of his takes him around the highest mountains in Western Europe, covering 170 kilometers (105 miles) in three of his countries: France, Italy and Switzerland. .
The good news is that the situation is very well organized, with regular watering holes and shelters every few miles. But don't visit thinking you can lie down and spend the night after a long day of walking. During the busy summer months, huts and shelters must be booked in advance.
Hike counterclockwise from the village of Les Houches for uninterrupted views of Mont Blanc. Tour du Mont Blanc Hike offers a bespoke guide to help you get the most out of your trip.
Rota Vicentina Fisherman's Trail, Portugal
Rota Vicentina, a network of day and multi-day trails in southern Portugal's Alentejo and Algarve regions, is often overlooked in search of central European mountain thrills. But the Fisherman's Trail, a 225-kilometer (140-mile) trail along the Atlantic coastline, offers a wild and memorable alternative.
Following the route used by fishermen to get to the sea, the trail follows sandy paths and over high cliffs, with walkers battling wind and weather changes as they make their way. The reward comes in the form of deep blue waters, vast vistas, and the feeling of being invigorated by the sea air.
Laugavegur hiking trail, Iceland
Inaccessible during the winter, Iceland's magical Laugavegur hiking trail is open from July to September and attracts avid hikers from all over the world. reason? The landscape is unlike any other on earth. Formed by glaciers and the country's constant volcanic activity, this place can't help but feel absolutely infinitely small.
The 55-kilometer (34-mile) route is best completed over four days, giving you time to tackle difficult terrain and enjoy the scenery. Highlights include bathing in the geothermal springs of Landmannalaugar, admiring the colorful slopes of Brännijsteinsarda, and walking over the lush valleys of Hvangir.
Six private huts and an adjacent campsite are available, but the roads can get busy so you'll need to book in advance or take our advice and sign up for a guided adventure. Mutetter Adventures has a variety of options.
Sheep's Head Way, Cork, Ireland
Ireland has no shortage of lush, windswept scenery. And few can match Cork's 93km (57 mile route) Sheep's Head Way. This route passes through some of the most dramatic coastline in the county and the country.
Depart from the town of Bantry and head to the Sheeps Head Peninsula and its famous lighthouse, taking in views from the roaring deep blue Atlantic Ocean to the Beara and Mizen peninsulas. The route itself takes him six days, but if the weather gets a little rough, you have the option of shortening it or opting for a less strenuous day hike. That happens a lot in this magical part of the world.
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