When it comes to iconic hiking regions, the European Alps mountain range system thoroughly deserves all its accolades. Extending approximately 1,200 kilometres, the Alps is the largest mountain chain in Europe and boasts some of the highest European peaks. Renowned as a wintertime ski destination, the Alps is equally popular as a spectacular summertime walking area. This region is home to several thousand kilometres of well-maintained and well signposted paths.

The star attraction of the French Northern Alps is the Mont Blanc Massif. Rising to an altitude of 4,810 metres, Mont Blanc is Western Europe’s highest mountain. It looms large above its surrounds including the glorious Chamonix Valley. The Tour du Mont Blanc circumnavigates this mighty mountain and is one of the world’s best loved walks. The Chamonix Valley also hosts more than 300 kilometres of trails which provide a wide range of walking opportunities.

Chamonix is also the start point for the famed Walker’s Haute Route that heads from France into Switzerland, finishing in Zermatt under the Matterhorn.

Aside from the breathtaking mountains, walking in the Alps showcases classic alpine scenery. Walkers are led through a wonderland of dramatic glaciers, mirrored lakes, stunning waterfalls, tranquil forests, vast valleys, ice-cold rivers, alpine meadows and seasonal wildflowers.

Charming villages are dotted throughout the region offering various standards of accommodation and delicious local cuisine. There is also an extensive network of walkers’ huts placed strategically along many hiking trails. These alpine refuges are well-known for their generous hospitality and great camaraderie at the end of a day’s walk.

The walking season in the Alps is short due to prevailing temperatures and the presence of snow on tracks. It runs between late June and mid September with summer temperatures ranging from 6 degrees celsius to 20 degrees celsius. Many of the mountain refuges are closed outside this time.