Europe is home to an array of pilgrimage trails charting the lives of the saints. For centuries the devout have walked these hallowed paths and found spiritual nourishment and rebirth. Whether you are seeking spiritual rejuvenation or just fancy walking through some of the most magnificent scenery Europe has to offer, these pilgrimage trails should be at the top of your list.
The Camino de Santiago
Beginning in southern France, this ancient pilgrimage route leads through the stunning Pyrenees and the rolling hills of the Basque county before arriving at the Spanish coastal town of Santiago de Compostela. With over 200,000 participants per year, this trail is certainly on the rise.
St Cuthbert’s Way
This is a relatively new pilgrimage walk, which was only officially opened in 1996. It follows the path of St Cuthbert through the spectacular views of the Scottish borders, starting at Melrose Abbey and ending at the coast on Holy Island.
Les Chemins de Mont-Saint-Michel
This route leads through the fields and forests of Normandy in north-western France. Besides the magnificent abbey located at the pilgrimage’s destination at Mont-Saint-Michel is beautiful Rouen cathedral and the basilica Saint-Gervais – home to the skull of St Aubert.
Via Francigena
This challenging trail leads from the eastern French town of Pontarlier, through the Swiss Alps and into the Great St Bernard Pass in northern Italy. The rolling mountains of Switzerland have inspired generations of pilgrims determined enough to take on the task.
Glastonbury Tor to Stonehenge
Located in the south-west of England, this pagan pilgrimage trail connects two of Britain’s most sacred sites. See if you can feel the magic in these enchanted landscapes.