5 of the most thrilling hikes in Europe

Hiking mountains during summer it is an astonishing experience. This is why I’ve put together a list of 5 of the most thrilling hikes in Europe I’ve experienced during summer. Any of these countries are a resource of perfect natural beauty being a remarkable holiday destination, even if you are not a fan of hikes.

1. Besseggen Ridge, Norway

I believe that Norway is one of the most beautiful countries on earth. When it comes to landscapes it is definitely a unique experience: a large variety of breathtaking surroundings, mountains, deep fjords and lush valleys, tumbling waterfalls and deep blue water that’s guaranteed to make a lasting imprint on your memory. Therefore no wonder that my top list of the most beautiful hikes in Europe is here. Beside of this list, in one of the previous posts – here – is my complete itinerary to Norway.

Besseggen Ridge is part of the Jotunheimen National Park (which means “home of the giants” in Norwegian) being the most thrilling hikes I ever done before.

The beautiful trail ascends up above two contrasting lakes: the glacial emerald-green Gjende Lake on one side and the navy-blue Bessvatnet on the opposite side of the ridge. Bessvatnet is the Norway’s clearest lake, where you can see as far as 30 meters below the surface of the water.

There are two alternative to walk the Besseggen ridge: either start at Gjendeosen or take the Gjende boat to Memurubu and trek back to Gjendeosen. The hike starting from Memurubu is slightly easier, but starting from the other side reveals the best views. Since is a very popular trail, we started it at 14 p.m., from Gjendesheim to Memurubu, in order to avoid the crowd and enjoy a breathtaking afternoon hike.

Useful tips:

Duration: 6-8 hours, including stops

The hiking equipment is demanding: hiking boots, waterproof and windproof clothes, hat and gloves (it was raining during the trail and it keeps dry).

Website: www.gjende.no

Season: from middle of June to middle of October

2. Romsdalseggen Ridge, Norway

The hike across Romsdalseggen Ridge is considered “some of the world most scenic hikes”.  Standing on top of the ridge it is a really breathtaking and unforgettable experience.

During the trail we enjoyed a scenic view over the Romsdal Mountains, the Trollveggen wall, Molde town and the Norwegian Sea.

There are two alternative to walk the Romsdalseggen Ridge: either start from Åndalsnes to Vengedalen valley or in reverse.

How to get there: by bus, from the bus terminal in Åndalsnes, which leaves from 9:30 a.m to the Vengedalen valley, where the hike starts.

The hike is 10 km long (approx. 8 hours) and height difference is 970 m.

For those who do not want to go on the entire trail there is a platform – Rampestreken – only at 30 min. /1h hike from Åndalsnes, where you can enjoy an amazing view over the Åndalsnes.

Website: www.visitnorway.com

3. Aletch Glacier, Switzerland

Aletch Glacier is a huge river of ice, 23 km long situated in Jungfrau region. Also, it is part of the Unesco World Heritage being the largest glacier in Alps. The most thrilling viewpoints over the glacier are from Moosfluh, Bettmerhorn and Eggishorn.

How to get there:

• by train/ car to Betten;
• cable car from Betten to Bettmeralp;
• return cable car Eggishorn to valley station Fiesch.

Duration: 3 hours starting from Bettmeralp to the Eggishorn cable car.

4. Piz Boe, Dolomites

Dolomites are not only the paradise of winter sports activities, but as well the destination of a well spent summer holiday. The endless list of trails (find more in my previous post – here), easier and difficult levels, the fresh air and the relaxing moments spent at one of the Refugio, the small villages makes this place an unforgettable escape.

The trail to Piz Boe, 3.152 m, duration 10 hours, level of difficulty: high,

Our trail starts from Colfosco village and ends in Corvara. We finished it after one long day, but I would recommend to take two days for this trail, if is possible.
The starting point was from Colfosco (1.645 m), following on 651 trail Val de Misde until you reach Rifugio Boe 2.873 m. The last part of the ascending to Piz Boe is the hardest. Once we arrived at highest point 3.152 m we return to Corvara (1.568 m) via Piz Boe Alpine Lounge. The whole experience was spectacular and unforgettable and surly it worth all the effort.

But there is always an easiest alternative with the cable car. Taking the cable car from Corvara reduce the hiking time to only 4-5 hours to Piz Boe and back.

5. Apuseni Mountains, trail Stâna de Vale – Talharului Stone, during May

The impressive mountains, green and mysterious forests, a great variety of caves, picturesque villages and hamlets are some of the reason why Apuseni Mountains are my favorite mountains in Romania.

We made this trail at the beginning of May and the beauty of the purple blanket of crocuses lying in front of me made this trail one of the most thrilling experiences.

Duration: 8 h, 21 km, level of difficulty: medium

Follow the yellow stripe marker, Stana de Vale – Talharului Stone trail.