10 Hiking Tours in Europe
Europe offers a plethora of beautiful walking and hiking destinations, each with its unique charm and natural beauty. Here are 10 of the nicest walks and hiking tours in various parts of Europe:
Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre in Italy is a beautiful coastal region famous for its hiking trails. The five coastal villages connected by scenic trails offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, terraced vineyards, and colorful houses. The main trail, called the Blue Trail, connects the five colorful villages along the coastline. To hike the trails, you’ll need to purchase a Cinque Terre Card, which also includes train rides between the villages. If you visit Cinque Terre during off-season, from November 4 until March 15, you do not need to purchase the Cinque Terre Card as all trails are free, but the best seasons for hiking are spring and autumn.
Swiss Alps, Switzerland
The Swiss Alps provide countless hiking opportunities, from gentle walks to challenging treks. With various trails for all skill levels, you can explore majestic peaks, lakes, and valleys. Some popular trails include the Eiger Trail, the Matterhorn Trail, and the Jungfrau Region. Summer is the best time to hike. Enjoy the breathtaking views and connect with nature in the Swiss Alps.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
This UNESCO-listed coastline offers spectacular coastal hikes with views of the Mediterranean Sea, charming villages like Amalfi, Positano, and terraced hillsides. The Sentiero degli Dei, or Path of the Gods, is a popular hiking trail in the Amalfi Coast. The best time to hike is during spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and the trails are less crowded. Take a break during your hike to indulge in local specialties, such as fresh pasta, mozzarella and limoncello.
Tour du Mont Blanc, France/Italy/Switzerland
This classic long-distance trek circumnavigates the Mont Blanc massif, the highest peak in Western Europe, passing through picturesque alpine landscapes, quaint villages, and lush valleys. The trek is approximately 170 kilometers long and usually takes around 7 to 10 days to complete. You’ll have the chance to explore charming towns such as Chamonix in France, Courmayeur (Valle d’Aosta) in Italy, and Champex-Lac in Switzerland.
West Highland Way, Scotland
The West Highland Way is Scotland’s most famous long-distance hiking route. Spanning approximately 154 kilometers, it winds through diverse Scottish landscapes, including rolling hills, serene lochs, and magnificent glens. The trail starts in Milngavie, just outside of Glasgow, and finishes in Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the UK. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming villages and historic sites, such as the iconic Devil’s Staircase and the ruins of Kilchurn Castle.
Picos de Europa, Spain
This rugged mountain range in northern Spain offers excellent hiking trails through enchanting forests, alpine meadows, picturesque villages, lush valleys, limestone peaks and deep gorges. The trails in the Picos de Europa range from easy walks to challenging hikes, offering options for hikers of all skill levels. Highlights of the Picos de Europa include the Naranjo de Bulnes (Picu Urriellu) peak, the glacial lakes of Covadonga, and the Cares Gorge.
Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests. The main trail in the park is the Plitvice Lakes Circuit, which takes you on a scenic journey around the lower and upper lakes. The trail is well-marked, and wooden boardwalks guide you along the paths. Enjoy the park’s famous 16 interconnected lakes, which change colors throughout the day. Swimming in the lakes is not allowed, but there are designated spots for picnics. Hiking in Plitvice Lakes National Park is an unforgettable experience that showcases the unique landscapes and rich biodiversity of Croatia.
Transylvania, Romania
The Carpathian Mountains in Transylvania are a hiker’s paradise, known for their pristine wilderness and breathtaking landscapes. Highlights of hiking in the Carpathians include exploring the Bucegi and Făgăraș ranges, witnessing the landscapes of the Piatra Craiului National Park, and visiting the Apuseni Mountains. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to spot bears, lynx, and chamois in their natural habitat. Birdwatchers will find a variety of avian species, including eagles and owls.
Lake District, England
The picturesque Lake District National Park is known for its rolling hills, serene lakes, and quaint villages. Hiking in this park offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the English countryside. Wainwright’s Coast-to-Coast Walk, the Catbells and England’s highest peak, Scafell Pike, are popular routes. Each trail showcases the region’s diverse scenery and offers a chance to connect with nature.
Another populair trail is the South West Coast Path, one of the most renowned long-distance hiking trails in England, stretching approximately 1,014 kilometers along the southwestern coastline. With views of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, fishing villages and diverse wildlife.
Trolltunga, Norway
This challenging hike rewards you with a stunning view of the Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue) rock formation in Norway’s scenic Hardangerfjord region, suspended 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet. The trail to Trolltunga is approximately 22 kilometers round trip, and the hike typically takes 8 to 10 hours to complete. The highlight of the hike is reaching Trolltunga itself—a rocky ledge that juts out horizontally from the mountainside, offering a view of the surrounding fjords and dramatic landscapes below. Due to Trolltunga’s popularity, it’s recommended to plan your hike in advance, consider starting early.
Europe as a hiking holiday destination
This list is just a glimpse into the many available hiking tours throughout Europe. There are so many incredible places to explore that it’s almost impossible to include them all. European countries should not be missed; some hiking paths even cross multiple countries, offering a unique and diverse experience.
For more information about the best hiking destinations, we encourage you to visit our Hiking Holidays page.
This article is part of the series by Conscious Travel Guide, your resource for mindful globetrotting.
