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The E5 is one of Europe's most celebrated long-distance hiking trails. While the full European E5 stretches around 3,200km (1988mi) from the Atlantic coast of France to Verona in northern Italy, its most iconic section is the Alpine Crossing between Oberstdorf and Merano. On this classic self-guided journey, you'll follow the trail across Germany, Austria and Italy, traversing dramatic mountain passes, flower-filled alpine meadows, rugged ridgelines and traditional mountain villages. Highlights include crossing the Mädelejoch into Austria, the panoramic ridge walk across the Venet massif, the ascent to the Pitztaler Jöchl—the highest point of the route—and your final hike beneath the Hirzer massif before descending into Merano, where Mediterranean influences replace the high alpine scenery. With a navigational app, luggage transfers and comfortable hotel and inn accommodation, you can experience one of the Alps' most rewarding long-distance walks at your own pace while we take care of the logistics.
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Day 1
Arrive Oberstdorf (Germany)
Oberstdorf is a lively alpine town set at the southern tip of Germany, surrounded by jagged limestone peaks and deep green valleys. Known for its ski jumping history and traditional Bavarian charm, it’s the perfect place to ease into your journey. Take time to wander the village streets, browse local bakeries, or ride the Nebelhorn cable car for expansive views across the Alps — a preview of the landscapes to come. Check in to your hotel from mid afternoon.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Ascend the Allgäu Alps then descend to the Lechtal valley and transfer to Steeg (Austria) (6hrs)
Your walk begins dramatically through the Sperrbachtobel gorge, where waterfalls and steep rock walls frame the trail. As you climb into the Allgäu Alps, the scenery opens into high alpine terrain dotted with grazing cattle and wildflowers in summer. At the Kemptner Hut, one of the oldest mountain huts in the region, you get a taste of classic alpine culture before crossing the Mädelejoch pass (1974m) into Austria. Descending into the Lechtal Valley, you’ll cross a striking suspension bridge and arrive in Holzgau, a postcard-perfect village known for its elaborately painted facades. A short transfer brings you to nearby Steeg, a peaceful alpine settlement. 14 km / 8.7 mi | +990 m / 3,248 ft | -900 m / 2,953 ft
Meals: B
Day 3
Through the Lechtal Alps to St. Anton am Arlberg (5.5hrs)
Follow quiet alpine tracks into the remote heart of the Lechtal Alps, one of Austria’s less-visited mountain regions. This is a landscape shaped by traditional farming — wooden barns, flower-filled meadows and grazing animals are a constant presence. Climb steadily to the Leutkircher Hut, perched high above the valley, where panoramic views stretch across rugged ridgelines. Your descent leads to St. Anton am Arlberg, internationally known as a premier ski destination, but equally appealing in summer with its mix of alpine scenery and lively village atmosphere. 15 km / 9.3 mi | +900 m / 2,953 ft | -1,100 m / 3,609 ft
Day 4
Train to Landeck, dramatic ridge walk across the Venet massif, descend to the Pitztal Valley (4.5–5hrs)
After a short train journey to Landeck, ascend by cable car to high alpine terrain at 2,000 m / 6,562 ft. A spectacular ridge walk across the Venet massif delivers uninterrupted 360° views — from the Ötztal Alps to distant snow-capped peaks. The trail undulates across open ridgelines, passing small summits and alpine pastures alive with the sound of cowbells. Descending through forest and wildflower meadows, you enter the tranquil Pitztal Valley, known for its glaciers and traditional Tyrolean villages. 11 km / 6.8 mi | +350 m / 1,148 ft | -1,490 m / 4,888 ft
Day 5
Dramatic alpine crossing to Pitztaler Jöchl, the highest point on the trail, descend to the Ötztal Valley (6hrs)
Today is one of the most memorable alpine crossings of the journey. After a short transfer, climb steadily to the Braunschweiger Hut, dramatically positioned among glaciers and high peaks. Continue to the Pitztaler Jöchl (approx. 3,000 m / 9,843 ft) — the highest point of the trip — where expansive views stretch across a rugged, high-alpine landscape. Descend into the Ötztal via rocky paths and alpine terrain, eventually reaching greener valleys below. Alternative route: Follow the Pitzenklamm gorge along rushing rivers, through woodland and past Lake Piburger See, before crossing dramatic bridges above the Ötztaler Ache. 13 km / 8.1 mi | +1,250 m / 4,101 ft | -950 m / 3,117 ft
Day 6
Cross to Italy and South Tyrol (5–5.5hrs)
Trace historic smugglers’ routes over the Timmelsjoch Pass (2,500 m / 8,202 ft), a high mountain crossing linking Austria and Italy. The scenery shifts as you descend into South Tyrol — from rugged alpine terrain to softer, sunlit valleys filled with wildflowers and larch forests. Towering rock faces frame the trail as you make your way into the Passeiertal Valley. This region blends Austrian and Italian influences, reflected in its cuisine, architecture and warm hospitality. 15 km / 9.3 mi | +1,000 m / 3,281 ft | -1,000 m / 3,281 ft
Day 7
Hike beneath the Hirzer massif, descend by cable car to Merano (6hrs)
Following in the footsteps of local hero Andreas Hofer, ascend through forest to the alpine pastures of the Pfandleralm. From here, a breathtaking high-altitude trail unfolds beneath the Hirzer massif, offering sweeping views across South Tyrol’s valleys and peaks. After a well-earned break at the Hirzer Hut, descend by cable car and transfer by public bus to Merano, a refined spa town known for its palm-lined promenades, historic arcades and mild Mediterranean climate — a striking contrast to the high mountains you’ve just crossed. 14 km / 8.7 mi | +1,490 m / 4,888 ft | -250 m / 820 ft
Day 8
Trip concludes Merano (Italy)
Your journey concludes after breakfast. You may wish to extend your stay to explore Merano’s gardens, thermal baths or nearby vineyards.
What's included
What's not included
Stay in welcoming 3 star hotels that reflect the region’s character and charm. These handpicked accommodations offer warm hospitality, location and comfort.
These hotels are full of charm and local character, set in beautiful locations
You walk on a combination of rocky alpine trails, forest trails and at times asphalt - at all times you will need to have a good level of sure footedness and a head for heights.
At times, you will need to cross bridges including suspension bridges
GRADE 5 - This trip involves sustained alpine hiking with daily walking times of 4 to 6 hours (6.8–15 km / 4.2–9.3 mi) across varied terrain. The average ascents and descents across the 6 walking days around 997 m ascent and 948 m descent per day with a total of5,980m up (just over the height of Kilimanjaro) and 5,690m down over 82 km. Several stages take place in high alpine environments, including narrow trails, steep ascents and descents, and exposed sections. As such, previous hiking experience, surefootedness and a head for heights are essential. A good level of fitness is required to comfortably manage consecutive days of walking with significant elevation gain. The first two days are more distinctly alpine in nature and set the tone for the trip. On subsequent days, there are lower-level alternatives available, allowing you to opt for more moderate valley routes or shorten stages using local transport where needed. Overall, this trip is best suited to walkers who are confident in mountainous terrain and prepared for a physically rewarding alpine journey.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.
Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.
With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love.
8Days
Moderate to Challenging
7Days
Challenging
4Days
Moderate