On top of the world: little-known mountain routes in Europe

Albina Panchenko News20.09.2024 08:41

Mountain resorts

The off-season is the perfect time for hiking. Morning mists, songs around the campfire, mushroom meadows - what else can you dream of in the fall? We have collected for you the top European destinations where you can fully experience this atmosphere. Read below to find out where to go.

Laugavegur, Iceland

One of the most famous hiking routes in the country. It stretches through a variety of landscapes: from volcanic mountains to glacial valleys. The 54-kilometer path passes through Vatnajökull National Park.

The route starts near the geothermal springs of Landmannalaugar and ends in the picturesque Thórsmörk Valley. The journey takes several days (approximately 2 to 4) and includes overnight stays in shelters. The most popular accommodations: Hrafntinnusker, Alftavatn, Hvanngil, Emstrur.

By the way, there are specially designated places in Iceland where you can pitch a tent. However, keep in mind that it must be protected from wind and rain. The weather in the country is very capricious. You should also know that a river flows through this area, so take trekking poles with you.

On top of the world: little-known mountain routes in Europe

Fimmvörðuháls, Iceland

One of the most popular tourist routes in the country, 20.3 kilometers long. On average, the journey takes up to 8 hours.

It runs between the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers. It starts near the famous Skógafoss waterfall and passes through a variety of landscapes: from volcanic formations to green valleys.

Tourists often choose this destination to see the aftermath of the Eyjafjallajökull volcanic eruption that occurred in 2010. There is a mountain shelter at the top of Fimmvörðuháls. It is worth stopping here and admiring the beauty of untouched nature.

On the way down to the Thórsmörk Valley, you will pass through 26 waterfalls, so bring the appropriate equipment, including hiking poles.

Edelweiss (Höhbalmen), Switzerland

The route is 20.3 kilometers long. It can be completed in 7-9 hours. It is suitable for both experienced hikers and beginners.

The whole way travelers are accompanied by incredible views. The nature here is really fabulous and special. The road passes through the Trift Glacier, the Matterhorn peak, and one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Zermatt.

Ehrwald - Coburger Hütte, Austria

The route stretches for 24 kilometers. It will take 8 to 9 hours to complete it. The route starts with a cable car ride to an altitude of 1490 meters.

Here travelers will be able to see two beautiful alpine lakes, Seebensee and Drachensee. The final stop is the Coburger Hütte. It is usually open from June to early October.

Le Val Ferret - Les Ars Dessus, Italy

It stretches for 25.7 kilometers and is characterized by a rather high difficulty. Therefore, it is better not to choose it for beginners.

The hike starts in Val Ferret and goes to the Elena shelter at an altitude of over 2055 meters. Next, you need to reach the top of the Grand Col Ferret, and then to the arrival point of Les Ars Dessous.

Melide - O Pino, Spain

The hiking route lasts more than 10-12 hours. Its length reaches 34 kilometers. By the way, the trail is part of the French Way, a popular pilgrimage destination to Santiago de Compostela, where, according to legend, the remains of the Apostle James are kept. This road is also popular with cycling enthusiasts.

Five Polish Ponds Valley, Poland

One of the most famous tourist destinations in the Polish Tatra Mountains. The journey starts from the Palenica Białczanska parking lot. The beginning of the road is asphalted, and then, after the Mickiewicz Falls, steep slopes begin. The trail also passes through a pine forest, where raspberries are sometimes found.

There are two ways to get to the end point: the black or green routes. The first one is characterized by steep serpentines, the second one passes by the Siklawa Falls.