This is an overview and summary of ERA member organisations
Österreichischer Alpenverein – Sektion Weitwanderer is a specialized section of the Austrian Alpine Club, focused on long-distance hiking. This group caters to enthusiasts of extensive treks and promotes a range of long-distance trails across Austria and beyond. It supports its members with detailed trail information, planning resources, and organizes events to bring together like-minded hikers who share a passion for exploring vast landscapes on foot. For more detailed information, please visit alpenverein.at/weitwanderer/.
Grote Routepaden is a Belgian organization dedicated to developing and maintaining long-distance walking paths, known as GR paths, in Belgium. These paths are marked with red and white stripes and are part of a network that extends throughout Europe. The organization offers maps, guides, and resources to help walkers plan their trips along these scenic and culturally rich routes. They aim to promote hiking as a way to explore and appreciate natural and historical landscapes. For more information, you can visit their website.
Sentiers de Grande Randonnée asbl (SGR) is an organization in Belgium responsible for managing and promoting the extensive network of long-distance hiking trails known as GR (Grande Randonnée) paths. These paths are part of a wider European network, offering detailed, well-marked routes that traverse diverse landscapes, linking natural, historical, and cultural sites. SGR provides resources, such as maps and guides, to help hikers navigate these trails, enhancing the walking experience in Belgium.
Planinarski Savez Bosne i Herzegovine (Mountaineering Association of Bosnia and Herzegovina) is an organization dedicated to the promotion and development of mountaineering and hiking in Bosnia and Herzegovina. They focus on the preservation of natural landscapes and cultural heritage through active engagement in outdoor activities. The association organizes various events, maintains hiking trails, and educates about safety and environmental conservation to enhance the hiking experience across the country’s diverse terrains.
Bulgarski Turisticheski Soyuz (Bulgarian Tourist Union) is an organization that promotes hiking, mountaineering, and tourism in Bulgaria. It oversees the maintenance of mountain shelters and paths, and organizes a range of outdoor activities, including educational programs and competitions aimed at all age groups. The union seeks to foster a love for nature and encourage ecological practices among tourists and locals alike.
Croatian Mountaineering Association (Hrvatski planinarski savez, HPS) promotes mountaineering and hiking in Croatia. It oversees the development and maintenance of hiking trails and mountain shelters, organizes educational programs, and supports environmental conservation initiatives. The association also works to foster a community of hikers and mountaineers, encouraging the exploration of Croatia’s diverse and scenic landscapes.
Cyprus Deputy Ministry of Tourism is responsible for promoting Cyprus as a prime tourist destination. It focuses on enhancing the tourism sector through strategic marketing and development initiatives that showcase the island’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The ministry supports various tourism-related activities, ensuring that Cyprus remains attractive and accessible to international visitors.
Klub českých turistů (Czech Tourist Club) is an organization in the Czech Republic focused on promoting tourism and outdoor activities, including hiking and cycling. The club marks and maintains trails, organizes events, and publishes maps and guides to support tourists and local adventurers alike in exploring the natural and cultural landmarks of the Czech landscape.
Dansk Vandrelaug is a Danish hiking organization that promotes walking and hiking as recreational activities throughout Denmark. The organization focuses on facilitating outdoor experiences by organizing guided hikes and maintaining trails, making the natural beauty of Denmark accessible and enjoyable for both locals and tourists. They also advocate for the benefits of walking for health and well-being.
Eesti Matkaliit MTÜ (Estonian Hiking Association) is dedicated to promoting hiking and outdoor activities in Estonia. The association organizes hikes, educational events, and training sessions to enhance outdoor skills and environmental awareness. They also work on developing and maintaining hiking trails across Estonia to ensure safe and enjoyable experiences for both locals and tourists.
Fédération Française de la Randonnée Pédestre (FFRP) is a French organization dedicated to hiking. It manages and promotes a vast network of over 180,000 kilometers of marked hiking trails across France. The FFRP offers guidance, maps, and other resources to hikers, focusing on ensuring access to well-maintained and environmentally respectful paths. Additionally, it advocates for the interests of hikers and works to promote hiking as a healthy recreational activity.
Fédération du Club Vosgien is dedicated to promoting and maintaining an extensive network of hiking trails in the Vosges mountains of France. It focuses on preserving the natural beauty of this region while encouraging public engagement through hiking and outdoor activities. The federation also emphasizes the importance of environmental education and heritage conservation in its various programs and initiatives.
Comité Régional de la Randonnée Pédestre Occitanie (Languedoc-Roussillon) is a regional organization in France that promotes hiking and walking activities in the Occitanie region. It focuses on developing and maintaining hiking trails, ensuring they are accessible and safe for all levels of hikers. The committee also organizes events and activities to engage the community and encourage the exploration of the region’s diverse landscapes.
Comité Régional Grand Est (Lorraine) is a regional committee in France focused on promoting hiking and walking within the Grand Est region, which includes Lorraine. This committee is involved in maintaining hiking trails, organizing regional hiking activities, and advocating for the conservation of natural areas. They aim to enhance the hiking experience by ensuring well-maintained paths and promoting the health and social benefits of walking.
Comité Régional de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté is a regional committee dedicated to promoting hiking and outdoor activities in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of France. It focuses on developing and maintaining hiking trails, organizing events to engage the community, and promoting environmental stewardship and appreciation for the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage through walking and hiking.
Comité Régional Hauts-de-France (Picardie) is responsible for promoting and developing hiking activities in the Picardie area of the Hauts-de-France region. This committee focuses on maintaining and enhancing the network of hiking trails, organizing regional hiking events, and supporting initiatives that encourage participation in hiking and the appreciation of the natural and cultural landscapes of the area.
FFRandonnée Nouvelle Aquitaine is a regional branch of the French Hiking Federation, focused on promoting and organizing hiking activities in the Nouvelle Aquitaine region of France. The organization manages and maintains a network of hiking trails, and provides resources and support to ensure that these trails are accessible for hikers of all skill levels. They also conduct educational programs aimed at fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural landscapes and environmental stewardship among the community.
Deutscher Wanderverband (German Hiking Association) is a prominent organization in Germany dedicated to promoting hiking and walking. It focuses on maintaining a vast network of hiking trails across Germany, advocating for environmental conservation, and enhancing the hiking experience through educational programs and community engagement. The association also works to preserve cultural heritage along these trails, making it a key player in the promotion of sustainable tourism and outdoor activities in Germany.
Schwäbischer Albverein e.V. is a German hiking association dedicated to maintaining and promoting hiking trails in the Swabian Alps region. This organization focuses on trail maintenance, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation. It also offers a variety of guided hikes, educational programs, and activities aimed at fostering a love for nature and regional heritage among members and the wider community.
Sauerländischer Gebirgsverein (SGV) is an association focused on hiking and nature conservation in the Sauerland region of Germany. It maintains a vast network of hiking trails and promotes environmental awareness and outdoor activities among its members and the public. The SGV also organizes guided tours, educational programs, and cultural events to enhance the appreciation of the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Odenwaldklub e.V. is a hiking association dedicated to promoting outdoor activities in the Odenwald region in Germany. The club focuses on maintaining trails, organizing guided hikes, and fostering a commitment to nature conservation and cultural heritage. It offers a variety of activities aimed at enhancing the enjoyment and accessibility of the region’s scenic landscapes for both locals and tourists.
Mährisch-Schlesischer-Sudetengebirgsverein e.V. (Moravian-Silesian Sudeten Mountain Association) is focused on promoting and maintaining hiking activities in the Sudeten mountain range area. This organization is involved in preserving the natural landscapes and cultural heritage of the region, organizing hikes, and engaging in educational activities to enhance environmental awareness and promote the benefits of outdoor activities.
Frankenwaldverein e.V. is a hiking association dedicated to promoting hiking and preserving the natural beauty of the Frankenwald (Franconian Forest) area in Germany. The organization is involved in maintaining hiking trails, organizing guided tours, and promoting local cultural heritage. It aims to enhance the experience of outdoor enthusiasts and to encourage environmental stewardship among its members and the wider community.
Schwarzwaldverein e.V. is a prominent hiking association focused on the Black Forest region in Germany. This organization is dedicated to maintaining an extensive network of hiking trails, promoting environmental conservation, and enhancing the hiking experience through various cultural and educational activities. It aims to foster a deep connection between its members and the natural landscapes of the Black Forest, encouraging responsible and enjoyable outdoor activities.
Westerwald-Verein e.V. is a hiking and conservation organization dedicated to promoting the appreciation and exploration of the Westerwald region in Germany. This association focuses on maintaining and marking hiking trails, organizing guided walks, and educating the public on the natural and cultural heritage of the Westerwald area. They aim to foster a community of outdoor enthusiasts who are committed to preserving the region’s scenic beauty.
Harzklub e.V. is a hiking association dedicated to the promotion and maintenance of hiking trails in the Harz Mountains of Germany. It focuses on encouraging outdoor activities, preserving the natural environment, and fostering cultural heritage within the region. The club organizes guided hikes, educational events, and works on environmental conservation projects to enhance the experience for hikers and to protect the region’s unique landscapes and ecosystems.
Spessartbund e.V. is a hiking organization focused on the Spessart region in Germany. It promotes the maintenance and marking of hiking trails, environmental conservation, and regional cultural heritage. The club organizes a variety of outdoor activities, including guided hikes, to encourage appreciation and responsible exploration of the Spessart’s natural landscapes.
Wanderverband Bayern e.V. is an organization dedicated to promoting hiking in the Bavarian region of Germany. It focuses on maintaining hiking trails, organizing guided hikes, and advocating for environmental conservation. This association also aims to foster a community among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, enhancing the overall outdoor experience in Bavaria.
Wilhelm-Münker-Stiftung is a foundation that supports the preservation and maintenance of hiking trails in the forested regions of Germany, particularly in the Rothaar Mountains. It focuses on environmental conservation, promoting sustainable use of natural resources, and educational projects related to nature and hiking. The foundation plays a crucial role in the stewardship of natural landscapes, ensuring that they remain accessible and preserved for future generations of hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Tourismusverband Erzgebirge e.V. is an organization dedicated to promoting tourism in the Erzgebirge, or Ore Mountains, region of Germany. The association focuses on enhancing the area’s appeal as a destination for nature, cultural, and recreational activities. It supports local businesses and attractions, develops tourism products, and markets the unique attributes of the Erzgebirge to domestic and international visitors. The aim is to boost the regional economy through sustainable tourism practices.
Ramblers GB is a prominent charity in the United Kingdom dedicated to protecting and expanding access to the countryside and promoting walking for health and pleasure. It actively works on maintaining and defending the extensive network of public footpaths across the UK. The organization also leads group walks and provides detailed walking guides to encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy the outdoors.
Long Distance Walkers Association (LDWA) is a UK-based association focused on promoting long-distance walking. It caters to those who enjoy extended walks and challenges, providing information on long-distance walking routes, organizing events, and offering social opportunities for members. The LDWA also works to ensure access to public rights of way and encourages the exploration of the countryside through walking.
Elliniki Omospondia Orivasias – Anarrichisis (Greek Mountaineering and Climbing Federation) is a national organization in Greece that promotes mountain climbing and hiking. It focuses on the development and safety of these activities, offering training, organizing expeditions, and maintaining climbing standards across Greece. The federation also plays a role in protecting the mountainous environments and fostering a community among climbers and hikers.
Magyar Természetbarát Szövetség (Hungarian Nature Friends Association) is an organization dedicated to promoting outdoor activities and nature conservation in Hungary. It organizes hikes, educational programs, and environmental protection initiatives to enhance the appreciation of Hungary’s natural landscapes. The association also focuses on maintaining trails and providing resources for safe and responsible hiking and other outdoor activities.
Mountaineering Ireland is the representative body for climbers and mountaineers in Ireland. This organization is dedicated to promoting responsible climbing and mountaineering activities, advocating for access rights, and preserving Ireland’s mountain environments. It provides training, coordinates events, and supports local climbing clubs. Mountaineering Ireland also offers resources and guidance to help improve safety and skills among its members.
Federazione Italiana Escursionismo (FIE) is an organization in Italy focused on promoting hiking and the appreciation of nature through sustainable practices. It organizes a wide range of hiking activities, provides educational resources, and supports the maintenance of trails across Italy. The FIE also emphasizes the cultural aspects of hiking, linking historical and natural sites to enrich the experience for hikers.
Lauku Celotajs is a Latvian organization dedicated to rural tourism, including hiking, cycling, and cultural experiences. It focuses on promoting sustainable and ecologically friendly tourism in the countryside of Latvia, offering information on various trails, accommodations, and local attractions. The organization helps tourists explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Latvia through well-organized travel services and guides.
Lietuvos Kaimo Turizmo Asociacija (Lithuanian Rural Tourism Association) is dedicated to promoting and developing rural tourism in Lithuania. The association works to enhance the visibility and accessibility of rural areas, encouraging visitors to explore the diverse cultural and natural landscapes through various activities such as hiking, cycling, and cultural events. It provides support to rural tourism providers, ensuring quality services and sustainable practices in the sector.
Ministère de l’Économie in Luxembourg oversees various economic activities including commerce, tourism, and industry. It plays a key role in developing and implementing national economic policies aimed at fostering growth, innovation, and sustainability within Luxembourg’s economy. The ministry also supports business development and promotes Luxembourg as a vibrant destination for business and leisure tourism.
Fédération Luxembourgeoise de Marche Populaire (FLMP) is an organization in Luxembourg dedicated to promoting walking and hiking as popular sports. The federation organizes non-competitive walking events known as “marches populaires” throughout the country, which are open to participants of all ages and aim to encourage physical activity and appreciation of the outdoors. These events provide an opportunity for people to explore different regions of Luxembourg in a sociable and health-conscious manner.
Office Régional du Tourisme du Centre et de l’Ouest in Madagascar focuses on promoting tourism in the central and western regions of the country. This organization develops and markets tourism activities and sites, aiming to attract visitors to explore the unique cultural and natural attractions of these areas. They provide information and support to tourists, enhancing their travel experience in Madagascar.
Office Régional du Tourisme Région Mullerthal – Petite Suisse Luxembourgeoise promotes tourism in Luxembourg’s Mullerthal region, also known as Little Switzerland. This office focuses on the area’s unique geological formations, lush forests, and hiking trails, providing information and services to enhance visitors’ experiences in this picturesque part of Luxembourg.
Office Régional du Tourisme – Des Ardennes Luxembourgeoises (Éislek) promotes tourism in the Ardennes region of Luxembourg. Known as Éislek, this area is characterized by its rolling hills, dense forests, and historic sites. The office provides information and services to help visitors explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Ardennes, enhancing their experience through a variety of outdoor activities and historical attractions.
Ramblers’ Association of Malta is an organization dedicated to promoting walking as a healthy, recreational, and environmentally friendly activity in Malta. It advocates for public access to walking paths and the countryside, organizes guided walks to explore Malta’s natural and cultural heritage, and works towards the conservation of natural areas. The association welcomes members of all ages, aiming to foster a community of enthusiasts who enjoy exploring the outdoors together.
Planinarski savez Crne Gore (Mountaineering Association of Montenegro) is an organization that promotes hiking and mountaineering in Montenegro. It focuses on the development and maintenance of mountain trails, education on mountain safety, and the conservation of natural environments. The association organizes various activities, including hikes and climbing expeditions, to foster a love of the mountains among residents and tourists alike.
Wandelnet is an organization in the Netherlands dedicated to promoting walking as a sustainable and healthy mode of transportation and recreation. It focuses on maintaining and developing a nationwide network of walking routes and paths. Wandelnet advocates for walker-friendly policies, works to improve the infrastructure for walking, and provides resources for route planning and guided walking experiences across the country.
Den Norske Turistforening (The Norwegian Trekking Association) is a major outdoor life organization in Norway. It focuses on promoting and facilitating outdoor activities, particularly hiking. The association manages numerous mountain cabins and marked trails across Norway to support hikers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts in exploring the country’s natural landscapes. They also provide educational resources and organize guided tours to enhance outdoor experiences and promote environmental stewardship.
Federação De Campismo E Montanhismo De Portugal (FCMP) is an organization that promotes camping and mountaineering activities in Portugal. It supports the development and management of campsites and mountain trails, organizes training and events related to outdoor sports, and advocates for the conservation of natural areas. The FCMP is dedicated to fostering a community of outdoor enthusiasts and improving access to Portugal’s diverse natural landscapes.
The Federação Portuguesa de Escalada de Competição (FPEC) is dedicated to the development and promotion of competitive climbing in Portugal. This organization oversees the organization of climbing competitions, supports the training of athletes, and works to foster a strong climbing community within the country. The FPEC also focuses on enhancing the skills of Portuguese climbers to compete at national and international levels.
Clube de Actividades de Ar Livre (CAAL) is an organization in Portugal focused on promoting outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, and mountaineering. It aims to encourage the exploration of natural landscapes, offering organized events and outings that cater to outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels. CAAL also emphasizes environmental education and the preservation of natural areas through responsible outdoor practices.
Polskie Towarzystwo Turystyczno – Krajoznawcze (PTTK) is a Polish organization dedicated to promoting tourism and local knowledge. It focuses on preserving cultural heritage and natural environments while encouraging exploration and education through organized tours, hikes, and educational events. PTTK also maintains a network of tourist facilities and trails, supporting sustainable and culturally enriching travel throughout Poland.
SKV – Siebenbürgischer Karpatenverein (Transylvanian Carpathian Society) is an organization focused on promoting hiking and maintaining mountain trails in the Carpathian Mountains, particularly in the Transylvania region. This group emphasizes the preservation of natural landscapes and cultural heritage, fostering a community of enthusiasts who enjoy exploring and conserving the mountainous areas of Romania.
Erdélyi Kárpát-Egyesület (Transylvanian Carpathian Association) is an organization based in Romania that promotes hiking, mountaineering, and the appreciation of the Carpathian Mountains. It focuses on trail maintenance, organizing outdoor activities, and fostering a community interested in preserving and enjoying the natural and cultural heritage of the Carpathians. This group plays a significant role in encouraging environmental stewardship and outdoor recreation in the region.
Nizhny Novgorod Mountain Club is an organization based in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, that promotes mountain sports such as climbing, hiking, and mountaineering. This club organizes trips and training sessions to help individuals of all skill levels improve their abilities in various mountain activities while fostering a community that values outdoor sports and environmental conservation.
Planinarski savez Srbije (Mountaineering Association of Serbia) is an organization dedicated to promoting and developing mountaineering, climbing, and hiking in Serbia. It focuses on maintaining and marking trails, educating about mountain safety, and preserving natural environments. The association also organizes various events and expeditions to foster a community of outdoor enthusiasts and to enhance the mountaineering culture in Serbia.
Klub Slovenských Turistov (Club of Slovak Tourists) is an organization based in Slovakia, dedicated to promoting tourism, particularly hiking and walking. The club organizes various outdoor activities, maintains hiking trails, and works to preserve natural and cultural heritage. It aims to foster a community of enthusiasts who appreciate and explore Slovakia’s scenic landscapes and diverse regions.
Planinska Zveza Slovenije (Alpine Association of Slovenia) is the main organization in Slovenia dedicated to mountaineering, climbing, and hiking. It oversees the development and maintenance of mountain trails, shelters, and infrastructure across Slovenia’s alpine areas. The association also focuses on promoting mountain safety, environmental protection, and provides educational programs to foster responsible outdoor activities among enthusiasts of all ages.
FEDME – Federación Española de Deportes de Montaña y Escalada (Spanish Federation of Mountain and Climbing Sports) is the national organization in Spain dedicated to promoting and regulating mountain sports, including climbing, hiking, and mountaineering. It focuses on training, safety, and environmental conservation, and represents Spain in international mountain sports activities. FEDME also works to improve infrastructure and access to mountain areas to enhance the outdoor sports experience for participants of all levels.
Federación Andaluza de Deportes de Montaña, Escalada y Senderismo (Andalusian Federation of Mountain Sports, Climbing, and Hiking) promotes these activities in Andalusia, Spain. It organizes events, manages safety standards, and works on the development and maintenance of trails and climbing areas. The federation also focuses on training programs to enhance skills and safety awareness among enthusiasts.
Federación Aragonesa de Montaña (Aragonese Mountain Federation) is an organization in the Aragon region of Spain dedicated to promoting mountain sports such as hiking, climbing, and mountaineering. It manages the safety, training, and coordination of activities related to these sports, while also working on conservation efforts to protect the natural mountain environments in the region. The federation organizes competitions and provides support and resources for mountain sports enthusiasts.
Federació d’Entitats Excursionistes de Catalunya (FEEC) and Federació Catalana d’Alpinisme i Escalada (FEEC) are two organizations that promote outdoor activities in Catalonia, Spain. They focus on hiking, climbing, and mountaineering, supporting the development and maintenance of trails, organizing events, and promoting safety and training for these activities. They aim to foster appreciation for the natural landscapes and cultural heritage of Catalonia through their programs.
Euskal Mendizale Federazioa (Basque Mountaineering Federation) is an organization in the Basque Country, Spain, focused on promoting and regulating mountaineering, climbing, and hiking activities. It oversees the development and maintenance of mountain sports infrastructure, advocates for the safety and training of participants, and engages in environmental conservation efforts within the region. The federation also organizes events and competitions to foster community and encourage the practice of mountain sports among the local population.
Svenska Turistföreningen (STF) is the Swedish Tourist Association dedicated to promoting outdoor activities and tourism in Sweden. STF manages a variety of accommodations including mountain stations and hostels, and maintains extensive hiking trails throughout the country. The association focuses on environmental sustainability and cultural education, encouraging exploration and appreciation of Sweden’s natural landscapes and heritage. They also provide travel services and information to support adventurers and tourists in experiencing Sweden responsibly.
Berner Wanderwege is an organization dedicated to promoting hiking in the Bern region of Switzerland. It focuses on maintaining and marking hiking trails, and offers detailed hiking maps and guides to enhance the walking experience. The organization also provides educational programs about safe hiking practices and environmental conservation to encourage a sustainable approach to exploring the natural landscapes of Bern.
Schweizer Wanderwege (Swiss Hiking Federation) is the umbrella organization for Swiss hiking, coordinating the maintenance and marking of a vast network of trails across Switzerland. This organization is committed to ensuring the accessibility and safety of hiking paths, promoting hiking as a healthy activity for all age groups, and advocating for the preservation of natural landscapes. They provide resources and guidance to help people enjoy the diverse and scenic walking routes Switzerland has to offer.