THEHiking continues to win over travelers looking for authentic, sustainable experiences immersed in nature. From great Alpine crossings to coastal paths overlooking the ocean, Time Out selected some of the most spectacular treks on the planetamong iconic landscapes and itineraries that are still little traveled.
1. French Way, Camino de Santiago, France – Spain
The most famous stretch of the Camino de Santiago crosses northern Spain between villages, vineyards and historic cities such as León and Pamplona. An ideal spiritual and cultural journey between spring and early autumn.
2. Ruta de Cares, Spain
In the heart of the Picos de Europa, this trail follows deep gorges and spectacular rock faces. Bridges, tunnels and dizzying views make it one of the most scenic treks in Spain.
3. Great Ocean Walk, Australia
From Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles, the route passes through wild beaches, forests and windswept cliffs. Along the way it is not uncommon to spot koalas and wallabies.
4. Jordan Trail, Jordan
An itinerary that crosses deserts, canyons and Bedouin villages up to the Red Sea. Petra and Wadi Rum are among the symbolic stages of this long Middle Eastern journey.
5. Kalalau Trail, Hawaii
On Kauai’s Nā Pali Coast, the trail winds past tropical cliffs, waterfalls and secluded beaches. A challenging trek but among the most spectacular in the Pacific.
6. GR-131, La Gomera
The route crosses the Canary island between foggy forests, volcanic gorges and wild landscapes. An intense trek, far from the most tourist routes.
7. The Lycian Way, Türkiye
Between Fethiye and Antalya, this historic coastal path combines ancient ruins, olive groves and Mediterranean villages. October is the ideal time to travel it.
8. West Highland Way, Scotland
The great Scottish classic crosses lochs, moors and valleys to Fort William. Among the most iconic spots is the spectacular Devil’s Staircase.
9. Kumano Kodo, Japan
Ancient pilgrimage on the Kii peninsula, among sanctuaries, cedar forests and thermal springs. A spiritual itinerary immersed in Japanese nature.
10. Kungsleden, Sweden
The “King’s Path” crosses Swedish Lapland between tundra, glacial valleys and remote mountains. Known for the midnight sun and the Northern Lights.
11. Mount Snowdon, Wales
Wales’ highest peak offers scenic trails between lakes and glacial valleys. The Pyg Track is one of the most popular routes for hikers.
12. Dientes de Navarino, Chile
In Chilean Patagonia, this remote trek passes through extreme and rarely visited landscapes. It is considered one of the most southern circuits in the world.
13. Gotemba Trail, Mount Fuji
Among the routes that lead to the top of Mount Fuji, Gotemba is one of the most evocative. Arriving at the summit at dawn is part of the experience.
14. Waitukubuli National Trail, Dominica
Rainforests, waterfalls and Caribbean villages accompany this itinerary through the “Nature Island”. A trek immersed in tropical biodiversity.
15. Whale Trail, South Africa
In the De Hoop reserve, the coastal path offers spectacular whale watching between June and November. The landscape alternates dunes, cliffs and ocean.
16. Wales Coast Path, Wales
The first path in the world to follow the entire coast of a country, it crosses beaches, headlands and medieval castles over 1,400 kilometers long.
17. Mount Meru, Tanzania
Less famous than Kilimanjaro but equally spectacular, Meru passes through Arusha National Park among forests and African wildlife.
18. Rätikon High Trail, Austria and Switzerland
Between Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein, the route passes through alpine pastures, lakes and mountain refuges with typically Alpine panoramas.
19. Coast to Coast Path, England
The trail connects the Irish Sea to the North Sea through villages, moorland and three English national parks.
20. Maria Island Walk, Australia
In Tasmania, this trek passes white beaches and natural areas populated by wombats, wallabies and other iconic Australian species.
21. Paria Canyon, United States
A spectacular itinerary in the American southwest among red rock canyons, fords and walls sculpted by water. A challenging but memorable trek.
22. Tour of Mont Blanc, France-Italy-Switzerland
One of the great classics of Alpine hiking, the route circles Mont Blanc, crossing glaciers, panoramic passes and mountain villages.
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