Long-Distance Hiking: Cross-Border Adventures from the Glacier to the Sea

Here, long-distance hiking means trekking from the foot of the majestic Grossglockner mountain to the azure blue sea beside the harbour town of Muggia. The long-distance Alpe-Adria hiking trail offers all of this and more.

This cross-border high-altitude trail with a total of 43 stages runs along lakes, streams and rivers in Austria, Slovenia and Italy. The Alpe-Adria Trail follows existing paths and guarantees an extra-special adventure for your long-distance hikes. Each stage follows a defined route. Along the trail, natural jewels, excellent dining and attractive accommodation invite you to stop and stay a while. From farms and rustic chalets to popular hiking hotels, all accommodation can be easily booked online.

What makes the Alpe-Adria Trail such a special long-distance hiking trail?

It is not only fun and adventure that awaits you whilst hiking on this exciting long-distance trail. You will also experience the cultural diversity of three countries along the way, which are all connected by their long common history. This is an eventful journey for all long-distance hikers who want to experience natural beauty, indulge in great cuisine and meet interesting people in the Alpe-Adria region on foot.

The first stage begins at the Kaiser-Franz-Josef-Höhe, the end of the Grossglockner High Alpine Road. The destination of this cross-border long-distance hiking trail is the Italian harbour city of Muggia, near Trieste. From start to finish, this hike follows the water in all its forms; from the everlasting ice in the glaciers of the Hohe Tauern to roaring waterfalls, rivers and lakes, all the way to the sea. As you head south on this long-distance hiking trail you will be accompanied by the mild climate, which has many hours of sunshine and pleasant temperatures in store for you.

Long-distance hiking made easy – tips for beginners

Long-distance hiking is an endurance sport. A long-distance hike requires not only careful planning but also good health and realistic self-evaluation. Plan your tour wisely. Pay attention to the current weather forecast and take suitable footwear. We recommend lightweight, well broken-in and waterproof trekking boots with non-slip soles.

Good hiking shoes protect and relieve your feet, as well as improve your surefootedness. And while we’re on the topic, moving safely across the terrain is essential; especially on rockier passages. In terrain without trails, the risk of becoming disorientated increases. Therefore, you should always stay on the marked mountain trails and take regular breaks during your long-distance hike.

Long-distance hiking in Carinthia without luggage

If you are planning a multi-day tour and want to hike with as little in your backpack as possible, you can have your heavy luggage transported to your next accommodation. This is a wonderful, practical service for all long-distance hikers and particularly for those travelling with children or four-legged friends. The Alpe-Adria Trail booking centre will be happy to help organise your dream hike!

It is important to choose your route carefully to ensure hiking with kids is a fun experience. Small children always need a destination or goal to work towards. There must be a special highlight as a reward for their hike. A waterfall, educational trail or treat at a cosy chalet, for example, can really motivate kids. 

Discover your favourite stretch of the Alpe-Adria Trail and enjoy the beauty and magic of this landscape. Have fun!