The world’s most beautiful hiking trails

Where is it? Oludeniz to Geyikbayırı, Turkey 

Length: 540km

How long does it take? 30 days, but the route is divided into smaller sections

When to go: September to November

The Lycian Way is one of the most famous hikes in the world and Türkiye’s first long-distance trail. It was once an old trade route connecting settlements in Lycia, but now draws tourists to explore the ruins of temples and towns left by ancient civilisations. The trail snakes past sheer cliffs, secluded beaches and ancient ruins – some highlights include the city of Olympos, the golden sands of Patara Beach and Saklikent Canyon. And as a reward for such a workout, don’t miss a dip in the gin-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon in Oludeniz.

Where is it? Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Length: 120km

How long does it take? 10 days

When to go: November to March

Any avid hiker has Patagonia on their bucket list, and the winding O Circuit, which also incorporates the well-known W Trek, is the most famous route in the park. Whether you head out on a tour or go it alone, you’ll need to start in Puerto Natales, from where you can begin the challenging 8-day trek. With far fewer visitors than its smaller counterpart, you have room to soak up the towering peaks, brilliant blue lakes and vast plains, such as the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the Grey Glacier and the recognisable Los Cuernos, without a soul in sight. 

Time Out tip: You can choose to hike self-supported, carrying camping gear and supplies, or enjoy comfort and food at refugios (mountain huts), but both options require advance booking and a permit. 

Where is it? Chamonix loop around Mont Blanc

Length: 170km

How long does it take? 7-10 days

When to go: June to mid-September

The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of Europe’s most popular hut-to-hut hiking trails, traversing France, Italy and Switzerland around the awe-inspiring Mont Blanc massif. The trail is divided into 11 stages, meaning it’s easy to enjoy some or all of it at once, with multiple route options and starting points. Due to the elevation, you can expect uninterrupted mountain views throughout, along with sections that cross rushing rivers, lush alpine meadows and steep valleys, such as the Chamonix Valley and Aiguillette des Posettes. The area is so well-trodden that you’ll find huts, guesthouses and hotels en route, and there are plenty of operators who can organise a full trip. 

Where is it? Besisahar to Jomsom, Nepal

Length: Up to 230km, depending on route

How long does it take? 12-22 days

When to go: October to November, April to May

The Annapurna Trek is arguably one of the world’s greatest hikes, taking you to the roof of the world with views of Mount Everest and the snow-blanketed Himalayan peaks as far as the eye can see. The remote circuit gently winds past peaceful villages and Buddhist Temples towards Thorang La, one of the world’s highest passes at 5,416m and into the breathtaking Mustang region. The trail is manageable if you’re reasonably fit, but the extremes in elevation gain means you’ll need to take it slow to make it all the way. 

Time Out tip: Foreigners hiking Nepal’s mountain regions must be accompanied by a licensed guide. Tours will arrange this for you, but if you’re travelling independently, check the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) for reputable options. 

Where is it? Apollo Bay to The Twelve Apostles, Australia

Length: 104km

How long does it take? 8 days

When to go: September to November, March to May

So you’ve heard of the Great Ocean Road as an epic road trip, but did you know you can explore it on foot? This coastal trail south of Melbourne takes in some of Victoria’s most magnificent natural wonders, whether you tackle the full 8-day trek or break it into shorter day hikes. You’ll meander through emerald forests where koalas sleep overhead and along windswept coastline home to eerie shipwrecks. Warmer months offer the best chance of enjoying spots like Milanesia Beach and Station Beach, but no matter what the weather, you won’t fail to be impressed by Great Otway National Park and the iconic 12 Apostles, where the route culminates. 

Time Out tip: Although the Great Ocean Walk can be hiked year-round, June to October has the highest chance of spotting migrating humpback whales offshore. 

Where is it? Georgia, Armenia

Length: 1500km

How long does it take? Up to six weeks

When to go: June to September

Located in two of the least-visited eastern European countries, Georgia and Armenia, the Transcaucasian Trail (TCT) is relatively young, having only opened in 2022. As such, you’re likely to see very few people en route. But those who venture here will discover rugged mountain scenery and volcanic plateaus untouched by tourism. Most begin in Armenia’s capital, Yerevan, to pick up supplies, but the route can be hiked in either direction. Either way, you’ll get to explore the kaleidoscopic Gegham Mountains, Lake Sevan and the craggy peaks of Arevik National Park, with traditional villages and monastery-studded hillsides throughout. 

Time Out tip: The trail can be hiked south to north, or vice versa, but you’ll need to be fully self-supported. There are only scattered towns, wild camping spots and simple guesthouses, so ensure you have the correct gear from the start. 

Where is it? Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

Length: 19.4km

How long does it take? One full day (6-8 hours)

When to go: October - April

If you’re searching for a hiking trail with lunar-like landscapes, deep craters and radioactive-coloured lakes, look no further than this day hike through the UNESCO-listed Tongariro National Park. You’ll start at Mangatepopo trailhead and ascend in the shadow of Mt Ngāuruhoe, which film buffs will recognise as the mythical Mt Doom in Lord of the Rings, before reaching the dramatic South Crater. The trail also takes in the Red Crater and vivid Emerald and Blue lakes, as well as offering sweeping views over Mt Taranaki in the distance. 

Time Out tip: As the hike is one-way, you’ll need to book a shuttle to take you from the end point back to your own transportation. In high season, make sure to book a spot in advance and check shuttle times so you’re not waiting for hours after a long hike. 

Where is it? Ke’e Beach to Kalalau Beach, Kauaʻi, Hawaii

Length: 36km round trip

How long does it take? 1-2 days

When to go: Year-round, but watch out for rain between May-October

Hawaii’s Nā Pali coastline is straight out of Jurassic Park – in fact, the original movie was filmed on this exact stretch along the incredible Kalalau Trail. It’s a tough but rewarding hike that takes in mythical views of the island’s jagged, jungle-clad cliffs, thundering waterfalls and deserted beaches. If you don’t have time for hiking and camping the full route, the start of the trail between Hāʻena State Park and Hanakapi’ai Beach is easy to tackle in a day, but those who persevere will make it to the sweeping Hanakoa Valley and remote Kalalau Beach. 

Time Out tip: If you want to go past Hanakapiai Valley, you’ll need to get a permit. The trail past here and to Hanakapi’ai Falls is recommended for very experienced hikers only.

Where is it? Maligne Lake, Jasper, Canada

Length: 15km round trip

How long does it take? Less than a day

When to go: June to September

Canada has mountains for days and a raft of hikes to explore them, but the short, straightforward Bald Hills Trail in Jasper National Park is one anyone can do. It’s easy to reach the trailhead by car, and although the path is predominantly filled with sun-dappled forest and the occasional moose, hikers will be rewarded with far-reaching views of bright blue Maligne Lake and 360-degree panoramas over the Rocky Mountains at the summit. It’s short enough to do in 4-6 hours, but you should take water and some food - mainly to enjoy the world’s most beautiful picnic before your return descent. 

Where is it?  Pisacucho to Machu Picchu, Peru

Length: 43km

How long does it take? 4 days

When to go: May to September

This challenging hike through the misty Andes mountains to one of the world’s seven wonders, Machu Picchu, is on many a bucket list – but it’s a challenging trek and requires a very good level of fitness. The off-grid trail passes through the verdant countryside of the Sacred Valley and crosses the Urubamba River, before a steep ascent up Dead Woman’s Pass, fuelled by uninterrupted views of the mountains. Upon reaching the Sun Gate, seeing the ancient Incan ruins of Machu Picchu will make the acclimatisation and tired legs more than worth the journey. 

Time Out tip: You must have a permit to hike the Inca Trail, which can only be obtained by licensed guides and companies. The trail is limited to 500 hikers per day, so booking your trip in advance is essential, and don’t forget to carry your passport.