Top Five Treks in Western Europe Under 200 km
Western Europe is great for long treks because they’re often never far from civilization. While this may not be good for
some, it’s ideal for those that want to explore nature as well as stumble across charming, old villages and interesting
cultures. Below are five of the best options for treks under 200km.
Camino de Santiago from Sarria
The Camino de Santiago from Sarria is a 114 km route, making it ideal for a 7 or 8-day trek. This popular path goes
through many Galician villages and World Heritage Sites, as well as having spiritual undertones.
Recent upgrades include better signage and more places to stay. The trek starts in Sarria, which is very medieval, and
ends at the famous cathedral in Santiago de Compostela. By using a company like Orbis Ways, you can have your
accommodation, route and luggage taken care of for you.
Tour du Mont Blanc
The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is around the same length (170 km), but is instead a loop around Europe’s highest
mountain. This peak also happens to be where France, Italy and Switzerland meet.
This well-known trek usually takes 11 days because of its ascents, but it’s nothing that an intermediate cannot tackle. It
of course has stunning alpine views, from glaciers to meadows, and has seen recent improvements to its trail to make it
safer. Key spots include Col de la Seigne and Rifugio Elisabetta, but bear in mind there are elevation changes of 1,000 to
1,500 meters per day. So, it’s not for total beginners.
West Highland Way
The West Highland Way is a 154 km trail and is considered to be Scotland’s top hike. It heads to Fort William from
Milngavie and is another 7-8 day trek that Orbis Ways serves. It’s also a chance to see the Scottish Highlands at their
absolute best.
Loch Lomond and Ben Nevis will be seen, along with Buachaille Etive Mor and Rannoch Moor. There are many places to
stay because you pass through villages, but wild camping is very much on the table too.
Corfu Trail
Putting aside the fact that Greece is in southeastern Europe, this hike had to be included because the Corfu Trail is
relatively overlooked. It covers 181 km across the Greek island and takes around 9 days to hike this coast at an average
pace. Despite the island being historic, the trail was only created in 2001. It passes through everything you imagine a
Greek island might: olive groves, beaches, traditional villages…
This trail is great for beginners because it’s relatively flat and has a nice climate (outside of mid-summer). There’s great
food and various historical sites you will pass.
The Vindios Loop in the Picos de Europa
The Vindios Loop is a short but tough 57 km hike in Spain's Picos de Europa National Park. This is ideal for those
wanting a 4-day adventure over a long weekend. This trail is known for its limestone peaks and thick forests, but there
are some incredible wildlife to be aware of, such as brown bears and Iberian wolves.
Lakes and churches will be seen, but it’s a very wild experience besides that. It has steep climbs and requires some
technical skills, so it’s a trail suited to experienced hikers.
Final Word
These five trails can all be undertaken in around a week-long trip, yet all have something different to offer – not only the
landscapes but the history and cuisine, too.
