This 2000 km-long international trail traces the historical path taken during the exile of the Huguenots and Waldensian.
In 1685 an era of persecution began after the King of France, Louis XIV, revoked the Edict of Nantes. Two hundred thousand Huguenots sought refuge in the Protestant lands of Europe and around the world. The Waldensians from the Piedmont valleys also went into exile and followed the same path.
Council of Europe values
The hiking trail aims to highlight the historical exile of the Huguenots and Waldensians and their step-by-step integration in the host countries as a component of our common European history and cultural heritage. It also puts the spotlight on freedom, respect for human rights, tolerance and solidarity as European core values.
The Huguenot and Waldensian Trail is certified Cultural Route of the Council of Europe since 2013.