The European Greenways Association (EGWA) was established in 1998 in Namur (Belgium) with the aim of promoting the creation and development of greenways across Europe. Today, it brings together nearly 50 organisations from 17 European countries involved in greenway development.
Imagine traveling across Europe slowly, off the beaten track, through peaceful nature and on hidden heritage trails. Whether by bike, foot, roller skates, horseback, or any other engine-free means, de-motorized journeys invite you to rediscover Europe in a different way: by the Greenways. This network of green paths stretches across the continent, offering travelers the opportunity to enjoy nature, culture, and authentic local experiences while exploring Europe at a human pace.
Many of the routes follow paths transformed from disused railway lines and historic towpaths. Others trace former trade and cultural corridors often linked to Europe’s rich industrial heritage, now reimagined as attractive, safe and accessible green routes that reconnect places and communities.
Greenways’ response to the growing demand for experiences combining nature, culture and well-being is about 30,000 kilometers of trails to explore! From classic rail-to-trail routes such as the Spanish Vías Verdes and Portuguese Ecopistas; the slow paths of RAVeL in Wallonia, Belgium; the scenic rail-to-trail and canal routes in Flanders, Belgium; picturesque greenways in Luxembourg; Greenways following river corridors in Czechia and Poland; and the Green Railways in Latvia to the green trails crossing the Irish countryside, choose from dozens of ways to discover Europe’s lesser-known heritage and landscapes. Quietly.
Greenways offer great opportunities for eco and active tourism, encouraging people to enjoy healthy outdoor activities while traveling responsibly. They also make it easier to discover heritage, local culture, and beautiful places that lie beyond the main tourist routes across Europe.
More than just an adventurous form of transportation, Greenways play an important role in preserving European nature and culture. In a region as historic and well-traveled as Europe, sustainable travel protects the infrastructure while helping the environment. By traveling via Greenways, visitors and locals alike have the opportunity to experience Europe’s best-preserved and lesser-known locations, providing an active, emotional experience that visits only to crowded hot spots just can’t deliver.
You can help maintain Europe’s natural beauty: make it part of your adventure! Go offbeat, discover real local life; travel the Greenways.
