– Europe’s unique walking tradition
Eurorando is the flagship pan-European walking event of the European Hiking Federation (ERA), bringing together thousands of walkers from across Europe to celebrate unity, nature, and cultural exchange through walking.
Held every five years in a different European country, each Eurorando features a special theme and combines local walks with a final international gathering. The events foster friendship, sustainability, and cross-border cooperation—values at the heart of ERA’s mission.
Here is a short history of the events:
Eurorando 2001 – “Walking for a United Europe”
The inaugural Eurorando featured relay walks on 10 trails from all corners of Europe to Strasbourg, where 5,000 walkers gathered for a final week of celebration at the European Parliament. The event culminated in the Declaration of Strasbourg, emphasizing the role of walking in building a united and peaceful Europe.
Eurorando 2006 – South Bohemia, Czech Republic
Organized by the Czech Tourist Club (KCT), this second Eurorando brought together over 4,000 walkers from 15 countries. The week included guided walks, cultural visits, youth conferences, and a festive parade in České Budějovice. The idea of establishing Eurorando as a recurring 5-year event was born here.
Eurorando 2011 – “Water and E-paths”, Andalusia, Spain
Eurorando 2011 featured walks across Europe focused on water and E-paths. A symbolic ritual saw water from European rivers and springs poured into a fountain at the Alhambra in Granada. The final week in Andalusia welcomed 4,000–5,000 walkers from across Europe.
Eurorando 2016 – “Energy”, Skåne, Sweden
The fourth Eurorando promoted walking as a sustainable and energizing activity. The event was hosted in Skåne, Sweden, with walks and activities designed to explore natural energy sources and environmental respect.
Eurorando 2021 – Sibiu, Romania
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Eurorando 2021 was successfully conducted in Sibiu, Romania, with adjusted participation and health precautions in place.
The spirit of Eurorando
Since 2001, Eurorando has grown into Europe’s largest international walking event, bringing together walkers from diverse cultures and countries to promote:
✅ Understanding and protecting the countryside
✅ Learning and preserving Europe’s historical and cultural heritage
✅ Fostering friendship and unity among European citizens
ERA continues to organize Eurorando every five years—each time in a new country, with a new theme—inviting walkers to explore Europe’s rich landscapes and shared future on foot.
