Trekking Europe has become our favorite pastime. Each year, we’re on a mission to hike more and write about all our favorite trails.
In this guide, I’ve compiled all our favorite multi-day treks in Europe, ranging from 3 to 10 days. The majority of these European hiking trails are hut to hut, which means you’ll overnight in mountain huts along the way.
Most round-ups of top treks in Europe include GR20, E5 European long-distance hiking trail, Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB), Walker’s Haute Route (Chamonix to Zermatt), Camino De Santiago Trail, and the Alta Via 1. In contrast, our collection ventures far off the beaten path, highlighting some of Europe’s most underrated and lesser-known hiking trails, reflecting our love for quieter, more adventurous routes.
We have integrated the popular Tour du Mont Blanc and Alta Via 1 treks into our guide as a technical difficulty reference.
The following European treks are ranked easy to challenging. If you’re planning a weekend hiking getaway, also read 2-day hikes in Europe, which included unforgettable hikes in Picos de Europa National Park and the Uri Alps of Switzerland. If you’re trying to identify family-friendly hut-to-hut hikes, consult hut-to-hut hiking with kids. And for day hiking adventures, take a look at Best Day Hikes in Europe.
- When to Trek in Europe: The best time to embark on multi-day treks in the Alps and Nordic Europe is between end of June/early July and eary/mid September. The best time to hike around the Mediterranean and Southern Europe is in spring (March – May) and fall (Late September – Early November).
- When to Book Treks in Europe: This varies depending on the popularity of the trek. If you want to hike the world-famous Tour du Mont Blanc, or Alta Via 1, it’s best to book these routes 6-8 months in advance. If you want to book a lesser-known trail, it’s usually possible to book a few months in advance (or even a few weeks in advance).
- Hut to Hut Hiking versus Wild Camping: Wild camping is strictly forbidden in many places in Europe. So, the only way to hike long distances in certain countries (e.g. Austria and Slovenia) is to embark on a hut to hut hike.
1. Rota Vicentina Fisherman’s Trail, Portugal
The original Rota Vicentina Fisherman’s Trail is a 4-day trek along Portugal’s wild and undeveloped Vicentina Coast. The trail starts in Porto Covo in Alentejo and ends in Odeceixe in the Algarve.
Clinging to the coast almost the whole time, this thrilling multi-day hike gives you access to some of Portugal’s most remote beaches and cliffside villages.
Though camping in designated camping areas is possible, it’s not recommended. Most hikers will overnight in guesthouses and hostels along the route in the towns of Vila Nova de Milfontes, Almograve, Zambujeira do Mar, and Odeceixe.
If you’re just getting into multi-day hiking (and you’re ambivalent about shared rooms and rustic facilities), this is a perfect place to start. You don’t have to sacrifice comfort in the name of adventure. You get both. And, you can even get your luggage transferred between destinations.
If you want to integrate this trek into a longer trip to Portugal, read our 2-week Portugal itinerary (no car needed).
Fisherman’s Trail Stats
Starting Point | Porto Covo. Stay in MUTE (budget), Ahoy Porto Covo Hostel (budget), Calmaria Guest House (midrange), or Porto Covo Praia Hotel & SPA (luxury).
Ending Point | Odeceixe. Stay in Bohemian Antique Guesthouse (budget), Casa Luar (budget), Monte do Cardal (midrange-luxury), AL-Odeceixe Verde (midrange), or Casas Do Moinho (luxury).
Duration | 4 Days
Distance | 75 km point-to-point
Difficulty | Easy – Moderate
When to Hike | Spring (April, May), or Fall (October, November)
Accommodation | Hostels, or Guesthouses. Camping is possible in designated camping areas.
Insider Tip | Make a reservation for dinner at Tasca do Celso before you arrive in Vila Nova de Milfontes.
Learn More: Rota Vicentina Fisherman’s Trail
2. High Tatras Hut-to-Hut Hike, Slovakia
The High Tatras are the highest mountain range in the Carpathian Mountains, stretching from Northern Slovakia into Southern Poland.
We hiked 4-days on the Slovakian side, starting in Tatranská Kotlina village and ending in Strbske pleso. We loved the alpine lakes, the cozy mountain huts, and the collective spirit on the trail.
Hikers – mostly Slovaks and Czechs – greet with a genuine smile and a cheerful Ahoj or Dobrý deň. We felt comfortable, welcome, and at ease every day of our trek.
We especially relished the food, specifically the Halušky s bryndzou (potato dumplings with sheep cheese) and Buchty na pare (sweet steamed buns).
High Tatras Trek Stats
Where to Stay Before/After Trek | Penzion Atrium in Poprad
Starting Point | Tatranska Kotlina
Ending Point | Štrbské Pleso
Duration | 4 Days
Distance | 55 km point-to-point
Difficulty | Easy – Moderate
When to Hike | Mid-June – End of October. We recommend late June, September, or early October.
Accommodation | Mountain Huts. Camping is forbidden.
Insider Tip | Eat Ovocné gule (fruit balls with berries) at the Zamkovského chata mountain hut.
Recommended Self-Guided Hiking Tour Operator | Our self-guided hut-to-hut hike was planned and organized by TravelSlovakia.Sk.
Learn More: Trekking in the High Tatras, Slovakia
3. Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hut to Hut Hike, Dolomites, Italy
This 3-day hut-to-hut hike in the Sexten Dolomites in Northern Italy expands on the popular Tre Cime di Lavaredo circuit trail.
Instead of driving directly to the famous three peaks, you’ll approach Tre Cime di Lavaredo from Val Fiscalina/Fischleintal valley, a picturesque side valley of Sexten in Hochpustertal (Alta Pusteria).
On day one, the trail leads through Fischleintal Valley and further up Val Sasso Vecchio (Altensteintal in German) to reach Dreizinnenhütte, the mountain hut facing the northern side of the Three Peaks. If Dreizinnenhütte is fully booked, you can also stay in the nearby Rifugio Lavaredo.
On the second day, the trail wraps around the Three Peaks, passing Rifugio Lavaredo and Rifugio Auronzo along the way. From Rifugio Auronzo, don’t miss the impressive detour to the famous Cadini di Misurina viewpoint. The trail returns to Dreizinnenhütte and then ascends to Büllelejochhütte, the highest refuge in the Sexten Dolomites. This charming hut is one of the most beloved in the Alps, frequently featured on the covers of hiking magazines.
The final day is a straightforward descent to Val Fiscalina via Zsigmondyhütte.
We hiked this route during our first trip to the Dolomites. Read our 1-week Dolomites itinerary to see how we integrated this 3-day trek into a 7-day road trip.
Three Peaks Trek Stats
Where to Stay Before/After the Trek | B&B Grüne Laterne – Lanterna Verde, Residence Königswarte, or Aparthotel Gamz in Sexten
Starting Point/Ending Point | Val Fiscalina/Fischleintal, Sesto/Sexten
Duration | 3 Days
Distance | 27 km circuit
Difficulty | Easy – Moderate
When to Hike | Late June – Late September
Accommodation | Mountain Huts. Camping is forbidden.
Learn More: Trekking Tre Cime di Lavaredo
4. Alta Via 1, Dolomites, Italy
The Alta Via 1 (aka Dolomiten Höhenweg 1) is an easy long-distance hiking trail in the Italian Dolomites, starting at Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee) in South Tyrol and ending at the La Pissa bus stop near Belluno.
This 120-km-long Dolomites high route is hiked north to south and generally broken up into 10 stages. Many hikers will hike the north route (4 stages), or the south route (6 stages).
AV1 Trail Stats
Starting Point | Lago di Braies
Ending Point | Belluno (La Pissa bus stop)
Duration | 10 Days
Distance | 120 km point-to-point
Difficulty | Easy – Moderate
When to Hike | July, August, September
Accommodation | Mountain Huts. Camping is forbidden.
Insider Tip | Book Rifugios 6-9 months in advance (October – January). Get more tips in our Dolomites hut to hut hiking guide.
Recommended Self-Guided Hiking Tour Operator | Alpenventures UNGUIDED. Check out their slow-paced 13-Day AV1-13 Alta Via 1 Self Guided, moderately-paced 10-Day AV1-10 Alta Via 1 Self Guided, fast-paced AV1-7 Alta Via 1 Self Guided, and their short 4-Day AV1-4 Alta Via 1 Self Guided. They book all accommodations for you along the trail and you get to hike independently.
Learn More: Alta Via 1 Hiking Guide
5. Tour du Mont Blanc, France, Italy and Switzerland
The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is a spectacular multi-day hike that circuits the Mont Blanc massif in usually 10-11 days covering a total distance of 170 km (105 miles).
Traditionally, the Tour du Mont Blanc hike starts in Chamonix, France (Haute-Savoie).The trail circuits the Mont Blanc range counterclockwise, passing through Italy (Aosta Valley) and Switzerland (Valais) as well, before returning to France (Haute-Savoie).
The Tour du Mont Blanc is not a hut-to-hut hike, though it’s possible to overnight in some mountain huts along the way. The trail crosses from one valley to another via high mountain saddles. Many TMB stages end in villages, where there are hotels, inns, and even apartments. During our trek, we stayed in 2 hotels, 2 gîtes (privately-owned, hostel-like accommodation), 3 mountain huts, 1 alpage (mountain pasture hut), and 1 apartment.
The TMB is a great introduction to multi-day hiking in the Alps. Though certainly a serious undertaking, the Tour du Mont Blanc largely follows easy-moderate, smooth, well-graded trails. If you’re new to long distance hiking in the mountains, then the Tour du Mont Blanc is an ideal place to start.
Due to the popularity of the TMB, it’s important to start booking accommodations along the trail as early as August – December, the year before. The easiest way to book the Tour du Mont Blanc is with a trustworthy self-guided hiking tour operator. These companies design a TMB itinerary for you based on your preferences and priorities and book all your accommodations (and most of your meals) along the trail. Additionally, they provide maps, trekking guides with trail descriptions, and other perks as well.
We booked this 10 Day Standard Tour du Mont Blanc Self Guided (private and shared rooms) with Alpenventures UNGUIDED and had a seamless experience.
You can read more about our trek in our Complete Guide to Hiking the TMB.
TMB Trail Stats
Starting Point/Ending Point | Chamonix. Stay in Chalet Hôtel Le Prieuré, Hôtel de L’Arve, Heliopic Hotel & Spa, or Alpina Eclectic Hotel & Spa Chamonix.
Duration | 10 – 11 Days
Distance | 170 km circuit
Difficulty | Moderate. For us, the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) was more challenging than the Emperor’s Crown and Rätikon High Trail routes in Austria, because of the long daily distances and the length of the tour. However, most people find that the Austrian treks are far more technical, and therefore more demanding.
When to Hike | July, August, early September
Accommodation | Mountain Huts, Hotels, Gîtes
6. Emperor’s Crown Trail, Austria
The Emperor’s Crown (Kaiserkrone) is a 5 stage hiking trail which circuits the Wilder Kaiser massif in Tirol, Austria. Unlike most of the Austrian hiking routes described in this post, the Emperor’s Crown isn’t high-alpine. The trail leads hikers largely through forests and across alpine pastures.
The 65-km trail traditionally starts at Aschingerkapelle, Going (Hüttling). However, if you’re traveling by transit, it’s far easier to start the route in Kufstein, which has direct train connections to Vienna, Innsbruck, and Salzburg.
This is a really enjoyable hike with lots of variation in terms of scenery and terrain. You’ll stay overnight in two exceptional mountain huts (Gruttenhütte and Stripsenjochhaus) and two guesthouses (in Gasteig and Hintersteiner See lake) along the way.
This is a perfect route for anyone new to multi-day hiking in Austria.
Though this is a relatively easy-moderate hike by Austrian standards, it still involves some technical hiking (e.g. secured trails / no special equipment needed).
Kaiserkrone Trail Stats
Starting Point/Ending Point | Kufstein. Stay in Hotel Kufsteinerhof (midrange), or Boutique Hotel im Auracher Löchl (luxury) in Kufstein.
Duration | 5 Days
Distance | 65 km circuit
Difficulty | Moderate
When to Hike | June – Early October
Accommodation | Mountain Huts and Guesthouses
Tip | Learn basic German hiking vocab to navigate trails and read trail signs.
Learn More: Emperor’s Crown Trek
7. Rätikon Alps High Trail Circuit, Austria and Switzerland
The Rätikon Alps are part of the Central Eastern Alps and form part of the natural border between Vorarlberg, Austria, and Graubünden, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.
This range romances hikers with its shimmering limestone peaks, verdant slopes, active alpine pastures, and mountain lakes. It’s like a waking dreamland, almost too beautiful to be real.
Our Rätikon Alp 4-day trekking itinerary follows the Rätikon Höhenweg Nord (North Rätikon High Trail) in Vorarlberg, Austria and the Prättigauer Höhenweg (Prättigau High Trail) in Graubünden, Switzerland. You’ll stay overnight in one Austrian mountain hut and two Swiss mountain huts.
The first 3 days are easy-moderate. The final day is considerably more challenging. Stage 4 leads steeply from Schesaplanahütte to Schesaplana (T3 demanding hiking trail), the highest peak in the Rätikon Alps, and descends across rugged, difficult terrain to Lünersee. The final stage is especially difficult, if there’s lingering snow.
If you’re not comfortable hiking stage 4, you can follow a 3-day variation of the route.
Rätikon Alps Trek Stats
Where to Stay Before/After Trek | Pension Bergkristall (midrange), Hotel Lün (midrange), or Aktiv-Hotel Sarotla (luxury) in Brand.
Starting Point/Ending Point | Lünersee, Vorarlberg
Duration | 3 – 4 Days
Distance | 45 km circuit
Difficulty | Moderate
When to Hike | July, August, September
Accommodation | Mountain Huts. Camping is forbidden.
Insider Tip | Eat homemade Apfelstrudel at Totalphütte on the last day of this trek.
Learn More: Rätikon Alps High Trail
8. Liechtenstein Panorama Trail, Liechtenstein
The Liechtenstein Panorama Trail (Liechtenstein Panoramaweg in German), aka Route 66, is a 42-47 km hiking trail in the Rätikon Alps in the Principality of Liechtenstein.
Wedged between Austria and Switzerland, Liechtenstein is one of the 8 alpine states of Europe and the world’s sixth-smallest nation.
The Liechtenstein Panorama Trail is a spine-tracing alpine path, which follows the Rätikon ridge that divides the Rhine Valley from Saminatal Valley and later Valünatal Valley. It’s an exciting, well-secured path with a great deal of variance: forest trails, meadow crossings, and alpine ridge paths.
This moderately difficult mountain hike takes 3-4 days to complete.
You can start the hike in either Ruggell (or Planken), or Malbun. We started the trek in the village of Planken, staying at Gafadura Hut, Hotel Turna Malbun, and Pfälzer Hut along the way.
Despite being relatively short, this is an extremely memorable hike in the Alps. If you’re looking for something a bit off-the-beaten-path, consider trekking Route 66 in Liechtenstein.
Liechtenstein Panoramaweg Trail Stats
Starting Point | Ruggell (or Planken)
Ending Point | Malbun. We loved staying at Hotel Turna Malbun. Other options include Hotel & Falknerei Galina and Vögeli Alpenhotel Malbun.
Duration | 3-4 Days
Distance | 42-47 km
Difficulty | Moderately Difficult
When to Hike | Late June – Late September (mid-October), depending on snow conditions.
Accommodation | Mountain Huts and Hotels
Insider Tip | Hike to Naafkopf peak for sunrise after staying the night in Pfälzerhütte.
Learn More: Liechtenstein Panorama Trail Hiking Guide
9. Ortler High Mountain Trail, Italy
The 120 km Ortler High Mountain Trail is a strenuous 7-day trek in South Tyrol and Lombardy in Northern Italy. This circular trekking route circumnavigates the Ortler Group, starting and ending in Stelvio Pass.
Named after the highest mountain in the Eastern Alps, Mount Ortler, the Ortler Group thrills with its many glaciers, towering mountains, narrow valleys and gorges, and bearded vultures.
What surprised us most about the Ortler High Mountain Trail was the lack of foot traffic along the route. We were alone 95% of the time. If you’re seeking solitude in nature, definitely consider this Northern Italian trek.
This trail requires a high level of fitness, given the long stages and the hefty elevation gain/loss required each day. Logistically, you also have to plan ahead. Stage 4 requires the assistance of a certified hiking guide to safely cross a glacier.
For those that want to take in the highlights of the Ortler High Mountain Trail without the glacier crossing, check out our modified Ortler High Mountain Trail Trekking Guide. This softer route is only 3 days (5 days with arrival and departure).
Ortler Höhenweg Trail Stats
Starting Point | Stilfser Joch. We stayed in Hotel Bella Vista in Trafoi before starting the trek.
Our Ending Point | We stayed in Hintermartell at Hotel Burgaunerhof.
Duration | 7 Days. We did a 3-day modified trek.
Distance | 120 km circuit
Difficulty | Difficult
When to Hike | July, August, September
Accommodation | Mountain Huts and Hotels. Camping is forbidden.
10. Alpstein High Trail, Switzerland
The Alpstein is a dramatic limestone massif in the Appenzell Alps in northeastern Switzerland. This U-shaped hiking route runs along the high trails of the Alpstein mountains, starting in Wasserauen and ending in Hoher Kasten, Brülisau.
This adventurous high trail strings together the most iconic landscapes and attractions in Appenzellerland including Lake Seealpsee, the Aescher mountain inn, Ebenalp, the Schäfler mountain inn, the Schäfler ridge, the Altenalp Towers, Mount Säntis, Lisengrat ridge, the Rotsteinpass mountain inn, the Zwinglipass Hut, the Saxer Lücke saddle, the Kreuzberge viewpoints, Staubern mountain inn, and the Hoher Kasten summit.
Exclusively following white-red-white trails, this alpine hike is a great option for surefooted, fit mountain hikers who enjoy ridge paths and limestone terrain (uneven surface, scree, loose rocks, etc…).
If you’re eager to explore the Appenzell Alps on a longer hut-to-hut hiking tour, check out the Swiss Whiskey Trek (moderate), 8-Day Hut to Hut in Appenzell Alps Standard Itinerary (moderate), an 6-Day Hut to Hut in Appenzell Alps Active Itinerary (difficult).
Alpstein Trek Stats
Where to Stay Before/After Trek | Alte Metzg – Hostel (budget), Blattenheimat (midrange), Hotel B&B Stossplatz (midrange), or Hotel Appenzell (luxury) in Appenzell village.
Starting Point | Wasserauen
Ending Point | Hoher Kasten, Brülisau
Duration | 3 Days
Distance | 33.5 km point-to-point
Difficulty | Moderately Difficult
When to Hike | June – October
Accommodation | Mountain Huts
Learn More: Alpstein High Trail
11. Montafon Hut-to-Hut Circuit, Austria
The Montafon hut-to-hut circuit (Montafoner Hüttenrunde) is a 13-stage hiking trail that traverses the mountain ranges around Montafon Valley in Vorarlberg.
With soaring 3000+ meter glaciated peaks, verdant river valleys, and idyllic alpine pastures, there’s something truly classic and quintessential about this European trek.
We hiked 5-stages of the route, starting at the Silvretta Bielerhöhe mountain pass (accessible by bus from Schruns) and ending in Latschau (Tschagguns).
If you’re new to hut to hut hiking in Austria, read our comprehensive Austria hut to hut hiking guide.
Trail Stats
Where to Stay Before/After the Trek | TUI Blue Montafon (budget), Gasthof Löwen (midrange), or Amrai Suites (luxury) in Schruns-Tschagguns
Starting Point | Silbertal, Montafon
Ending Point | Tschagguns-Latschau, Montafon
Duration | 13 stages which can be hiked in 11 days
Distance | 133 km u-shaped circuit
Difficulty | Moderate
When to Hike | July, August, September
Accommodation | Mountain Huts. Camping is forbidden.
Learn More: Montafon Hut-to-Hut Hiking Guide
12. Venediger High Trail, Austria
The Venediger High Trail (Venediger Höhenweg) is a multi-day trek through the Venediger Group in Austria’s Hohe Tauern National Park.
This East Tyrolean hut to hut hike partially wraps around Grossvenediger, Austria’s second-largest mountain, delivering views of mammoth mountains, melting glaciers, and countless waterfalls.
The scenery is impressive in a vast and bleak type of way. On some stages, it feels like you’re hiking into the heart of Mordor. On other days, you feel like you’re hiking on the spine of a dragon.
Trail Stats
Where to Stay Before/After the Trek | Gästehaus Obwexer (budget), Haus Wibmer Matrei (budget), AlpenParks Hotel Montana (midrange), or Wander- und Naturhotel Outside (luxury) in Matrei in Osttirol
Starting Point | Virgental Valley
Ending Point | Matreier Tauernhaus in Gschlöß Valley
Duration | 6 Days
Distance | 56 km point-to-point
Difficulty | Moderately-Difficult / Difficult
When to Hike | July – mid-September
Accommodation | Mountain Huts
Learn More: Venediger High Trail Hiking Guide
13. Rosengarten Catinaccio Traverse, Dolomites, Italy
This 3-day trek across the Catinaccio/Rosengarten range takes in the stunning Vajolet Towers, the Santner Klettersteig (optional), and some of the most picturesque mountain huts in the Dolomites in northeastern Italy.
We’d label this trek as moderate (moderately difficult depending on experience), though it certainly encompasses some very easy stretches.
Each day is on the shorter side, so you have ample time to take breaks and savor the views along the way. You can also make this a 2-day trek, with one overnight in the Tierser Alpl Hut.
Rosengarten Trek Stats
Starting Point | Carezza/Karersee. Stay in Sporthotel Passo Carezza (midrange), or Hotel Alpenrose (where we stayed) in Carezza
Ending Point | Passo Sella/Sella Pass. Stay in Hotel Garni Morene (budget), or Linder Cycling Hotel (luxury) in Selva in Val Gardena.
Duration | 2-3 Days
Distance | 26 km point-to-point
Difficulty | Moderate
When to Hike | Mid-June – Mid-October (weather depending)
Accommodation | Mountain Huts. Camping is forbidden.
Insider Tip | Opt for half board at Rifugio Alpe di Tires/Tierser Alpl.
Learn More: Rosengarten Dolomites Traverse
14. Karwendel High Trail, Austria
The Karwendel High Trail in Tyrol is one of the best hut-to-hut hikes in the Austrian Alps.
Each mountain hut (Hütte) along this route impressed us with their hospitality, cuisine (especially Pfeishütte, Solsteinhaus, and Nördlinger Hütte), and overall organization and communication. These huts are the crème de la crème of Tirol.
In 6-days, hikers will conquer 63 km and 7000 meters of elevation gain/loss. You’ll walk along rivers, in forests, to peak summits, on balcony trails, and across mountain slopes.
The alpine views and wildlife sightings are consistently sublime. Walls of limestone tower above narrow forested valleys. Families of chamois gallop down slopes of scree. And, distant alpine ranges – Stubai Alps, Zillertal Alps, and the Wetterstein Mountains – entice you from afar.
When evaluating where we’ll take our friends on a hut-to-hut route, the Karwendel High Trail is always one of our top choices.
Karwendel Höhenweg Trail Stats
Where to Stay Before/After the Trek | Lifestylehotel dasMAX (budget), Princess Bergfrieden (midrange-luxury), Summit Seefeld (midrange-luxury) in Seefeld in Tirol
Starting Point | Scharnitz
Ending Point | Seefeld in Tirol
Duration | 6 Days
Distance | 63 km u-shaped circuit
Difficulty | Difficult
When to Hike | July, August, September
Accommodation | Mountain Huts
Learn More: Karwendel High Trail
15. Schladminger Tauern High Trail, Austria
The Schladminger Tauern mountains are a subrange of the Austrian Central Alps and are located in the states of Salzburg and Styria (Steiermark).
Virtually unknown to anyone outside of the German-speaking world, this secret European hiking destination shouldn’t be overlooked.
There are two compelling reasons why you should hike the 5-day Schladminger Tauern High Trail. First, alpine lakes. Along the Schladminger Höhenweg, you’ll pass numerous pristine alpine lakes including Giglachseen and Landwirseen.
The most impressive water-abundant destination along the route is Klafferkessel, a cirque containing more than 30 lakes.
Second, cuisine. The food in the mountain huts is DELICIOUS, especially at Keinprechtshütte and Preintalerhütte.
Trail Stats
Starting Point/Ending Point | Schladming. Stay in TUI BLUE Schladming (budget-midrange), or Stadthotel Brunner (luxury) in Schladming.
Duration | 5 Days
Distance | 45 km circuit
Difficulty | Difficult
When to Hike | July, August, September
Accommodation | Mountain Huts. Camping is forbidden.
Insider Tip | Order Kaiserschmarrn at Keinprechtshütte.
Learn more: Schladminger Tauern High Trail
16. Mount Triglav Trek, Julian Alps, Slovenia
Mount Triglav (2864 m) is the reigning symbol of Slovenia and of the Julian Alps.
Emblazoned on the national flag, the three-headed mountain serves as true north, orienting Slovenians to their mountains and forests.
There are many ascent routes to Mount Triglav: Krma Valley, Vrata Valley, Lake Bohinj, Seven Lakes Valley, and Pokljuka. No matter where you start, the final stretch to the summit entails climbing a via ferrata route.
We hiked the Pokljuka – Mount Triglav route, a 2-day hike with an overnight in Dom Planika pod Triglavom.
The most frequently asked question we get is: can you recommend a guide for climbing Mount Triglav? Yes, we can. I recommend booking the guided 3-Day Best of the Julian Alps Hut-to-Hut with the Mount Triglav add-on (via ferrata equipment is provided). The local hiking tour operator Slotrips leads this hiking tour every Monday from July to September. This is a great option for solo hikers as well as friend groups and couples.
The benefit of this tour is that the standard route bypasses the summit of Triglav. So, if you’re traveling with someone who wants to experience a hut-to-hut hike in Slovenia, but not necessarily a via ferrata summit climb, they don’t have to.
Starting Point/Ending Point | Rudno Polje, Pokljuka. Stay in Hotel Center Pokljuka (midrange), or Hotel Pokljuka (midrange).
Duration | 2 Days, or 3-Days if you book Best of the Julian Alps.
Distance | 26 km out-and-back
Difficulty | Difficult
When to Hike | Late June/early July – September
Accommodation | Dom Planika pod Triglavom
17. Triglav National Park Traverse, Slovenia
Triglav National Park is the largest protected area in Slovenia and encompasses a huge chunk of the Julian Alps (Julijske Alpe). The park’s name is derived from the highest mountain in Slovenia, Mount Triglav (2864 m).
Most hiking trails in Slovenia are LONG (e.g. Slovenia Mountain Trail, Juliana Trail) and require weeks to complete. So, we created this custom 4-day hut to hut hike that highlights the best of the Julian Alps in a condensed period of time.
You’ll see the high alpine plateau of Kriških podih, Mount Triglav, the Seven Lakes Valley, Luknja pass and the fairy tale pasture around Planini pri Jezeru.
Though the length of the trail isn’t very long, the terrain is challenging at times and requires some scrambling and a head for heights.
In Slovenia, the line between “hiking” and “mountaineering” is somewhat blurred. In fact, hiking in Slovenia is more adventurous and challenging than anywhere else we’ve hiked in Europe.
If you’re interested in experiencing the rugged beauty of the Slovenian Alps, but would prefer a guided adventure, check out this 8-day Discover the Slovenian Alps small group hiking tour by Slotrips, an excellent Slovenian hiking tour operator. This guided hiking trip combines a 3-day hut-to-hut hike with several day hikes.
For more information about trekking in Slovenia, read our Slovenia Hut to Hut Hiking Guide.
Learn More: Triglav National Park Trek
Triglav National Park Trek Stats
Starting Point | Vršič Pass, Kranjska Gora
Ending Point | Lake Bohinj
Duration | 4 Days
Distance | 45 km point-to-point
Difficulty | Difficult
When to Hike | July, August, September
Accommodation | Mountain Huts. Camping is forbidden.
Insider Tip | Look for Edelweiss around Kriških podih, but remember picking wildflowers is illegal.
How to Book The Triglav National Park Traverse
You can book this trek across the Julian Alps independently. All the huts are bookable online.
However, there are many benefits to booking this 7-day self-guided Crossing the Julian Alps hiking tour with Slotrips. It solves a lot of problems that people have when planning this point-to-point route: getting to the trailhead, extra luggage transfer (to the last night, not during the trek), and the option to climb Mount Triglav with a certified guide.
We know what people struggle with, because we’ve answered hundreds of emails about planning this trek over the years.
This self-guided hiking adventure follows the same exact route as our traverse, but starts in Planica, thus adding one more day to the trek. It included 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Ljubljana, before the trek starts, and 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Bled, at the end of the trek.
If you book this tour, you’ll get a transfer from Ljubljana to the starting point. Also, your extra luggage will be transferred from Ljubljana to Bled, so you don’t have to worry about finding a place to store your extra travel luggage.
One of the most compelling reasons to book the Crossing the Julian Alps trek is that you can add on the Mount Triglav summit with a IFMGA licensed mountain guide, who will also bring you all necessary via ferrata equipment.
18. Berlin High Trail, Austria
The Berlin High Trail (Berliner Höhenweg in German) showcases the best of the Zillertal Alps in Tirol, Austria. It’s an unforgettable adventure replete with challenging ascents and descents, rustic and grand mountain huts, and unforgettable glacier and lake views.
This high-alpine route takes 8 days, though you can easily customize the route for shorter periods of time.
From the spellbinding views of the Schlegeisspeicher reservoir to the wine collection at Olpererhütte, this Austrian hut to hut hike is like no other.
This trail is best undertaken by experienced hikers, as there are some difficult secured passages along the route and some demanding descents (slippery and exposed). No special equipment is needed.
Trail Stats
Starting Point/Ending Point | Mayrhofen. Stay in Landhotel Rauchenwalderhof (budget), Der Siegeler B&B (budget-midrange), or Alpenhotel Kramerwirt (midrange).
Duration | 8 Days
Distance | 86 km u-shaped circuit
Difficulty | Difficult
When to Hike | July – mid-September
Accommodation | Mountain Huts. Camping is forbidden.
Insider Tip | Try to reserve a private room at Greizer Hütte, because the Lager (dormitory) is incredibly tight.
Learn More: Berlin High Trail
19. Kamnik-Savinja Alps Trek, Slovenia
Even less known than the Julian Alps, the Kamnik-Savinja Alps are one of Central Europe’s best-kept secrets.
This 4-day hut-to-hut hike across the Kamnik Alps is for intrepid hikers who crave something adventurous and altogether quite challenging. High alpine hiking experience is an absolute must, as this is a no-bullshit trek.
Much of the route is secured and exposed.
If you want to take in the beauty of the Kamnik -Savinja mountains from a less precarious position, head to the divinely beautiful Logar Valley.
Trail Stats
Starting Point | Kamniška Bistrica. Stay in Dom v Kamniški Bistrici, or Guest House Kraljev Hrib in Kamniška Bistrica.
Ending Point | Zgornje Jezerkso. Stay in Cvet gora, or Tourist farm Šenkova domačija in Zgornje Jezersko.
Duration | 4 Days
Distance | 25 km point-to-point
Difficulty | Challenging / Experts Only
When to Hike | July, August, September
Accommodation | Mountain Huts. Camping is forbidden.
Insider Tip | Wear a helmet and a light backpack. We recommend the Osprey Kyte 36 (for women) and the Osprey Kestrel 38 (for men).
Learn More: Kamnik Savinja Alps Trek
20. Eagle Walk Lechtal Alps, Austria
The Eagle Walk (Adlerweg in German) is a long-distance hut-to-hut hiking trail that traverses the Austrian State of Tirol in 33 stages (413 km), from East to West.
The most challenging and possibly the most rewarding stretch of the Adlerweg are the stages in the Lechtal Alps (stages 19-24), the longest range of the Northern Limestone Alps.
Highly experienced alpine hikers should consider this spectacular 6-day trek in Austria.
Trail Stats
Starting Point | Boden
Ending Point | St. Christoph am Arlberg
Duration | 6 Days
Distance | 57 km point-to-point
Difficulty | Very Challenging
When to Hike | July, August, September
Accommodation | Mountain Huts
Learn More: Hiking the Eagle Walk across the Lechtal Alps
Europe Trekking Gear
Read our hut-to-hut hiking packing list to find out what to pack for multi-day hut treks.
Hiking Gear
- Hut-to-Hut Hiking Backpack: Osprey Kyte 36 (for women) and Osprey Kestrel 38 (for men)
- Grade B/C Hiking Boots: Meindl Schuhe Island Lady (Kati’s Boots), Women’s Hanwag Tatra II GTX (Sabrina’s Boots), Men’s Hanwag Tatra II GTX (men’s equivalent)
- Wool Hiking Socks: Smartwool women’s Performance Hike Full Cushion Crew / Smartwool Men Performance Hike Full Cushion Crew
- CAT 4 Sunglasses: Julbo Shield Mountain Sunglasses
- Hiking Poles: Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles
- Climbing Gloves: Black Diamond Half Finger Gloves
Overnight Essentials
- Sleeping Bag Liner: Sea to Summit Silk-Cotton Blend Travel and Sleeping Bag Liner
- Waterproof Slippers: Crocs
- Headlamp: Black Diamond Equipment Spot 350 Headlamp
Photography Gear
- Camera Body: Sony Alpha a6400
- Mid-range Zoom Lens: Tamron 17-70mm 2.8 Di III-A VC RXD
- Wide angle Zoom Lens: Sony – E 10-18mm F4 OSS Wide-angle Zoom Lens
- Backpack Camera Clip: Peak Design Camera Clip
More Europe Hiking Trails
The Alps:
- Hiking in the Alps: Essential Tips
- Our Favorite Hikes in the Alps
- Best Hikes in Bavaria, Germany
- Best Hikes in Switzerland including 2-Day Stanserhorn-Engelberg Ridge Hike
Austria:
Italy:
Slovenia:
Spain:
More Hikes in Europe:
- Hiking in Calanques National Park, France
- Best Hikes in Brittany, Northern France
- Montenegro Hiking Guide
- Malta Hikes
- Best Hikes in Portugal
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These hikes all look incredible, especially the one in the Dolomites! Bookmarking for when I go to Europe next!
What an inspiring post. I’m specifically looking for new and interesting trails to check out as I travel across Europe and this post is super helpful! I just learned about the Juliana Trail so I love the idea of hiking a shorter piece of it if since I’m not able to do the whole thing this year.
I hiked parts of Rota Vicentina last year and really enjoyed my time there. Portugal is always a great choice for hiking and long walks along the beautiful coastline! Also happy to see a trail in Austria in this list!
Such a great post! I´m from Slovenia and I did most of those mentioned, but got some new inspiration for the Dolomites and Austria. Can´t wait for Spring 🙂
These are such good tips! We started hiking last summer with my boyfriend. So far only in Finland but we are hoping to expand to Europe. The vistas in these places are magnificent!
Thanks for giving me some more great hikes to add to my European travel wish list. I’m actually doing the Fisherman’s Trail this April but I’d love to do either of the Slovenia ones and also do some hiking in the Dolomites.
I love appreciating the different landscapes and nature on vacation. These are stunning! Thanks for sharing!
Great write up. I was lucky enough to do some hikes on a trip to Norway in 2019 which was absolutely stunning. Switzerland and Austria are looking like the next trails to explore. Time to save some more money… Thank you for sharing.
My sister and I shared dinner with these lovely trekkers at a refugio along the AltaVia 1 in 2019. I was super excited to come across their curated list of multi-day hikes as we’re hoping to resume our own adventures in 2022. They’ve saved me a lot of time and narrowed down the options. I know if it’s on their list they’ve personally hiked the miles and stayed in the huts they write about. Thanks ladies, I’ve found at least four trails from your list that deserve more intensive research!
Hi Barb,
So happy to reconnect. Have fun planning your next hiking trip in Europe.
-Sabrina
I finished the Tour du Mont Blanc in September and am hooked! Being from the Midwest/USA, the Alps scenery is amazing, and even beats the Rockies in my opinion. Just found your blog and am excited at the options you describe for alternative, less populous, multi-day trips. Thanks for pulling this together!
Mark
Hi Mark,
So glad you’re here. Yes, the Alps are dazzling. Have fun planning your next multi-day trek in Europe.
Kindly,
Sabrina