Europe
The whole world in one pint-sized continent
Fly into Europe from more sparsely populated parts of the world and something odd happens on the in-flight map. Suddenly the world feels smaller, more compact, with place names jostling for space.
Just hours ago you were flying over the empty vastness of Canada or the Central Asian steppe. Now the map is criss-crossed with national borders and studded with evocatively-named capital cities. This is the cradle of western culture: where empires rose and fell, where turbulent, messy history unfolded to shape the world—often against its will.
But Europe is no museum: for every castle and cathedral there is a modern and diverse city, each with its own cultural scenes and distinct identity. And away from the towns and cities are majestic mountain ranges, remote villages in rural hinterlands, fairytale forests and glorious coastlines. It's a well worn travel writing trope but Europe, truly, has everything.
Geographically speaking, tiny Europe shouldn't really be considered a continent in its own right; more a minor appendage on the great Eurasian landmass. But try telling that to a 21-year-old with an InterRail ticket and a guidebook. When you can cross a dozen national borders in 24 hours and have to cope with accents, cuisines and traditions changing every 100 miles or so, you could spend a lifetime exploring Europe and never come close to seeing and revelling in all its wonderful complexity.
When you think of Europe you might feel like you've "been there and done it". We're willing to bet that you've barely scratched the surface. Take another look. Book your train tickets and hop on board. Europe—the real Europe—is just waiting to be discovered.
Hidden gems in Europe
Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Visit the vineyard of Val d'Iris
ExperienceLocated near Seillans, Val d’Iris owes its name to an ancient iris plantation for the Grasse perfumery. My family and I have been buying wine directly from this vineyard for years. Not only do they produce exceptional quality wine, but the people behind it are wonderful as well. The vineyard is run by a small team, and their wines are very reasonably priced – especially given the high quality and their commitment to sustainable production practices. Today, the vineyard spans 8.5 hectares, with excellent soil that is both stony and clayey. This unusual property is ideal for wine production as it allows the vines to soak up warmth, ensuring the grapes ripen perfectly, while also retaining enough water to withstand the long, dry Mediterranean summers. Val d'Iris follows sustainable practices, which means no weedkillers or insecticides are used. The soil is carefully maintained using mechanical methods, minimising disturbance. If you look closely, you might spot locusts, grasshoppers, praying mantises, and ladybirds thriving among the vines. Every decision in the vineyard is carefully considered from a sustainability perspective and the vineyard takes care to use products that are safe for both the micro-fauna and human health, avoiding any that pose carcinogenic risks. They also precisely calculate the lowest effective doses for treatments and adjust their equipment to ensure the most efficient and responsible use. Transparency is key at Val d'Iris, with every step of the process, from vineyard to cellar, being meticulously recorded. Consumers can trace the entire history of each bottle, including details about the grapes, cultivation methods, harvest dates, production processes, and even specifics like temperatures, yeasts, and ageing techniques. Harvesting at Val d'Iris is a careful and deliberate process. A team of about 12 pickers works the vineyard, but rather than harvesting all at once, they wait for each plot to reach its peak ripeness. This means the harvest is spread over nearly a month, ensuring that every grape is picked at its prime. All the grapes are hand-picked and transferred into harvest buckets, which are then carefully loaded into boxes on a tractor trailer. Within minutes, the tractor is driven to the cellar, where the grapes are unloaded by hand into the de-stemmer, separating the grapes from the stalks. And thus begins the meticulous winemaking process in the cellar. Visiting Val d'Iris Wine tasting at the vineyard is free, and they offer a small but carefully curated selection. The vineyard is open for visitors without appointment from 10am to 6pm Monday to Friday and 11am to 5pm Saturday. It's closed on Sunday. It's a five minute drive from Seillans, or you can walk there in less than an hour. Most of their wines are reds, with about five types to choose from, along with two whites and one rosé. The whites are distinctly different—one has a deep, intriguing flavour, while the other is much lighter. Their red wines tend to be full-bodied and spicy, but they've recently introduced a new summer red, designed to be enjoyed chilled. It’s light, fruity, and perfect for hot days—I can personally vouch for how delicious it is chilled! You’re welcome to explore the vineyards at your own pace, either before or after the tasting. When I last visited, we decided to walk around after the tasting, but with the summer sun blazing down on us, it might not have been the wisest choice! The vineyard is also home to some friendly cats and dogs, who are always happy to greet visitors.
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Gorges du Blavet day hike
ExperienceThis trail was one of the first hiking spots I discovered in the region. It’s located just south of our local village, Seillans, where the landscapes much more of a typical Provençal feel with an abundance of fresh thyme wafting through the air, countless streams of vineyards stretching along side the roads and up and down the rolling hills. The Blavet, a small river that flows through the hills of the Var, has carved its way through striking red volcanic rock formations. Over time, the water has shaped the landscape into something truly unique. Rich in iron, the cliffs, composed of volcanic porphyry-oxidize and take on a beautiful golden-red hue. Their jagged edges rise into the sky, changing colours with the hours of the day and the seasons. Sculpted slowly by water and wind, the rocks have formed strange and beautiful shapes. The surrounding vegetation, a mix of bushes and forest, blankets the valley floor, climbing the slopes, and clinging to the cliffs. The greenery comes in various shades, from light to dark, creating a rich contrast against the ever-present blue sky. From certain vantage points along the trail, you can even catch glimpses of the Mediterranean Sea. The hike begins with a walk through a forest, following the river, which leads to the striking red rock formations. Along the way, you’ll pass the 'Grotte du Mueron,’ a cave inhabited during the Bronze Age. With its large entrance and remarkably high ceiling, the cave holds traces of our ancestors dating back to 12,000 BC. Shortly after the cave, you’ll encounter a brief but steep climb to your first viewpoint, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and the Mediterranean Sea. After crossing a road, the trail continues through the quiet hills and forests of this peaceful region. A couple of hours in, you’ll reach a stunning viewpoint, an ideal spot to enjoy a snack or packed lunch while taking in the medieval hilltop villages in the distance. After lunch and soaking in the scenery, the route back tracks briefly before winding down along a trail that leads back to the car park. Need to know There are a few routes you can take from the trailhead. Here, you'll find an information board with the hikes labelled by difficulty level. This route is well marked and there is a map outlining the route in the car park. This hike is easily accessible by car. There is a car park with picnic benches and normally plenty of room to park you vehicle. I recommend wearing hiking shoes or boots, and bringing hiking poles for the steeper sections if that makes you feel more comfortable. Be sure to pack a windproof or waterproof jacket, it is highly unlikely it will rain and it may even feel quite warm in the middle of winter in the sunshine, but its better to be well prepared. Carry enough water, at least 2.5 litres in the summer months. This hike is accessible all year round. Be aware that if rainfall has been heavy in the region, especially towards the end of winter, the river can be quite full and might require you to cross on rocks or in the water itself. I find this quite fun, but please be careful as rocks can be slippery.
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Bauroux Mountain day hike (Crêtes du Bauroux)
ExperienceI absolutely love this mountain ridge hike. Located in the Parc des Préalpes d'Azur, the hike begins in the village of Séranon, right on the border between the Var and the Alpes Maritimes. This hiking trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes, and follows the famous RD 6085, or “route Napoléon,” named after the emperor, who stopped at the Château de Brondet in 1815. Heading west along the foot of the mountain and as you start your climb, you’ll reach Vieux-Séranon, where the ruins of a 12th-13th century fortified village are still visible. Take a quick left at this stage to climb up to a viewpoint with a detailed information stand about the wildlife, surrounding areas and Vieux-Séranon. The trail then leads through the woods on the northern slope, eventually taking you to the summit of Bauroux (1,644 meters). The 360° panoramic view from here is absolutely breathtaking, with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It’s the perfect spot to take a break, enjoy a packed lunch/snack, and breathe in the fresh mountain air. After lunch, you’ll descend along the eastern side of the ridge. The trail takes you to the quaint village of Caille, where I always enjoy pausing to appreciate the local charm and tranquility. Need to know This hike, along with others in the region, is easily accessible by car. After the hike, there are some fantastic authentic countryside restaurants to enjoy, but be prepared for limited vegetarian options. Though you might get a scowl at first, I’m sure they’ll accommodate your request! This region is home to many farmers and producers of honey, goat’s cheese, and of course, meat! This route is well signposted and there is a map outlining the route in the car park which you’ll find right next to the roundabout. Near the start of the trail, there’s a small storage cabinet where local producers sell honey. It operates on a trust-based exchange, so do bring some cash in case you’d like to buy some. While there are a few steep sections, they’re very manageable. I completed this hike with my 71-year-old mother, and we made excellent time! That said, she’s incredibly fit for her age. I recommend wearing hiking shoes or boots, and bringing hiking poles for the steeper sections if that makes you feel more comfortable. Be sure to pack a windproof or waterproof jacket, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly. During the hotter months, be sure to carry enough water, 2.5 litres at least. I’d avoid this hike between December and March, as snowfall can make it dangerous without the right gear.
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Pic de la Dona and Bastiments
ExperienceAs soon as the snow melts away (usually in the late spring) hikers replace the skiers in Vallter 2000 ski resorts. To enjoy some of the best views I recommend the trail that climbs first to Pic de la Dona (2,702m) and then traverses the ridge on the Spanish-French border before climbing Puig de Bastiments (2,881m). The trail then drops down to Coll de la Marrana from where you can even opt to climb the nearby Gra de Fajol (2,714m). But make sure that you save some energy to seek out the source of the River Ter before you descend back to the resort’s buildings.
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Camí de Carboneres
ExperienceThis popular trail from Setcases passes some wonderful waterfalls as you climb along the Carboner river. Don’t miss Copa de Cava (the name makes perfect sense when you see the waterfall) before the waymarked route veers away from the river and climbs higher. To enjoy further great views of the nearby mountains I like to extend the route by continuing to the small unmanned hut, Refugi Jaume Ferrer and then descending first through forest then grassy slopes with mountain views. After your hike allow some time to explore the narrow streets of Setcases, where you can try and buy some local products.
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Serra Cavallera ridge day hike
ExperienceI like to follow this route from Camprodon in the spring after the snow melts away but when the higher mountains in the Pyrenees are still snow capped. Not only that you can take good photos of the mountains from the ridge but you can traverse the meadows without having to worry about disturbing the cattle that usually spend the summer months grazing on the slopes. After a steep climb from Camprodon the route follows the ridge of Serra Cavallera mountain range and climbs Pedra dels Tres Bisbats (1,898m). The waymarks on the return leg are somehow inconsistent, so some navigation skills are essential.
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Pic de Finestrelles day hike
ExperienceFrom Vall de Núria most people climb Puigmal (2,910m) the highest mountain in the area but I like to take the path that winds its way up to the Pic de Finestrelles (2,827m) and then traverses the ridge that runs along the French-Spanish border. You will meet fewer people on this route and the peak of Finestrelles is only slightly lower than the nearby Puigmal and the views of the endless mountains are just stunning. Summertime is also the best time to take this route if you want to spot some playful marmots near the streams during the descent.
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Camí Vall de Núria day hike
ExperienceThe train journey between Queralbs and Vall de Núria is one you won’t forget but the most rewarding way to approach Vall de Núria is to follow this old path in the footsteps of pilgrims. However don’t expect solitude, this is a well trodden path and it can get busy especially on sunny summer days. If you leave from Queralbs before 8am it is then more likely that you won’t have to share the views for a while as many hikers opt for a train ride to Vall de Núria and then they descend the path back to the village in the afternoon. If you are planning to take the train back to Queralbs you have to pre book your tickets: www.valldenuria.cat
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Vall del Ter/Camprodon Valley
PlaceThe cooler mountain temperatures have always drawn people from the big cities, and the streets of Setcases and Camprodon are lined with some attractive summer houses. It can get especially busy during school holidays and weekends when people return to their holiday homes. There are several options to walk from Setcases, and my personal favourite is the extended version of the Camí de Carboneres that is perhaps best in the spring when the nearby Gra de Fajol is still snow capped. In the summer this hiking paradise offers almost endless possibilities to create a walk. Seek out the Source of the River Ter near the ski slopes in Vallter 2000 or climb Bastiments (2,881m) to enjoy the views of the sea of mountains. After a hike, I like to wander the narrow streets of Setcases and treat myself to a local herb liquor, ratafia. Need to know There are hotels and restaurants in Camprodon and Setcases and there are also a good number of campsites in the area. There is a bus from Barcelona to Camprodon but you can reach more trails if you have your own transport. It is best to be prepared for very varied weather when visiting this area. Waterproof jacket and warm fleece are essential even in the summer.
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Vall de Núria
PlaceDespite the lack of roads this small mountain resort gets a great number of visitors throughout the year. The majority of the visitors arrive during the summer months by the rack railway, but I prefer to follow the old path, Camí Vell de Núria from Queralbs. And if you want to leave the day trippers behind, take any of the routes that wind their way up to the peaks of the rugged mountains that line the French Spanish border and your efforts will be rewarded with some of the best views of the mountain range. There is a hotel and camping ground if you want to stay and spend a few days exploring some of the amazing trails in the mountains. Need to know If you want take the rack railway from Queralbs or from Ribes de Freser check the time table and book tickets on www.valldenuria.cat You can reach Ribes de Freser from Barcelona by train. The lively Ribes de Freser offers everything a hiker might need and can be a good base if you want to explore the area. There are some accommodation options in the quiet Queralbs and a hotel and camping ground cater for those who want to spend a couple days exploring the trails or ski slopes in Vall de Núria. Always take warm clothes and a waterproof jacket even in the summer.
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La Travessa dels 3 refugis
ExperienceThis hut to hut hike can easily fit into a long weekend, and as the name suggests the route connects three mountain huts. However there are more huts en-route, and it is possible to spend up to five nights in the mountains if you want to take a slower pace. This is a great introduction to hut to hut hiking and hut life in the Pyrenees without committing to a long trek. The route takes you through some popular hiking areas, but be prepared to cross streams on rocks and traverse rugged mountain terrain. You can walk this trail in either direction and while this isn’t widely offered as an organised walking holiday, it is easy to book your own accommodation in the huts. Like most trails in the area, this is best walked between June and early October. Opt for June if you can, to avoid the crowds that usually arrive during the summer holidays. The summer months are also perfect if you want to spot playful marmots or see some Pyrenean chamois. The route If you walk the trail anticlockwise you will follow the well trodden path from Queralbs to Coma de Vaca, passing the impressive Salt de Grill waterfall. This is a popular section and I prefer to leave from Queralbs in the early morning. The section I enjoyed most was between Coma de Vaca and Vall de Núria. This section follows a rocky path exposed in places where sure footedness is required and there is also a short section with iron chains to hold on to. You can follow the red and white GR11 signs between Coma de Vaca and Ulldeter huts, between Coma de Vaca and Vall de Núria and then also from Vall de Núria back to Queralbs. The other sections are marked with different markers, sometimes only with cairns therefore it is recommended to plan the route and carry a map.Need to know From Barcelona you can take a train to Ribes de Freser and then continue with the rack railway or a bus to Queralbs. Carry a sleeping bag and towel as these are not provided in the refuges/huts. It might be a good idea to take some cash to purchase snacks and food at the huts, as it is not always possible to pay by card. The huts’ capacity is limited, pre-book your nights by contacting them directly. Nights can get chilly, make sure you have warm clothes as well as a waterproof jacket. June is the best time for wild flowers and, if you go in September, you will meet fewer people. As the route is not signed with consistent waymarkers it is best to take a map: www.editorialalpina.com/en/alpina-map/travessa-3-refugis-2/
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Cami dels Bons Homes (GR107)
ExperienceDuring the 12th-14th centuries a religious group that rejected wealth and led a simple life gained a significant number of followers in Southern France. The Cathars, who referred to themselves as ‘good Christians’ (or ‘good men’), were not just tolerated but even supported by some nobles in the Languedoc area and by 1209, the Catholic church felt so threatened by the movement that the pope declared a crusade against the heretics. Thousands upon thousands were killed but many managed to flee France and cross the Pyrenees to seek refuge in Spain. The GR107 or Cami dels Bons Homes trail follows the route believed to have been taken by the Cathars fleeing France. As you can expect from a well maintained GR (Grande Randonnée or Gran Recorrido) route, it is well signposted with trusty red and white stripes. It can be completed in less than a fortnight and, while it is less demanding than the other long-distance walks that traverse the entire length of the Pyrenees, there is no shortage of stunning mountain scenery. I spent the nights in auberges where I was well fed with delicious food and all of my hosts claimed to live in the most beautiful part of the trail. The route You can walk the trail in either direction but I prefer to start the trek from Foix and walk across the Pyrenees just like the Cathars did. The first few days slowly ease you into walking, but I recommend that you save some energy to climb up to the ruins of Roquefixade castle at the end of the first and the ruins of Montségur castle at the end of the second day of the trek. If I had to pick a favourite section it would be the breathtakingly stunning middle section of the trail. If you want to enjoy the best mountain scenery but you can only spend two or three days on this trail, I suggest starting from Mérens-les-Vals and walking to Bellver de Cerdanya. This is the highest part of the entire trail which also happens to be the most demanding and stunning section. You can download a route card from camidelsbonshomes.com to collect stamps at the guesthouses and receive a certificate of completion of the trek. Need to know You can reach Foix from Toulouse by train (approximately one hour) and at the end of your trek in Berga you can take a bus to Barcelona (approximately two hours). Toulouse and Barcelona are both well connected with other European cities. The best time to walk the trail is between May and October, but July and Aug are the busiest months in the mountains. During the first few days the trail passes through some hamlets, but don’t expect bakeries and snack bars; on the French side of the trail you will hardly ever encounter a place where you can buy food. That doesn’t mean you have to go hungry, you can buy packed lunches from the auberges and gites where you stay. You don’t have to carry your camping gear, as it is possible to spend every night in a gite or family run guesthouse, where you will be treated with delicious local food. Fortunately you won’t have to worry about the high calorie intake in the evenings as you will certainly burn them off the next day. Once you’re in Catalonia you will be passing through towns with wider accommodation choices but if you’re walking in July or August it is best to book ahead. Take a sleeping bag and towel as it might not be provided at some gîtes and refuges. The weather can be variable in the Pyrenees and it is essential to have a waterproof jacket and warm fleece even in the summer months. Official website: www.camidelsbonshomes
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Visit the vineyard of Val d'Iris
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Gorges du Blavet day hike
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Bauroux Mountain day hike (Crêtes du Bauroux)
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Pic de la Dona and Bastiments
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Camí de Carboneres
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Serra Cavallera ridge day hike
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Pic de Finestrelles day hike
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Camí Vall de Núria day hike
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Vall del Ter/Camprodon Valley
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Vall de Núria
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La Travessa dels 3 refugis
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Cami dels Bons Homes (GR107)
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Imereti to Racha trek
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Udziro Lake trek
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Svaneti to Racha trek
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Black Rock Lake trek
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Tobavarchkhili lakes
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Alternative Mestia to Ushguli trek route
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Pedraforca hike
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Salt de Brull
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Sant Jeroni
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Castellasa circular
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Turó de l’Home from Santa Fe
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Sender del Miradors (GR 5)
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Oliba Trail (GR 151)
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Cavalls del Vent
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Camí de Picasso
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Els 3 Monts
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Transcaucasian Trail in Armenia
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Selim to Ughedzor
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Artabuynk to Yeghegis
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Kasagh Gorge hike
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Mount Aragats from Lake Kari
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Kachardzan to Hovk trek
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Matosavank & Jukhtavank loop
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Parz Lake day hike
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Limestone Way
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Gower Coast Path
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Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal
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Betws-y-Coed
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Ambleside
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Northumberland Coastpath
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Norfolk Coastpath
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Zla Kolata: a crowd-free hidden gem
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Hiking in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
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Gegham Mountain trail
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The Cape Wrath Trail
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The East Highland Way
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Cairngorms National Park
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Loch Lomond & the Trossachs
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The John Muir Way
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Yorkshire Wolds Way
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The Peak District
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West Island Way
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Arran Coastal Way
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St Ninian's Way
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Fife Coastal Path
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The Speyside Way
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The Rob Roy Way
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The Thames Path
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The Pennine Way
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The Monarch’s Way
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The Wye Valley Walk
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The West Highland Way
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Wainwright's Coast to Coast Path
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Tatev day hikes
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Truso Valley to Kelitsadi Lake trek
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Stepantsminda to Gergeti Glacier day hike
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Mestia to Ushguli trek (standard route)
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Pyrenean Haute Route
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Sentier des Pyrenees (GR10)
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