The GR5 is one of the world’s most spectacular long-distance trails, but at the same time well within the reach of moderately experienced walkers and backpackers. There is good signposting and waymarking, plus lodgings, food and drink are all available at regular intervals. The paths and tracks are generally well graded, while steep climbs are tackled on zigzag paths, so the overall gradient is not so severe. These numerous benefits mean that every summer, thousands of walkers embark on this trek.

It makes its way through the Alps from the shores of Lac Léman at Geneva to the Mediterranean at Nice, following a route of 674km (420 miles) on well-graded and well-marked paths and tracks. The route can be trekked in a month, or it can be split over a series of summer trips to prolong the enjoyment. Good public transport links across the length of the trail mean that it is easy to divide the trek into several separate trips.