The best walks and hikes in the Alps

Embark on an easy hike around the stunning Eibsee Loop Trail, a picturesque route that offers continuous views of Lake Eibsee's crystal-clear waters and its charming small islands. This 4.4-mile (7.1 km) path is generally flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for most. You will gain a gentle 277 feet (84 metres) in elevation, and the entire loop typically takes around 1 hour and 54 minutes to complete. As you walk, you'll pass through dense forests, discover quiet bays, and cross wooden footbridges, with the majestic Zugspitze often reflecting beautifully on the lake's surface. Keep an eye out for the Kotbach Waterfall, adding to the trail's natural charm.

This easy loop is suitable for all fitness levels and families, providing a relaxed outdoor experience. You will find benches conveniently placed along the route for resting and enjoying the scenery. For refreshments, the Eibsee Hotel and Eibsee Pavilion restaurant are located at the start and end of the loop, offering a perfect spot to refuel. Consider visiting during the warmer months, from May to October, when you can also enjoy swimming and boating on the lake.

The Eibsee Loop Trail is renowned for its unique geological setting, nestled in the Wetterstein mountains. The lake itself is famous for its jewel-toned hues, which shift with the light, and the numerous small islands that dot its surface, creating a distinctive landscape. This trail stands out in the region for its combination of easy accessibility and dramatic alpine views, making it a popular choice for those seeking a tranquil yet visually rewarding outdoor adventure near Germany's highest peak.

Embark on the Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop, a moderate hiking route that immerses you in the dramatic scenery of the Dolomites. As you hike, you'll witness panoramic views of jagged limestone peaks and rugged valleys, with the iconic Three Peaks constantly changing their appearance. The trail offers a particularly striking perspective of their famous northern faces from Forcella Lavaredo. This well-defined loop covers 6.2 miles (10.0 km) and involves an elevation gain of 1101 feet (335 metres). Most hikers complete it in about 3 hours and 25 minutes, making it a rewarding half-day adventure. Along the way, you will pass several mountain huts, with Rifugio Locatelli offering a privileged viewpoint of the Tre Cime.

To plan your visit, consider that this trail is located within Tre Cime Natural Park. While specific details on trailhead access, parking, or permits are not provided here, it is always wise to check local regulations before you go. Ensure you are prepared for a moderate hike, bringing appropriate gear and sufficient water. Checking weather conditions beforehand is also recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

This route is considered one of the most popular trails for experiencing the Dolomites, drawing hikers from around the world. Its consistent dramatic scenery and the opportunity to see the iconic Three Peaks from multiple angles make it a standout. The geological formations of the jagged limestone peaks are a defining feature of the region, offering a unique natural environment to explore.

Embark on the Panorama tour around Puflatsch, a moderate hike spanning 5.5 miles (8.8 km) with an elevation gain of 1038 feet (316 metres), typically taking 2 hours and 42 minutes. This route guides you across wide alpine meadows and gentle hills, offering a constant 360-degree panorama of the Dolomites, including views of Val Gardena and the Schlern. You will encounter a mix of gravel, natural paths, and some paved sections, passing charming small wooden houses and, in summer, an abundance of wildflowers.

To begin your hike, head to Compatsch, the usual starting point for the Panorama tour. Keep in mind that private vehicle access to the plateau is restricted during certain hours, so you can reach Compatsch by the Seiser Alm Aerial Cableway or by bus. While there can be an initial steep ascent from Compatsch, you have the option to take the Telemix Puflatsch lift to bypass this section, making the rest of the trail relatively flat with occasional small climbs and descents.

This trail is celebrated for its unique features, including the mystical Witches' Benches (Hexenbänke), stone formations steeped in local folklore. You will also find the Engelsrast (Angel's Rest) viewing platform and Filln Cross, both offering outstanding vistas of the surrounding peaks. Along the way, you can stop at mountain huts like Tschötsch Alm or Arnika Hut for refreshments and to enjoy traditional Tyrolean cuisine amidst the stunning scenery.

Embark on a moderate hike through the Partnach Gorge, where you will navigate paths carved into sheer rock walls with the river rushing below. The trail then ascends, opening up to expansive alpine scenery and views of the surrounding peaks. This loop covers 4.0 miles (6.4 km) and involves an elevation gain of 617 feet (188 metres), typically completed in about 1 hour and 56 minutes.

Begin your journey from the Garmisch Olympia Ski Stadium, following the clear path towards the gorge entrance. Although the route through the gorge is well-maintained, it is essential to wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as sections can be wet and slippery. On the return leg via Graseck, you will find opportunities for refreshment at various mountain farms and hotels.

This trail showcases the impressive geological forces that shaped the Partnach Gorge, a significant natural landmark in the region. The experience offers a unique blend of dramatic, enclosed canyon landscapes and the contrasting open vistas of the Bavarian Alps.

Embark on an easy hike around Pragser Wildsee, a picturesque loop that takes you 2.5 miles (4.1 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 227 feet (69 metres). You can complete this scenic walk in about 1 hour and 8 minutes, enjoying the well-developed gravel path and occasional stone steps. The trail hugs the lake's edge, offering continuous views of its clear, green waters and the majestic Seekofel massif reflecting on the surface. As you hike, you'll find yourself moving between the shoreline and slightly elevated wooded sections, providing varied perspectives of this alpine gem.

Accessing the Pragser Wildsee loop is straightforward, with the trailhead conveniently located near the historic Hotel Lago di Braies. You will find information boards marking the start of your hike. Several parking areas, specifically P2, P3, and P4, are available for those arriving by car. Alternatively, public bus route 442 offers direct transport to the lake from nearby towns, making it accessible without a personal vehicle.

This iconic mountain lake is nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites, specifically in the Fanes-Senes-Braies natural park. The route is known for its pristine mountain scenery and the perfect reflections visible on the water, making it a popular destination for hikers worldwide. Along the way, you can find nice seating areas for picnics and sunny lawns to relax and take in the views.

Embark on the Bullaccia Loop Trail, a moderate hike that immerses you in the stunning Alpe di Siusi, part of the Italian Dolomites. This 4.5-mile (7.2 km) route features an elevation gain of 817 feet (249 metres) and typically takes about 2 hours and 13 minutes to complete. As you hike, you'll be treated to incredible 360-degree panoramic views of majestic peaks like Sciliar and Sassolungo, winding through vibrant alpine meadows.

Before you head out, it's always a good idea to check local conditions, especially regarding weather or any potential closures. You'll find several welcoming mountain huts along the way, such as the Dibaita – Puflatsch Hut, perfect for a refreshing break or a meal. The Bullaccia Loop Trail is generally considered family-friendly, making it a great option for a day out in nature.

This trail is notable for its unique porphyry rock formations, known locally as the Witches' Benches, which are steeped in fascinating folklore. These distinctive geological features offer a special place to rest and soak in the expansive views of the surrounding landscape. The route provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Sciliar-Catinaccio Nature Park.

Embark on Trail 215 to Lake Sorapis, a challenging hike that rewards your effort with stunning alpine scenery. This difficult route covers 6.9 miles (11.1 km) and involves a significant ascent of 1014 feet (309 metres), taking approximately 4 hours and 4 minutes to complete. You will traverse varied terrain, starting gently through meadows and pine forests before the path becomes rocky and exposed, featuring sections with metal stairs and fixed ropes as you approach the iconic Lake Sorapis.

Planning your visit requires good fitness and sure-footedness, especially for the exposed sections of the trail. Sturdy hiking shoes are essential, and some alpine experience is recommended due to the rocky terrain and fixed ropes. Remember that Lake Sorapis is only accessible on foot, which adds to its secluded charm and ensures a more pristine experience. Be prepared for a full day out, as the estimated duration is over four hours.

This hike leads you into the heart of the Parco Naturale delle Dolomiti d'Ampezzo, culminating at Lake Sorapis, renowned for its surreal, milky turquoise color. The lake's unique hue is framed dramatically by steep cliffs and the towering Punta Sorapis, making it a truly distinctive glacial lake. The effort to reach this natural wonder is well worth it, offering unparalleled views and a memorable experience in the Dolomites.

Embark on a moderate 7.3-mile (11.8 km) hike through the dramatic Höllentalklamm, also known as Hell Valley Gorge, a journey that takes around 4 hours and 43 minutes to complete. You will experience a significant elevation gain of 2061 feet (628 metres) as you navigate well-maintained walkways, wooden bridges, and rocky steps, with paths etched into the gorge walls. The Hammersbach river roars through deep ravines, creating numerous waterfalls and showcasing magnificent turquoise waters. You will pass through electrically lit tunnels and along narrow cliffside ledges, offering a constantly changing and adventurous landscape. After exiting the gorge, the path opens up to reveal panoramic views of the Wetterstein mountains, including the towering Zugspitze, Waxensteine, and Riffelwände, especially as you approach the Höllentalangerhütte.

This trail is generally considered medium-difficult, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness. Sturdy, non-slip hiking shoes are essential, as sections within the Höllentalklamm can be wet and slippery, especially after rain. The initial approach from Hammersbach is an easy gravel path, but the gorge itself involves rocky steps and narrow ledges. While not technically difficult, it is less suitable for families with small children under six years old. The cool, moist climate within the gorge offers a refreshing experience, particularly on hot summer days.

The Höllentalklamm offers an immersive and thrilling journey, characterized by its rugged passages and unique tunnels carved into the rock. The Höllentalangerhütte, a modern mountain hut renovated in 2015, provides food, drinks, and overnight stays in a fantastic location. This hut also serves as a crucial base for more challenging alpine climbs, including the famous Höllentalroute to Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain. The trail provides breathtaking views of the surrounding Bavarian Alps, culminating in the panoramic vistas from the hut.