From the mountainous ‘Man Eater’ peak in Alsace, the Vosges and Col de la Chapolette, the haunting trenches of the Argonne Forest, the glistening lakes of Pierre Percée and Madine, the heart of Champagne, Burgundian Arras, the Somme and Ypres to the Nieuwpoort beach. There is something for everyone.

If you're a passionate hiker, a history lover or seeking one of Europe's newest hiking trail, the Western Front Way is sure to exceed your expectations.

The Western Front Way can take 35 days to walk. There are 11 sections to the Western Front Way, each are approximately 100km. 

From the south: Access is via Basel Airport and a direct train to Porrentruy (CH). A regional train from Porrentruy to Bonfol will take you to the start of the trail. From the north: The trail begins on the beach front in the coastal town of Nieuwpoort-Bad (BE). Access to Nieuwpoort is from Brussels to Ostend and then a regional tram to Nieuwpoort and Nieuwpoort-Bad.

Accommodation on this trail varies but are mostly good, comfortable hotels, BnB's, Chambres d'Hotes or campsites.

Wild camping / bivouac is not prohibited but is tolerated and you must respect certain regulations – Le camping sauvage. Bivouacking is generally understood to mean a one-night stop, in respect to leaving no trace, and is implicitly authorised between the hours of 7 p.m and 9 a.m and is subject rules in coastal areas, listed natural sites and historic monuments. Making an open fire when wild camping in dry/and or wooded areas in France in summer is strictly forbidden. You must seek the owner’s permission if you camp on private land.

Trail Difficulty and What to Expect

You can expect a variety of terrains on the Western Front Way. It is mostly on gravel tracks and established walking trails.  The trail includes mountain trails in the Vosges and Lorraine regions, picturesque vineyards along the renowned Alsace wine route, battle scarred woodlands, and some of Europe’s most famous waterways along the Aisne, Meuse and Somme rivers.

With an elevation of 1,424m (4,672ft) at its highest point on the Grand Ballon in the Vosges, the trail offers thrilling challenges. The majority of the Western Front Way consists of gentle slopes and flat sections. Customise your journey by selecting stages and terrains that suit your schedule and ability.

A higher level of fitness is recommended.

The routes remain on official trail paths or on quiet roads where possible. The trail has been checked and verified by our teams. Waytrails (WFW LTd) is not liable for any local diversions or surface changes due to temporary road or forestry works.

As with any best hiking trails in Europe, the best time to walk the Western Front Way is from beginning of April until end of September to take advantage of the weather and seasonal opening hours. In the summer we recommend advanced booking for hotels and restaurants. 

Waytrails has spent 10 years working with local communities, government organisations and global ambassadors to create this historical trails.

Listen to the co-founders talk about the Western Front Way on the Waytrails podcast to give you ideas and inspiration.

The GPX route follows closely the historic WWI Front Lines. We recommend you stay on the suggested route. Short cuts are not recommended unless you are sure you know what you're doing!

We can help you plan distances and timings thanks to a choice of 11 sectors.

We indicate points of interest, museums, and amenities directly along the trail.

You can plan and book accommodation, transport, and restaurants with our trusted affiliates.

You can have autonomy regarding your budget and travel options, allowing you to tailor the experience to your preferences and needs.

Hiker Testimonials and Stories from the Western Front Way

“What a trip. Will stay with me forever!!"

“Thank you again for your advice last year…I started again at Noyon last week and am now near Suippes. Having the app makes all the difference.” 

“I would reflect how much better off I was than the soldiers who had fought on the soil along which I was walking. Blisters! Pah! The soldiers had to endure far worse”