The top 10 list has been compiled by experts at Much Better Adventures magazine on the basis of their own data as well as data from AllTrails and Google.
The list is topped by Laugavegur Trail in Iceland, a 55 km trek that takes four days to complete.
No. 3 in the list is the 26 km trail from Palenica Białczańska to the summit of Rysy, the highest peak in the Polish Tatras, standing at 2,499 metres.
The first stop along the way is at the crystal-clear Lake Morskie Oko.
"From there, the path becomes steeper and more challenging as you approach the summit of Rysy," Much Better Adventures writes. "The ascent to Rysy involves steep and rocky paths that can be slippery, especially after rain. Sturdy hiking boots are an absolute must, and walking poles and gloves can also come in useful. Helmets are recommended for the final climb to the summit. The trail offers breathtaking views of the rugged mountain landscape, alpine meadows, and dramatic peaks.”
The hike’s average duration is 10 and a half hours.
A slightly shorter trail, also starting at Palenica Białczańska, is the 10th best-rated European long-distance hike. The trail is 22.5 km long and takes hikers through the Dolina Pięciu Stawów Polskich (Five Polish Ponds Valley) to Lake Morskie Oko.
Much Better Adventures writes: “You’ll pass by waterfalls and lakes backdropped by rugged mountain faces along the way, with the opportunity to rest and recoup at a mountain hut, before ending on a large descent.”
Much Better Adventures says on its website that “longer hikes are usually less crowded, and given that the more you walk, the fewer people there tends to be, you're almost guaranteed to add a bump of tranquility to your adventure.”
The top 10 trails “offer unique and authentic experiences that you might not get from a shorter trek,” accordig to Much Better Adventures.
(mk/gs)
Source: Much Better Adventures
