5 amazing trekking routes in Italy

Thinking of la bella Italia never fails to whisk us away on a glorious daydream filled with fascinating roman history, cup after cup of espresso, picture-perfect scenery and food, lots and lots of great food. But there’s so much more to discover in Italy, including these spectacular trekking routes recommended by the team at Wikiloc, the app that helps users find the best hiking routes in the world.

Although this trek begins at the Campo Imperatore observatory, you’re not going to be stargazing. Instead you’ll be admiring the scenery around the Corno Grande (meaning “big horn”), the highest peak of the Italian peninsula. Be prepared: it’s a long one. Approximately 12 km to the top, it takes roughly seven hours to complete. But all that effort will be richly rewarded with stunning panoramas of the Apennines and a walking experience that takes you through one of the most biodiverse areas of Europe.

Nowhere captures the essence of Italy quite like the Cinque Terre. This 5 km route takes you through the five villages that give the area its name – this is the Italy you’ll probably picture when you close your eyes: postcard-worthy seascapes, rural trails and multicoloured houses. Finish at the main square in Vernazza where you can relax and enjoy la dolce vita.

The Path of the Gods (a name derived from a legendary encounter between Ulysses and the Sirens in Greek mythology) perfectly showcases why the Amalfi Coast is such an enchanting area of natural beauty for so many. Surrounded by lush wild vegetation and with the coastline a constant accompaniment, walking this three-hour 9.6 km route feels like being immersed in the landscapes of a Federico Fellini film. Best of all, one of the most charming towns in Italy awaits you at the end: Positano.

If you’re looking for a trek that will really challenge you, try the 27 km Selvaggio Blu route in Sardinia. It absolutely lives up to its name the “Wild Blue”, with the characteristic turquoise blue of the Mediterranean providing a mesmerising backdrop for this tough route. Experience is needed here as you’ll be climbing, rappelling and navigating some steep slopes. To cool off, a swim in the beautiful coves is a must.

Few places can rival the breathtaking beauty of the Dolomites. Amongst the area’s many hiking routes, there’s one that truly stands out: Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Taking in the sight of this colossal trio of granite rocks, with their distinctive tooth-like appearance, is the prize that awaits you after two to three hours of trekking this 11 km route.

During the journey, you’ll also be able to soak up the sight of lakes with crystal clear waters, stunning chapels and even a highly recommended chocolate cake that you can buy at the Locatelli Refuge for a delicious (and welcome) energy boost.

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