The 5 Most Scenic Hiking Trails in Western Europe
If you are planning a hiking trip to Western Europe, then you are sure to get some amazing views as well as memorable experiences while hiking the trails. The beauty is all over, whether you are in France, Ireland, Italy or the Netherlands. In this article, we are going to show you the most scenic and beautiful hiking trails that you can find in Western Europe.
Wildnis Trail in Belgium
The Wildnis, or Wilderness, Trail has three valleys that you will see as you hike through the wilderness. The Rur, Urftsee and Ober Valleys provide a back drop on your hike as you trail through forests, bays and other beautiful aspects of nature.
Besides the streams, forests, and meadows, you will find that this trail has 4 stages that are between 18 and 25 km each. There are several highlights along the way on each stage which includes enjoying the courtyards at the gate of the national park. You will see areas of wild herbs and daffodils, which make for some great photos.
You will also stroll past the Fire Tower in Wolfgarten, Eifel View Modenhubel, Monastery MAriawald and more. There is certainly a lot to see along the routes!
Tour du Mont Blanc in France
Tour du Mont Blanc in France is one of the most famous hiking trails around the world. Located in the Alps, you have 7 valleys that are astounding to see, as well as the mountains, which are the highest in Western Europe.
The weather can be unpredictable, so you will want to bring a dry bag to keep valuable items dry. This can include your cell phone, tablet, or anything electronics. Having a dry bag will ensure you have a way to communicate if you need to because your valuables are safe.
The mountain scenery, Lac Blanc Lake, and daring cliffs are just some things that draw people to this area. You can take the Tour du Mont Blanc from France, through Italy and Switzerland if you want to hike the whole thing!
You will pass by pastures of cows with their herders, see cheeses being made, beautiful vistas and meadows, and more. Don’t pass this hike up!
Hare’s Gap in Ireland
Located in the Mournes Mountain range, Hare’s Gap is a beautiful mountain pass that used to be used for smuggling goods. Now, it is a starting point to branch off into different routes along the mountain range.
Heading uphill you will see the Trassey River along with Spellack mountain cliffs. You will see glaciers here where the area is very steep. Many rock climbers love this area because of the perfect conditions for climbing. After this area, you will see the Slievenaglogh and Slieve Meelmore peaks.
You will know when you are at the Slieve Bearnagh because of the incredibly beautiful scenery along with rock slabs, crags, and a quarry. During this hike, you will see granite pillars farms and more! Be sure to check out the Mourne Wall, which is made of granite. It passes through 15 mountains, which is amazing!
Nationaal Park Veluwezoom in the Netherlands
You don’t just have to hike at the Nationaal Park Veluwezoom! You can mountain bike or ride a horse, too! When you start your ascent, you will climb the Posbank which is a hill that offers a lot as far as scenery. There are many homes and farms along the way, with historical sites as well!
If you come here in the fall, you can expect to be in the midst of the mating season for red deer. The males will roar at the does to try and mate, which is interesting, to say the least. You may also see some wild boar!
Did you know that this national park is the oldest national park in the Netherlands? It is lush with forests, heath land, cattle and more. Keep an eye out for the rare pine marten, which is a small and furry animal that is related to the badger, weasel, and mink. While here, visit the Vereniging Natuurmonumenten which is the largest nature conservatory in the Netherlands!
Sella Herbetet Traverse in Italy
The Sella Herbetet peak is just one in a group of peaks called the Gran Paradiso Group. This peak, in particular, is absolutely stunning, even though some of the other peaks are higher up. This peak is not very visible from the valley and it can’t be seen from Valsavarenche peak or the Valle di Cogne peak.
The best view of this pyramid shaped peak is on the other side of Valnontey. You can see the long ridge that attaches to the Herbetet Traverse and will take you to Bonney, Punta Budden, and other peaks. There are 4 glaciers here and the Traverse is still covered with ice and snow from the glaciers. Be sure to check out all 4 as they offer stunning views!
Keep in mind that this is a pretty demanding hike through the Alps, and it is only one part of the Alps as well. It can take about 10 hours to hike this entire Traverse that takes you through an old mule trail, past homes and hunting lodges, and even the park rangers base. While hiking, you will see not only big peaks and glaciers but the ibex and chamois grazing in the grass, as well as taking a peek at some marmots.
You will want to hike this Traverse on a clear day as any bad weather can cause errors on the hike. You want to be confident in your footing on this trail!
Conclusion
If you were not sure before, we hope you are now, that hiking in the western part of Europe is something that you will remember forever. The beauty of the different countries is like nothing you have ever seen. Are you ready to plan your trip, now? Pack your bags and get your hiking gear ready!
Rebecca lives in the USA, but loves hiking all over the world. Her favorite is Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal. It usually takes 16 days, but she likes to slow down, enjoy mountains, the company of other adventurers and take more pictures, so it took her 28 days last time. Another of her passion is the ocean, so all short and long hikes along the ocean shore bring a lot of joy. She also writes for HikingMastery.com.
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