Richard Madden selects the finest trekking possibilities the world has to offer, spanning all corners of the globe – from the familiar to the not-so-well-known.

Most selections of the world’s best treks would include perennial favorites such as the Inca Trail, Kilimanjaro, New Zealand’s Milford and Routeburn Tracks and any number of options in the Himalayas. While some of the treks here might be less familiar, all deserve the same “classic” status.

GR20, Corsica

One of the most scenic and challenging treks in Europe. The trail traverses the high mountains of the island’s interior, crossing mountain ridges, chasms and granite slopes, and is home to shepherds who still follow a centuries-old lifestyle. Departures: June to September.

Paine Circuit, Chile

One of the world’s great trekking challenges, this 60-mile circuit of the Paine Massif in Torres Del Paine National Park passes through one of the world’s most dramatic mountain regions, famous for its pink granite towers, iridescent blue lakes and surreally sculpted glaciers. Departures: November.

High Atlas Mountains, Morocco

Centred on Jebel Toubkal (13,665ft/ 4,165m), North Africa’s highest mountain, the rugged wilderness of the High Atlas are also home to the colourful and hospitable Berber people. Departures: May to October.