Whether it’s lofty alpine vistas, jaw-dropping oceanside walkways or calming rural countryside, Europe has something compelling to offer any hiking enthusiast. In this guide we pick out the very best hikes in Europe, from short day walks with the kids through to multi-day endurance treks. Ready to get on the trail?
Best hikes in Europe: multi-day trails
1. Hadrian’s Wall (England)
Hadrian’s Wall Path, in the north of England, is an 84-mile long-distance trail between Newcastle (Wallsend) and Bowness-on-Solway.
This is a superb hike for history fans, as the trail follows the path of Hadrian’s Wall, the frontier line of the Roman Empire that was built by the Emperor Hadrian in 122.
The Wall itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with plenty of historical sites and museums to discover along the way. The trail also passes through incredible scenery, particularly in Northumberland National Park.
I hiked this trail over six days, and got to learn so much about the history of Roman Britain along the way. Following the trail brings you to the remains of Roman bathhouses, barracks, temples, and more – you can, quite literally, reach out and touch the past on this hike.
Apart from the history and the beautiful scenery of Northern England, I also think this hike is well suited for both beginners and experienced hikers. This was the first long-distance trail I did, which was the perfect experience for me.
It’s doable to start and finish in a week, so it doesn’t require too much work. You’re never too far from civilisation or help in case something went wrong.
While experienced long-distance hikers could likely complete the trail in less time, everyone can appreciate the beautiful scenery and storied history on offer.
2. Pink Granite Coast (France)
Those looking for easy coastal hikes in Europe, long or short distance, will love the trail 34 (GR34) in France. The path follows the coast of Brittany – France’s most western region – for almost 2,000 kilometres.
It starts from Mont-Saint-Michel – the second most visited French attraction – to the mouth of the Loire. It’s very scenic with different coastal landscapes: from rough seas to calm bays, from long white sandy beaches to pebble and rocky coves…
I’ve never completed the entire trail, but I’ve hiked many sections over the years. One of my favourite sections of the GR34 is the Pink Granite Coast in the north of Brittany, from Paimpol to Lannion (165 km, allow 4 or 5 days).
I find the most scenic part, which can be done as a day walk, is between Perros Guirrec and Ploumanac’h (11 kilometres return). I was mesmerised by the impressive rock formations and the original colours, creating beautiful contrasts with the water and the sky.
But it’s not only about the rocks. The small castle, the pretty lighthouse and the oratory on the beach are also very photogenic. It’s lovely to pass beaches along the way, but the water temperature in Brittany is always a little bit too fresh to my taste.
One of the good things about Brittany is that the weather rarely gets too hot, and there’s often a lovely ocean breeze. So hiking is one of the most popular activities in Brittany.
Trails are easy to access and it’s not hard to organise multi-day hikes as the public transport network is well developed, with buses connecting the small villages and direct trains to Paris from the bigger towns.
In addition, I love the local food, and there are plenty of accommodation options in lovely villages along the way.
3. Tour du Mont Blanc (France, Italy and Switzerland)
One of the first official European long-distance treks, the Tour du Mont Blanc trail completes a full circuit around magnificent Mont Blanc. Along the way, eager hikers not only get to enjoy fantastic scenery, but actually pass through three different countries.
Most people start in Chamonix, France, and hike counterclockwise to Courmayeur, Italy, and La Fouly, Switzerland, before completing the loop, but it is possible to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc in either direction and start or finish in any of the main towns along the way.
The entire trek is roughly 170 kilometres long and involves nearly 10,000 metres of elevation gain, so it is a pretty serious undertaking. We followed a common 11-day Tour du Mont Blanc itinerary but some speed hikers do it in as little as 7 days, while others opt for a leisurely 2-week pace.
While there are a few towns along the way with hotels and restaurants, in order to complete the loop it is necessary to spend several nights in mountain refuges.
Most of these provide basic dorm-style accommodation but the locations are spectacular, the meals are usually amazing and the welcome is always friendly.
One of the best things about hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc is the overall feeling of camaraderie among the trekkers, which is particularly noticeable in these great refuges.
The snow up in the passes usually sticks around until late June and by mid-September flurries are rolling back in, and many refuges start to close, so the season is very short. If you want to be guaranteed a bed at all your stops it is important to start planning around six months in advance.
4. Mestia to Ushguli (Georgia)
Located about 250 kilometres north of Kutaisi, Mestia has become one of the biggest tourist attractions in Georgia. While some visitors don’t go beyond the nearby villages, glaciers and lakes, quite a few venture onto the four-day hike from Mestia to Ushguli.
This is one of my favourite hikes in Georgia as it offers medieval towers, remote villages, snowy peaks, impressive glaciers and wild rivers. In addition, it traverses below the summits of some of the highest peaks in the region, and crosses several high passes, like the Chkhunderi Pass located at 2,700 metres.
The trek can be completed in three or four days, and is of medium difficulty. The path is pretty straightforward. I did it on my own, like most people do, and I found it easy to follow.
You can either camp in the wild or you can stay in the local guest houses that you’ll find along the circuit. The price for accommodation and food in the homestays is around 20 US dollars per night.
The best months to hike the Mestia to Ushguli Trek are from June to October. However, keep in mind that the trail gets quite crowded in July and August. If you have the chance, I recommend that you go in June or September.
5. Berliner Mauerweg (Germany)
If you’re looking for a hiking trail that’s a little different, I highly recommend the Berliner Mauerweg. This trail is roughly 160 kilometres (100 miles) long and follows the path of the Berlin Wall through the centre of Berlin and out into the countryside between Berlin and the surrounding state of Brandenburg.
The trail was set up for both hikers and cyclists, so most of it is paved, but I have come across a few sections that are dirt. Berlin is pretty flat, so aside from the length, this is not a difficult trail for beginner hikers.
Since it’s quite a long trail, you probably can’t hike the whole thing in one trip, but it’s divided into multiple sections. Choose a few, and you can base yourself in the city and take public transport to start your daily hike. There are signs along the way to remind you occasionally that you’re on the right path, and sometimes there’s even a map.
I recommend bringing your cell phone (with data) so you can follow Google Maps as well as the map on Berlin.de. Because this trail traces such a historical path, there are memorial plaques and info along the way to honour those who died trying to cross the border between east and west.
In several places, there are Berlin Wall remains as well as markers commemorating the opening of the border and the reunification of Germany.
Remember that the Berlin Wall wasn’t just one wall. There was an inner wall, an outer wall, and in most places, lots of space between the two. Because of this, the hiking trail sometimes follows one of the walls, but sometimes it follows the other, or even somewhere in between.
In a couple of places, the trail detours slightly from where the Wall stood due to logistics. For example, near Potsdam, there isn’t a way to get across the water where the east–west border was, so you hike a few miles in West Berlin territory until you reach the ferry. Yes, you get to take a ferry as part of the hiking trail.
Many tourists will end up walking along the Berliner Mauerweg while sightseeing. Attractions like the East Side Gallery, Bernauer Strasse Wall Memorial, Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie and more sit along the border between east and west Berlin.
But it’s when you get out of the centre of the city that I think it’s really enjoyable. I love being out in nature and in the silence of the trees, and it’s fascinating to know I’m walking along such an interesting piece of Berlin’s history.
6. Alpine traverse from Tegernsee to Sterzing (Germany, Austria and Italy)
An alpine traverse is one of the most epic multi-day hikes in Europe. The most famous route is the E5 trail, but I prefer the off-the-beaten-path experiences. In the summer of 2023 I did the alpine traverse comfort route from Tegernsee, Germany, through Austria and into Sterzing, South Tyrol, Italy.
In this case, the comfort route doesn’t describe the difficulty of the hike, but rather the fact that I could book it with luggage transportation, so I only had to carry my day pack, and every night was spent in a 3 to 4 star hotel, breakfast and dinner included. While I love the exertion, I also very much appreciated the amenities at the day’s end.
I did this hike in July, which is high season, but the route is great from June through September. The total length of this trek is 104 kilometres, done in seven days. I gained a total of 3,280 metres and descended 3,880 metres. Some days were quite hard, and others were easy, which was a nice mix.
The hike starts at the Tegernsee in Bavaria, Germany. It’s a stunningly beautiful area, with many photo opportunities on this easy 15-kilometre day one hike, which ends in Wildbad Kreuth.
Day two starts with a quick transfer to the starting point of the hike. This was a tough day, on which I hiked 17 kilometres, ascended 850 metres, and descended 800 metres, and crossed the border into Austria before landing in Achenkirch.
Day three offers a very scenic walk along the shores of the Achensee, which is truly stunning. An easy 13 kilometres took me to Fügen. Day four from Fügen to Hochfügen (15 kilometres) includes a gondola ride to the Spieljoch, which offers panoramic views of the Zillertaler Alps.
Day five included a very steep section on my 11-kilometre hike. I got serious mountain goat vibes on that day! But once I was at the top, I got the first true mountains views, an epic moment. The hike ended with a bus ride to Mayrhofen, which is a fun little tourist town.
On day six I crossed the main ridge of the Alps. The day starts with a bus ride, and continues through the most beautiful terrain yet. The highlight was when I reached the Pfitscherjoch at the border between Austria and Italy. The view into the Pfitschtal was simply spectacular.
Overall I highly recommend this route. While it was busy, it wasn’t unbearably so. It was nice to only carry a day pack, I had some delicious meals along the way, and whenever help was needed (think crazy rain storm that soaked me within 20 seconds) there were friendly locals to support me.
7. Laugavegur (Iceland)
The Laugavegur trail in Iceland is one of the most famous and stunning trekking routes in the country. You can easily get to the trailhead and end by local bus, making it an easy-to-reach hike for many. Therefore you will notice that it’s rather busy on the hike.
The distance of the Laugavegur is 54 kilometres, which can be covered in four days. Many also choose to trek onwards to Fimmvörðuháls to Skogar, meaning another one to two days of hiking. However, this section of the hike especially requires good weather. I attempted it twice and had to cancel both times because of foul weather.
Highlights of the Laugavegur are the coloured mountains in Landmannalaugar, the glaciers you will see around you and the green valleys around Þórsmörk, where you’ll end the walk.
Note that you cannot buy food along the way, and that you need to carry everything yourself. There are various river crossings, sometimes hip deep, and therefore bringing wading shoes is recommended.
Although the altitude is not incredibly high, you are still in alpine environment. The last time I was in Landmannalaugar (where the trail starts) it was early July and there still was a lot of snow on the hiking trails.
Generally the trail is open from end of June until the end of August and despite the fact you’re in Iceland in summer, you need to carry four-season gear without a doubt.
8. Wicklow Way (Ireland)
The Wicklow Way is a stunning 130-kilometre long-distance hiking trail that passes through the heart of the beautiful Wicklow Mountains in Ireland.
This trail is considered one of the best in Ireland for those who want to take on a multi-day hiking trip because it’s an easily accessible hike from Dublin and the diversity of landscapes it encompasses is truly breathtaking.
The hike starts near Rathfarnham, a small suburb in south Dublin, and ends in Clonegal village in County Carlow. It generally takes about seven to ten days to complete the hike depending on your fitness and speed.
On the way, you get to cross a variety of terrains, including forests, countryside villages, upland lakes, farmlands and steep hills, making it an exciting and varied experience for hikers.
When it comes to accommodation, there are several options available along the trail, including camping sites, hostels, and B&Bs. However, because the choices are limited in some of the most remote areas, booking ahead is highly recommended.
There are also plenty of villages and towns along the route where you can buy food, rest or shelter from the rain. What I loved about this multi-day hike was how remote and yet close to home (Dublin) I was.
There is no better way than walking in the Wicklow Mountains to truly appreciate the beautiful Irish countryside. While locals like me usually go on a day hike to the Wicklow Mountains on weekends, covering portions of the Wicklow Way, hiking it from start to finish in one go was an exceptional experience.
Additionally, the trail is rich in history, with ancient ruins and monuments that you can visit along the way. To me, this was one of the highlights of that trip as it provided a fascinating insight into Ireland’s past and heritage that I wouldn’t have got to see otherwise.
9. Mullerthal Trail (Luxembourg)
One of my favorite hikes in Europe is without any doubt the Mullerthal trail in Luxembourg. Not many think of Luxembourg as a hiking destination. Well, today I want to convince you of the opposite!
The eastern part of the only Grand-Duchy in the world is also known as Little Switzerland. Even though the region lacks the mountain peaks of the Alps, it has at least as many hiking trails.
One of the most famous hiking trails in Luxembourg is the Mullerthal Trail. On a length of 112 kilometres, the Mullerthal Trail passes through all the natural particularities of the Mullerthal region. The paths are all natural and lead you through forests and pastures.
However, my favorite parts are the impressive, sometimes extremely narrow canyons and bizarre rock formations. They always remind me of an enchanting fairytale and there are plenty of myths and legends around them. The difficulty is medium.
If you don’t want to do the full 112 kilometres, I highly recommend that you hike from Berdorf to Echternach, the oldest town in the country. Here, plenty of scenic cafés and bakeries will be awaiting you.
If you are wondering where to stay in Luxembourg for hiking holidays, I recommend booking a family-owned hostel or the Belair Wellness Hotel near Berdorf. It’s the ideal place to get pampered after your hike.
10. Tatra Mountains (Poland and Slovakia)
In the south of Poland, and along the bordering region of Slovakia, sit the incredible and underrated Tatra Mountains. These jagged mountain peaks are divided into the Lower and High Tatras, and can be explored via a casual day hike, or even better, by an adventurous multi-day trek.
One of my absolute favourite routes was a three-day trek that starts in the adorable mountain hamlet of Zakopane and continues through the challenging Kozia Przełęcz (pass), a narrow and steep goat trail.
Spend the night at the shelter in the Valley of Five Lakes, an amazing mountain hut that serves up traditional Polish food, and if you’re lucky, a side of traditional folk music.
Day two starts out with epic views of the ‘ponds’ and climbs over another scenic pass to the popular alpine lake, Morskie Oko. Appreciate the views, but start the steep ascent up Poland’s highest point, Rysy. Next, I literally crossed the border into Slovakia via a 8,200-foot (2,499.6-metre) high peak.
Sleep on the Slovakia side in a small mountain hut that boasts one of the most beautiful outhouse views in all of Europe, but you can be the judge of that.
On the final day, it’s all downhill into the Slovakian mountain resort town of Popradské Pleso. Keep your eyes peeled for the fit porters who are carrying supplies, including beer kegs up to the mountains huts.
This hike is amazing because of the diverse scenery, beautiful alpine lakes, and the convenient shelter system. Many sections of the trail cut through the jagged peaks, so there are a wide range of chains and ladders built into the rocks, making the trails truly thrilling.
Among the trails, you may spot some Tatra chamois running wild in the snow capped mountains. Trekking in the High Tatra Mountains has been one of my favourite hikes in all of Europe.
11. Coastal Route of the Portuguese Camino (Portugal)
The Coastal Route of the Portuguese Camino de Santiago is an amazing trek. It starts from Porto and follows the coastline all the way to Spain where it continues going by the sea past Vigo to Pontevedra, and from there it’s a couple more walking days inland to Santiago de Compostela.
The total distance of the trek is 280 kilometres, and it usually takes between 10 and 14 days to complete the whole route.
The Coastal Route offers incredible scenery, a great combination of beach and the sea with small fishing villages and interesting historical towns on the way. We walked this route in summer, and could enjoy refreshing swimming in the Atlantic Ocean and beautiful sunsets and sunrises.
The route is not a traditional wild hike where you have to carry a tent, cooking gear, food etc. with you. Walk from hostel to hostel (or albergues as they are called on the Camino), past villages and towns every day where you can stop for lunch or coffee.
You sleep every night in a bed (usually a bunk bed), you do sightseeing on the way – all you need is a sleeping bag (not all hostels have blankets) and a change of clothes. No walking with a heavy backpack for days or weeks.
Another good thing about the Coastal Route is that it’s a budget option to travel through Spain and Portugal; albergues cost 5-10 Euros, no transport expenses (you walk all the time), and you can buy food in supermarkets for 5-10 Euros. In total you’ll spend between 15 and 20 Euros per person per day, which is not much for Europe.
For those of you who love walking, being by the sea and exploring new places, the Coastal Route is a perfect alternative to a traditional holiday.
12. The Fisherman’s Trail (Portugal)
The Fishermen’s Trail in Alentejo, Portugal, is a 120-kilometre hike along an untouched, rugged, wild, and vibrant coast. Following the Atlantic Ocean on the south-west, the Fishermen’s Trail is part of the Rota Vicentina: a network of trails inaugurated in 2013 that has gained a fantastic reputation and is slowly bringing tourists to this lesser known piece of Portugal.
Staying in guesthouses and lodges along the way, the trail is the perfect beach vacation-cross-hiking adventure. Trek by day, swim in the afternoon, then indulge in fresh seafood paired with Portuguese wine by night.
The constant sound of crashing waves, enduring sunshine, and quaint fishing villages soothe the soul. It’s a true escape from city life. Plus, in a region that sees 300 days of sun per year, you’re almost certain to love the weather!
The trail is of moderate difficulty. Covering between 15 and 25 kilometres per day, the distance isn’t the true challenge. Walking through soft sand takes a toll on the legs! Always along the coast, you’ll pass dozens of species of seabirds as they nest in the cliffs and islands.
Secluded beaches of white and black sand line the coast. Inland, there are cork trees, bamboo forests, eucalyptus plants and pine. Best of all, celebrate your hike with some of the world’s best surfing in the laid-back surf towns along the way.
The Fishermen’s Trail is truly a hidden gem: see it for yourself before the masses realise its wonder!
13. Moldoveanu peak, Făgăraș Mountains (Romania)
Also called the Transylvanian Alps, the Făgăraș Mountains feature a few of the highest peaks in Romania – Moldoveanu (2,544 metres) and Negoiu (2,535 metres). For this reason, hiking to the roof of Romania (Moldoveanu peak) is very popular in summer.
However, whichever route you choose to climb Moldoveanu, keep in mind that it’s a demanding trail and it may include an overnight stay at one of the huts located high in the mountains.
My favourite ascent to Moldoveanu peak is from Bâlea Lake, along the main ridge, then up to the peak. The trail has a few slightly difficult sections equipped with cables, and it is also demanding (eight hours one way).
Once you’ve reached Moldoveanu, there are two options: sleep at the mountain refuge below Moldoveanu peak (it has basic conditions), or turn back for two hours and stay at Podragu Hut.
From my point of view, the best way to plan an ascent to the highest peak of Romania is to sleep at Pogragu Hut. The hut is situated in magnificent scenery, a glacial valley overlooking the serrated ridges and an impressive lake.
It’s possible to hike from Bâlea Lake to Podragu Hut in five hours, stay there overnight, then climb Moldoveanu peak the following morning and descend along the Viștea Valley (at least seven hours).
14. Triglav Summit via Valley of the Seven Lakes (Slovenia)
Most people think of the German Alps or the Dolomites when they think about trekking in Europe, but the Julian Alps are a completely underrated stretch of Europe’s best-known mountain range.
The Julian Alps amble between the northeastern tip of Italy and Slovenia, with many of the trails clustered in Triglav National Park. The best-known hike in the region is the long-distance Slovenian Mountain Trail (or Transverzala) where you travel up to 599 kilometres through the jagged mountains and drop out on the Adriatic Coast.
But if you’re lighter on time, hiking to the summit of Mount Triglav will still give you a glimpse of the alpine meadows, high passes, and brilliant blue lakes that make trekking in this region so awesome.
It’s a hut-to-hut route to the Triglav summit with tons of approaches based on how much time you have and your skill level. The Valley of the Seven Lakes approach is the most scenic, and usually takes three days and 40 kilometres of hiking.
While it’s a tough mountain to the summit (it’s the highest peak in Slovenia, after all!), it’s not considered technical. That said, some of the route also requires via ferrata equipment, so you’ll need to pack in a helmet, harness, and learn the via ferrata basics before starting (or go with a guide who can help you out).
15. The Camino (Spain)
The Camino is an epic 800-kilometre walk across the entirety of northern Spain. It starts just over the border in France and ends in Santiago de Compostela on Spain’s western coast. The Camino is easily one of Europe’s best hikes and draws in tens of thousands of walkers from all across the world, every single year.
It actually started out as a pilgrimage route a few hundred years ago, but is today frequented by all kinds of travellers. I am by no means religious, but couldn’t help but get swept up in the incredible spirit of togetherness you feel when walking the Camino. The route takes you through countless small Spanish towns and villages, as well as a few much larger cities.
For the entire journey, you spend your days meeting and walking with new people from all walks of life. It is a wonderful experience getting to hear their stories and sharing yours with them as well.
What’s great is that there’s no need to carry any of the typical heavy hiking gear like tents and cooking equipment. Instead, you spend each night in one of the hundreds of albergues dotted all along the route.
In the end, I walked a little over 30 kilometres every day and completed the entire Camino in 32 days. I highly recommend the Camino to everyone I meet who is passionate about hiking, and fully intend to go back and complete it once again when I am older.
16. Kungsleden / King’s Trail (Sweden)
Kungsleden, a scenic trail running through Sweden’s breathtaking mountainous landscape, offers more than 400 kilometres of hiking adventures. Also known as King’s Trail, this hike is one of the world’s most popular trails, with the section between Nikkaluokta and Abisko being the most travelled in all of Sweden.
Once the snow melts and temperatures rise in mid-June, Kungsleden welcomes thousands of ambitious hikers looking to tackle this trek. While some visitors new to hiking may want to experience simple day trips into the park, other, more advanced hikers will enjoy the full four-day trek as I did.
Much of the trail is along well-trodden paths showcasing Sweden’s dramatic landscape, with wooden bridges aiding hikers over the boggy ground and streams.
Some highlights include tranquil forests, wild moorland, gushing rivers, white-capped mountain peaks, and majestic herds of reindeer trotting throughout Sweden’s diverse landscape. Untouched and protected since the early 1900s, hikers will fall in love with the captivating Arctic landscape surrounding their every step.
One of my favourite views from the trek was from the Tjäktja Pass, where I noticed the trail descend into a vast valley filled with flowing rivers and a serene, mountainous backdrop.
I enjoyed spotting breathtaking sights of the colourful sunrise and wildlife, including majestic reindeer and countless bird species. In the end, I walked over 120 kilometres along the northern loop trek of Kungsleden and loved every second of it.
17. The 66 du Doubs (Switzerland)
Nestled in the Jura region of northwestern Switzerland lies one of the most spectacular hikes, the 66 du Doubs. This three- to four-day trek begins and ends in Saint Ursanne, totalling 66 kilometres. And, despite its remote location, this tiny village is only an hour from Basel by train.
Once you arrive, signage for The 66 du Doubs begins. You’ll pass through the center of Saint Ursanne, and, eventually, arrive at a path that disappears into the forest.
The trail is well labelled and maintained, but don’t let this deceive you. The 66 du Doubs is a moderate to difficult hike. Every section is filled with steep ascents that will challenge your physical aptitude.
But your efforts will be more than worth it. The scenery and remote villages are nothing short of marvellous. And, for me, this was the best part. I hiked through areas that are rarely visited and the solitude was refreshing.
If you love hikes that highlight nature and seclusion, then the 66 du Doubs is for you! The trail is open year-round, but, it’s best to tackle this hike in the spring or late summer.
Since this is a very remote part of Switzerland, you should plan to be totally self-sufficient. This means bringing your own camping equipment and carrying all your food.
There are several campsites, but resupply options are limited. The largest grocery store is in Saint Ursanne where you can pick up any last-minute items. Free clean drinkable water is abundant and can be found in almost every village.
18. Gower Coastal Path (Wales)
Gower is an area of outstanding natural beauty and is located on a peninsula west of Swansea, Wales. The southern part of the peninsula is lined with beaches whilst the northern end has woodlands, salt marshes and cockle beds.
Wrapping around the peninsula is a coastal path, which is 61 kilometres long. It starts in the village of Mumbles and ends in Crofty, close to the village of Pen-clawdd. People normally split the walk over 3 to 5 days. However, if 61 kilometres is too far for you, it is possible to do shorter stretches as day walks.
My two favourite stretches that can be done as shorter walks are Langland Bay to Caswell Bay, which takes less than one hour, and Port Eynon to Rhossili, which takes about four hours.
What I love about the multi-day hike is how varied the scenery is. The northern and southern ends of the peninsula look completely different. If I had to pick one I think the southern end is the prettiest. With its views out to sea, mile-long beaches but also small bays it reminds me of the beaches around Arisaig in Scotland.
Gower has a couple of hotels, apartments and cottages for rent. However, the location of the accommodation options often means that you will have to get transport from the end point of your day hike to your accommodation.
There are a few cafés along the path, but I recommend bringing a lunch pack. The two best cafés are in Langland and Rhossili – Langland’s Brasserie and The View Rhossili Kitchen.
The Gower coastal path is less well known than the Pembrokeshire coastal path, but having walked both I think the scenery in Gower is equally impressive.
Best hikes in Europe: day hikes
19. Valbona to Theth (Albania)
One of the most beautiful hikes of Albania is, in my opinion, the hike from Valbona to Theth. You will start walking from the village of Valbona in the Valbona Valley National Park and slowly make your way through a small part of the Northern Mountain Range of Albania to end up in Theth.
My favourite thing about this hike and the region is the lack of tourists. Although Albania is slowly getting a small boost of tourism, it’s not in the form of thousands of people at the same time.
On this hike from Valbona to Theth, you will cross wild rivers, see the most wonderful views and pass the Valbona pass of almost 1,800 metres. There are old, authentic villages, little bars at the houses of locals, and plenty more things to see.
One thing I love about hiking in Albania is the true, authentic wilderness that can still be found in this area. If you’re deep in the forests of the Valbona Valley National Park (which you won’t do on this hike), you can even find bears, wolves and lynxes. It’s a mesmerising national park, one of a kind that is rare to find in Europe.
The hike from Valbona to Theth will take you around six to seven hours depending on your fitness, but it’s truly worth it. When you’re visiting Albania, you have to make the time to go to the northern part of the country to visit one of the several mountain ranges. It’s an unforgettable experience.
20. Mount Aragats (Armenia)
I climbed Mount Aragats in October 2018, and it was definitely the best experience during my trip in Armenia. Mount Aragats is the highest point in Armenia and it is only 60 kilometres away from the capital city Yerevan.
Together with Jonathan from a hostel in the city, we agreed to wake up early and hire a taxi, which was very cheap. For around 60 kilometres we paid less than 15 US dollars, and the driver was super friendly.
Aragats has four peaks which are called Southern, Northern, Eastern and Western. In a day trip we managed to climb three of them. The highest and hardest one is the Northern peak of Aragats.
You definitely need to be fit and know what are you doing. I didn’t expect it, but climbing Mount Aragats Northern summit was actually quite dangerous. From ‘fake summit’ to real summit you will need to pass a difficult and thin ridge with steep cliffs on both sides.
I climbed Mount Aragats during the off season, but the weather was still good. We met some people on the Southern summit, but on the highest point, the Northern peak, we were alone! Can you imagine standing on the highest point in the country alone?
21. Green Lake (Austria)
One of my favourite places for a very scenic hike is the Green Lake in Austria. This natural jewel is located near the small town of Tragöss, about two hours from Austria’s capital, Vienna. For many, this emerald green lake is one of the most beautiful places in the country.
As soon as winter is over and temperatures rise again, the lake fills with meltwater from the surrounding mountains. Then, the Green Lake shines in the most beautiful shades of blue and green colors – therefore, locals also call it the ‘Caribbean of Austria’.
Fortunately, I don’t live far from the Green Lake and so I can manage to go there almost every year for hiking. When visiting, you can choose between many different hiking routes. The easy route starts from the parking lot and takes around 1.5 hours.
The hiking path leads through a dense forest, past two other lovely lakes and finally you will enjoy the wonderful ambience of the beautiful Green Lake. Around the lake are plenty of nice places for having a break, and if you don’t mind cold water, you can even have a swim there!
Athletic hikers can continue up to the surrounding Hochschwab-Mountains. A recommendable route is the hike to Sonnschein-Alm and then further on to Pribitz. From the Pribitz you will enjoy a spectacular view down onto the Green Lake.
22. Pirin-Vihren peak trail (Bulgaria)
The Balkans are a mountainous land. There are many mountains, small in area, but very beautiful. One of them is Pirin Mountain in Bulgaria. Its peak, Vihren (2,914 metres), is the third-highest peak of the Balkans, and one of the highest in Eastern Europe. The trail to the peak offers some of the most breathtaking views and a great experience for those who like hiking.
Pirin is located in the southwestern part of Bulgaria and it rises over Bansko, a famous winter resort and an old town with rich culture and history. But we came to our hiking adventure in summer.
From Bansko, first we approached Vihren Chalet by car, ascending from 950 to 1,980 metres in altitude, crossing the whole spruce forest zone. Vihren Chalet is the starting point of the trail, and there were a lot of hikers attacking the peak.
We started our hike in the morning, with our kids, who were the only kids on the trail. The small path ascends on the steep slope over Bistritsa valley, reaches the main summit of Pirin, then proceeds on the summit to the peak.
The trail is of relatively high difficulty, but our kids made it successful, gaining the admiration of the other hikers. Then we hiked back down to Vihren Chalet.
The whole hike was ten hours, but normally without kids it can be done in six or seven hours. We did the main trail, but there are two more difficult trails from Vihren Chalet to the peak, which we plan to ‘attack’ too next time. And the whole experience with the stunning landscape of Pirin mountain is really worth making it.
23. Pljesevica Mountain (Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina)
If you’re looking to get off the beaten track and away from the nearby crowds and tourist traps at Plitvice Lakes, then the Pljesvica Hike needs to be on your bucket list. The trail meanders upwards through the countryside, forested areas and eventually on to a steep and windy path.
Located right on the border of Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina, this is undoubtedly one of the best hikes to do in Croatia. The hike is relatively long and arduous but your reward for your efforts is a stunning plateau offering 360 panoramic views over the two countries (you can actually stand with one foot in each!).
At the summit of the hike, history and abandoned-places buffs will relish in the relics from the Yugoslav war. You’ll find remnants of an old runway, derelict bullet hole-ridden checkpoints and eerie abandoned barracks. Do take caution if you decide to explore these areas; the harsh winters and remote location means they aren’t maintained, so health and safety is lax.
Also, (and you’ll see the signage dotted around the trail at the top) do not go off the trail on the Bosnia & Herzegovina side of the trail, there are still landmines buried there (the Croatia side is absolutely fine).
The pinnacle of the trek is Croatia’s most famous rock. Scramble up to the top for a gorgeous natural stage looking out over the landscape.
The Pljesevica Trek was one of the highlights from my recent trip to Croatia. Check my full article on the stunning Pljesevica Hike where I’ll tell you exactly where to find the start of this trail, what to expect and a load of other tips on navigating this trail (after going astray several times, I’ll tell you how not to get lost!).
24. Plitvice Lakes (Croatia)
Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most gorgeous parks in the world, and has become super well known thanks to its Instagrammable status. Even though it’s very popular, Plitvice Lakes National Park is amazing for hiking.
As the first national park in Croatia, Plitvice Lakes National Park is famous for its beautiful lakes and waterfalls. The park is divided between the Upper Lakes and Lower Lakes, but most visitors usually tend to only hike through the Lower Lakes.
If you have most of the day, we loved Trail C. The trail takes between four and six hours, covers a total of five miles (eight kilometres), and also includes part of Trail A.
As such, this trail goes from the Lower Lakes (Milanovac, Gavanovac, Kaluđerovac, and Novakovića Brod), on a boat ride across Lake Kozjak, to the Upper Lakes, and on a tram ride back down to the main entrance, Entrance 1.
We loved walking along the trail and seeing the beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park, it was amazing getting to see the gorgeous blue and green tones. Because we went during the fall, we also got a taste of the autumn foliage against the blues.
We’ve heard that if you visit during the winter, the snow and frozen waterfalls are beautiful, but some trails may be closed due to the weather.
Literally any hike within Plitvice Lakes National Park is amazing, Trail C is a great way to see almost all of the park in a single day.
25. Bohemian Switzerland (Czech Republic)
Bohemian Switzerland is a unique national park covered in stunning karst formations located in the very north of the Czech Republic. It continues across the border to Germany, where the area is called Saxon Switzerland.
The most popular hike in the area is the one to the Pravčická Gate, or Pravčická brána in Czech. It’s a unique natural rock bridge – the second largest in the world. It even appeared in the Chronicles of Narnia. Right by the gate is a beautifully restored old hotel made from wood. It used to accommodate noble families visiting the area.
Since I’m Czech myself, Bohemian Switzerland is one of the areas in my country that I’m most proud of. It’s natural, it’s beautiful and well preserved. The tourists there are mostly Czechs.
The best place to start the hike is in Hřensko, a small local town. The red trail starts there. If you follow it for about 1.5 kilometers, you’ll get to Tři Prameny crossroads. Follow the signs to the left leading to the Pravčická brána. You’ll reach it after another 2.5 kilometers.
The Bohemian Switzerland National Park can be reached by a two-hour drive from Prague. There are frequent train connections as well.
26. Scafell Pike (England)
In the north-west of England, the Lake District has hundreds of superb hikes, but there’s one which is on every hiker’s list: Scafell Pike. The tallest mountain in England might not rival Everest, but that means it’s an achievable peak for anyone of average fitness.
The beauty of hiking up Scafell Pike is that you can do it in so many different ways, approaching the summit from several different locations. The most popular route is from Wasdale Head, which also happens to be the shortest.
However, this doesn’t mean it’s a walk in the park; you’ll be hiking relentlessly uphill for a couple of hours, but will be rewarded with stunning views all the way to the summit (conditions permitting, this is the English Lake District after all!).
The path to the summit is only five kilometres long, but there is little flat track to give your aching legs a break. If you take your time though there is very little to stop you making it to the top; the terrain is rough in places, but nothing too challenging.
If the weather is clear, you’ll have one of the best views in England, seeing to Scotland in the north and Blackpool in the south. You can also see virtually every peak and lake in this stunning part of England. Even if the cloud sets in as you arrive at the summit like it did for us, it’s still an atmospheric spot, and an incredibly satisfying feeling.
We recommend making an early start as the path is extremely popular, especially in the summer. If you start the track just after sunrise on a weekday you’ll find it a lot easier to park, and likely have the summit to yourself.
27. Calanques National Park (France)
Between the fishing village of Cassis, France and the bustling city of Marseille you’ll find one of the most beautiful hikes in Europe at the Parc National des Calanques.
Pronounced “Ka-lank,” calanques are the Mediterranean version of fjords. The coastline of this national park is lined with narrow inlets made of limestone over a million years old.
Boat tours leave daily from both Marseille and Cassis, but the best way to see the calanques is to hike along the steep cliffs. The blue-green waters are spectacular from above and the views are worth every step it takes to get there.
The best access to the park is from Cassis. This is the south of France, so it can be warm even in the winter. A hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water are a must. Wear shoes with a good grip, as limestone is known to be slippery. Otherwise, the hike is pretty easy. You can hike the three most popular calanques in one day.
About an hour from the park entrance, start with Port Miou. You won’t see any water until you reach the port – you may even start questioning if you’re on the right trail. Then you’ll see small boats dotting a gorgeous emerald green waterway.
Port Miou is just a tease compared to the next two calanques. Port Pin and then d’En Vau both offer more dramatic views and sparkling turquoise waters. If you need to cool off, plunge in at the small beach accessible from d’En Vau.
After a day of hiking, reward yourself with some of the region’s delicious seafood specialties. In fact, Bouillabaisse, one of the most famous French dishes, hails from this area. Enjoy it with some crusty bread, and you’ll be reenergized for another hike!
28. Randonnée du Bout du Monde (France)
Next up on our list is the Randonnée du Bout du Monde, which literally translates to ‘end of the world hike’. This hike is located in the south-east of France, in the Haute-Savoie region.
It’s right next to the Alps, and a short one-hour drive away from Chamonix and the famous Mont Blanc. Why the name, you ask? Well, this hike will take you right to the end of France, in front of a huge vertical cliff that stops the way: right on the other side is Switzerland.
This hike is definitely pretty high on my list of the best hikes in Annecy, and it’s one of my favourites in Europe. First, I love it because it’s easy to access. You can simply drive to the start of the hike, and park your car for free (if you get there early).
Second, I love it because the views you get when you arrive at the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval are absolutely breathtaking. High mountains surround you in a U-shape, with snow capped summits.
There are waterfalls absolutely everywhere, and I could easily count over 30 waterfalls flowing from the mountains around. All along the hike, which is pretty easy, I kept discovering new waterfalls on the side of the trail, each more inviting than the previous one!
And finally, the best part of the hike is when I reached the Bout du Monde after a moderate climb. I turned around and discovered an epic view over the valley, a view that had been hiding behind me for the whole climb and that I had never noticed.
On each side there were more waterfalls, and herds of sheep going about their daily lives. All in all, this 10.8-kilometre hike offers epic views without being too difficult.
29. Mount Kazbegi (Georgia)
Georgia in Eastern Europe is not one of those countries that many adventure seekers look up to for hiking. However, Georgia is a very naturally diverse country in Europe. From long stretches of beaches, mighty mountains, and countless rivers, the country has everything to offer to the adventure seeker.
Being a mountain lover, I was looking for a short and sweet hike during my seven-day road trip in Georgia. Upon researching, I found that one of the most common short hikes is in the small town of Kazbegi near the Russian border. The hike is on Mount Kazbegi, which is the tallest peak in the region.
A lonely 6th-century church sits at the top of the main viewpoint on Mount Kazbegi, which can be reached by walking through a scenic route between the lush green alpine trees on the snow-capped mountain.
It is a beginner-level easy hike of two to three hours to reach the main viewpoint, which is the Trinity church. It can alternatively also be reached by a 40-minute off-road ride for those who are not up for the hiking adventure.
The views from the Trinity church viewpoint on the mountain were absolutely breathtaking. The whole small town of Kazbegi can be seen from there, sitting in the lap of the mountains surrounding it from all directions. It is a highly recommended hike for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of Georgia within a short time.
30. Vikos Gorge (Greece)
Vikos Gorge, tucked away in the Zagorohoria region in the north of Greece, is a world away from the crowded beaches of the Greek islands. Despite its spectacular natural beauty, not many tourists make it to this authentic and untouched part of the country.
The whole time that my husband and I were hiking through Vikos Gorge, we only came across a handful of other hikers. But that’s definitely not because the gorge is not worth visiting.
In fact, it holds the Guinness world record for being the deepest gorge in the world! Being inside this natural wonder and looking up at the cliffs towering above me is something that I won’t soon forget.
The terrain is a bit rougher than the much more popular Samaria Gorge on the island of Crete, but it’s not that difficult as long as you wear sturdy and comfortable shoes. And it’s pretty impossible to get lost. You’re inside a gorge, remember, so you couldn’t really take a wrong turn even if you tried!
The trailhead for the hike is in a picturesque village called Monodendri. It’s possible to get here by bus from Ioannina, but check the schedule carefully, as departures are not that frequent.
And be sure to bring plenty of trail snacks with you, as Monodendri is not a great place to stock up. The hike finishes in Mikro Papingo, an even more beautiful village of slate-tiled houses perches on the cliffs above the gorge.
31. Hengifoss (Iceland)
One of my favourite day hikes in Iceland was Hengifoss, a remote waterfall hike in the eastern part of the country with spectacular views.
Even though Iceland is full of waterfalls, some of them really stand out from the others, and Hengifoss is a great example of this! It may not be the most well known hike in the country (yet), but it’s sure to become more popular as word spreads.
This is a giant 130-metre waterfall (one of the tallest in the country) with lines of bright red clay sandwiched between the rock layers on each side, giving it such a bizarre, unbelievable look. It’s like a waterfall from Mars.
The hike to Hengifoss has 300 metres of elevation gain and took me about one hour (minus all the time spent taking photos). As an added bonus, I got to see another nice waterfall along the way called Litlanesfoss, which is surrounded by basalt rock columns. Two incredible waterfalls in one short hike!
The Hengifoss waterfall is located in East Iceland, about 700 kilometres from Reykjavik, but it’s not hard to reach from the Ring Road. I didn’t need a four-wheel drive or any special vehicle to reach the parking area.
32. Legend trail to San Giacomo Church, Dolomites (Italy)
The Italian Dolomites has to be one of the best areas in the world for hiking. Whether you are looking for easy hikes from the top of a cable car or more adventurous multi-day treks through the mountains, you will find it all in the Dolomites, a must for your northern Italy itinerary.
We chose to base ourselves in the Val Gardena, and made several treks in this area. The one that we rate the highest and as one of the best (and most accessible) hikes in Europe is the legend trail to San Giacomo Church (the protector of all hikers!).
It is not one of the longest or toughest hikes though. It is a 7.5-kilometre circular walk out of the village of Ortisei through woodlands to areas where you can see the classic views of the rocky Dolomite peaks.
The path climbs steeply, but was not a problem carrying our young baby. Along the way, information boards tell the story of Count Jakob who is said to have built the church in the middle of the woods in gratitude for coming back alive from Santiago de Compostela. The highlight of the walk is the picturesque location of the church and the fabulous views across the valley behind.
It was the perfect short hike to begin our exploration of the Dolomites. Over the next few days we took on longer and higher treks, but this first short walk has proved to be the most memorable.
33. Mount Vesuvius (Italy)
When visiting Italy, ancient Pompeii is a must-see for any history fan. The city was preserved in such a unique way, and many don’t realise how large and advanced they actually were. You could spend days or weeks wandering through the city and its homes, colosseum, and theatre.
However, if you are planning to visit the site, it’s well worth visiting the volcano that preserved the city in such a way. Mount Vesuvius is open to hikers and it’s not difficult to climb all the way to the top.
When leaving (or arriving at) Pompeii, there is a bus that will take you most of the way to the top (do not purchase a ticket from a guy standing on the road or from the ticket office, that is for something else — you will purchase your ticket while on the bus, but you will need to be prepared with cash).
Once you are dropped off, you will hike up the mountain nearly a mile at a fairly steep incline. The hike is not dangerous in any way, and there are shops and even a small cafe at the top. You will be able to see the city of Naples from the top as well as the sea.
If you are planning to go all the way to Pompeii, a hike to Mount Vesuvius will be a beautiful added bonus to your trip.
34. Path of the Gods, Amalfi Coast (Italy)
There is a lovely part of the Amalfi Coast that does not rely just on gorgeous beaches. The Path of the Gods is one of the Amalfi Coast’s best-kept secrets. This is a fantastic journey, full of tales and legends. Prepare to trek across lush and rugged hills on a track that leads you through small alleyways and lemon trees.
The Path of the Gods, also known as the “Sentiero Degli Dei” in Italian, is an 8-kilometre hike over historic mule roads, beginning in Agerola, best renowned for its delicious mozzarella, and ending in Nocelle, just uphill from Positano.
It is a four-hour walk that ascends more than 300 metres above sea level. While this is a respectable hike, it may take longer, depending on your fitness level. Plan to spend at least five to six hours, including stops at lemon groves and panoramic Terrazas.
You will walk along the cliffs overlooking Positano, the Fjord of Furore, Praiano, and the stunning Arienzo Beach. The environment is quite fascinating, with a clear view of some of the gorgeous towns that have made the Amalfi Coast recognised.
It is not an easy walk, especially given the high temperatures in the summer, which may reach 35 degrees celsius between mid-July and mid-August. The ideal season to embark on this hike is from April to May.
The walk ends in Nocelle, close to the well-known Positano. The final stage of the Gods’ path is the hardest. You can also choose to follow a little trail down the cliff, which includes an extra 1,500-step stairway that leads to the magnificent Arienzo beach. Many people consider this as a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
35. Val Veny, Courmayeur (Italy)
Being based in Courmayeur in the Italian Alps means I am spoilt for choice when it comes to fantastic hiking opportunities.
One of my favourite walks is just a short drive from the village. Val Veny is a perfect starting point for a number of hikes, from more challenging routes heading up into the glaciers to those trails that are suitable for walking with children and even buggies.
The landscape is simply stunning, and quickly changes from forested slopes to open views of the valley and crystal clear rivers.
I was blown away by the valley when I first walked up to it, and it continues to enchant any visitors that I have, whether they are seasoned walkers or not.
The route can get busy in high summer season so I recommend getting there early to enjoy the tranquillity. We normally park at the Hobo Campsite and then walk up a well marked road from there.
Even if you are only walking as far as Cabane Du Combal where the valley opens up, I would recommend adding another 20 minutes or so onto your hike to climb up to Lago Miage. This is a glacial lake with two separate sections: one with deep blue waters, and the other with grey waters resulting from the high sediment concentrations.
The lake is surrounded by impressively tall ice cliffs, but it does mean that care should be taken when near it, as pieces of ice often suddenly break off falling into the water below. Due to climate change and glacial retreat, the lake is shrinking every year, and it is best viewed at the start of the summer.
Hiking into Val Veny is not possible in the winter months as the approaching road is closed when the area is used for skiing.
36. Preikestolen (Norway)
The Preikestolen hike in Norway is one of my favourites in Europe. I hiked it in September 2018 and loved the amazing views it offers. As you walk along the trail, you pass forests and small picturesque lakes. And reaching Preikestolen and looking down 604 metres towards Lysefjord is just incredible.
Preikestolen is about two hours away from Stavanger, and the most convenient way to get there is to take the ferry to Tau (40 minutes) and then the express bus (one hour).
The bus drops you off at the ‘Preikestolen mountain lodge’, which is the trail starting point. There is a parking lot so you can also drive there yourself. The Preikestolen, also known as Pulpit Rock, is a 25×25-metre big ledge and the end of the trail.
The official hiking season is from May to October, but with the proper gear it is possible to do this hike year-round. During the summer months it can be rather crowded, but when I was there in September the crowds had decreased a lot.
The trail to Preikestolen is 3.8 kilometres one way, so the total length is 7.6 kilometres. It has an elevation gain of 350 metres and is a mix of flat areas and steep staircases.
If you are a somewhat experienced hiker, the entire hike should take you around four hours. And if you are like me and spend a lot of time taking pictures, it might be closer to six hours, so plan accordingly.
It is possible to wild-camp close to Preikestolen, which is what I plan to do next time. Seeing the sunset and sunrise while sitting on the rock plateau is reputed to be amazing.
37. Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, Madeira Island (Portugal)
Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike is one of the most popular and best-rated hikes on Madeira Island, and trust me – if fully deserves it. The full name of the hike is “Vereda do Areeiro – PR#1”. It is a hike between two peaks of Madeira Island – Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo (the highest peak on the island). It takes about four hours to complete if you walk only one way.
The hike is officially classified as ‘difficult’, and it can be demanding to some people with a poor physical condition or vertigo. You can get to both peaks by car, but there are also multiple tour companies offering tours with a qualified guide and they also pick you up at your hotel in Funchal (the main city of Madeira).
What makes it so special? It is a beautiful walk with spectacular views. The most beautiful part of the route is around the Pico do Arieiro peak. It is there where you will find the famous narrow stairs with an abyss on both sides.
If you are lucky enough and the weather conditions permit, you will feel like you are walking above the clouds. Mountain peaks on Madeira are frequently covered in a bright, fluffy and dreamy carpet made of clouds, which is pretty spectacular.
For us, this place is particularly important. I even hiked a small bit of this walk wearing my wedding dress, as Pico do Arieiro was the place we chose for our Madeira wedding scenic photo shoot.
We highly recommend the Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo walk and to choose Madeira Island for your next hiking holidays. With the amazing hiking route network it offers, Madeira is a true heaven for all hikers.
38. Seven Hanging Valleys (Portugal)
Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is without a doubt worthy of the list of the best hikes in Europe. The linear six-hour hike follows the rugged coastline in southern Portugal and stretches from Carvoeiro to one of the world’s most astounding beaches, Praia da Marinha.
Starting with Carvoeiro boardwalk, which beautifully sits on top of the cliffside overlooking the deep, blue Atlantic Ocean, I couldn’t resist getting off the trail and exploring the cliffs through tunnels and hidden stairways.
Once the boardwalk finishes, there is a detour down the steps to Algar Seco where lots of people go for a swim in the natural pool. I chose not to as there was a strong current while I was there.
The trail continues past Vale Covo and Vale de Centeanes beach all the way to Alfanzina Lighthouse, which is the trail half-way point. At Benagil beach you need to get up on the road before the path continues, so I found it perfect to go for a swim to cool down.
Before reaching the famous Praia da Marinha, there are some incredible caves where you can look straight down through massive holes that are formed in the rocky cave roofs.
Please respect the barriers around the holes, as you can fall deep, and in most of them straight down to the swelling waves smashing into the cave walls.
Passing the iconic natural arches, you are nearly there. I really enjoyed the last part of the trail for the views of Praia da Marinha from above. It is just stunningly beautiful! Also, after the long hike under the burning sun, it was perfect to buy a cold can of Aquarius to cool down in one of the little kiosks before descending to the actual beach.
39. Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye (Scotland)
If you like waterfalls like me, then you have to do the Fairy Pools hike on the Isle of Skye. I consider it one of the easiest and most scenic hikes I have ever done.
Even of a dreary day, I thought the waterfalls flowing into crystal clear pools with the stunning Black Cullin mountains as the backdrop were stunning. I would allow an hour for the 2.4-kilometre round trip walk so that you have plenty of time for pictures.
The only part of the hike that was a bit challenging was crossing the stream on a rock bridge. I was worried I might slip and fall in the shallow water. Some people do come to swim in the Fairy Pools, but the water is a bit cold for my taste.
It’s about a 40-minute drive from the town of Portree to the Fairy Pools. Use postcode IV47 8TA in your GPS to navigate to the parking lot. It is free to visit the Fairy Pools; you don’t even have to pay for parking.
Bring along some rain gear so that you are prepared for the unpredictable Scottish weather. Get there early to beat the crowds, as the Fairy Pools are popular and parking is limited.
40. Bachledka Treetop Walk (Slovakia)
The Bachledka Treetop Walk, which is situated in the heart of the verdant forests of Pieniny National Park in Slovakia, gives you a good glimpse of the stunning natural landscapes of the Belinaske Tatras mountain range.
With a total length of 1,234 metres, the walkway will provide you with plenty of opportunities to spot the various forms of wildlife indigenous to this region.
Learn about the local flora and fauna by reading about them in each educational stop, where you will find some pictures and bits of humorous trivia that will provide a bit of entertainment for all ages.
In between the tranquil walks on stable boards, you veer into an adrenaline corner, where balance and agility are needed to continue on your trek. Perfect for both children and adults, all of these attractions are completely safe, albeit a bit scary.
The coup de grace of this fantastic walkway is the sightseeing tower, where you will be treated to panoramic views of the mountains around you.
At the centre of this tower is an adrenaline net that will test your fear of heights, as you will be gazing into a 32-metre drop as you set foot on it. Perfect for bored kids and adults, but not quite for people who are afraid of heights.
To get there, head to the Bachledova Valley, where a 45-minute walk on a well marked path will bring you to the beginning of the trail. If you are not keen on walking, watch out for the ten-person cabin lift that is currently being constructed.
41. Ojstrica, Lake Bled (Slovenia)
Hiking the two-mile Ojstrica trail loop is a must while visiting Lake Bled in Slovenia. This short, albeit steep, hike is one hundred percent worth the climb.
The trail gains 698 feet in elevation very quickly. The hike starts near the lake’s edge and works its way up through a forest to a rocky overlook. This a moderate-level trail that is steep and rocky, so wear appropriate shoes and bring trekking poles if you need the extra support.
We did this hike with two adults and two young kids, but we carried the kids most of the way due to the rocky terrain. From the Ojstrica overlook we were rewarded with unobstructed views of Lake Bled, the mountains, and Lake Bled Castle.
The stunning panoramic views of Lake Bled frame Bled Island like a portrait. This is arguably one of the best hikes in Europe because of the short distance and epic reward!
The Ojstrica trail isn’t heavily trafficked, but there will be other hikers on the trail and sitting on the rocks at the overlook. We took turns taking photos of other hikers and they took some for us too. Everyone on the trail was lovely.
If you’re looking to hike further, there are two other overlooks at higher elevations: Velika Osojnica and Mala Osonjnica. To hike these, continue the same trail that took you to the Ojstrica overlook. The entire loop with all three overlooks is 2.9 miles and gains 994 feet in elevation.
42. Ruta de Los Cahorros, Monachil (Spain)
One of my favourite hikes in the South of Spain is Ruta de Los Cahorros in Monachil, near Granada. This beautiful trek in the Sierra Nevada mountains is nothing less than an adventure accessible for both adults and children.
The Los Cahorros path starts just outside the village of Monachil and follows the river with the same name, through the forest, passing by an irrigation channel and the ruins of an old hydropower station.
Not long after there is the first hanging bridge, which crosses the river offering fantastic views towards the waterfalls coming down the tall cliffs of the mountain above.
The beauty of this trail is that you can do as much as you want from it. Many people stop at the waterfall below the longest hanging bridge, where they enjoy a refreshing swim and a nice picnic afterwards.
The most spectacular part of the trail, however, begins at this 100-year-old hanging bridge, which is 55 metres long and stands above a 15-metre-high drop.
Once crossed, the trail continues through a narrow canyon, which has metal handles from place to place to help navigate around the rocks that cover it. It’s quite fun and I thought of it as quite the adventure. As the river is only about a meter below, there is no risk of falling and injuring yourself.
After passing through a cave, the trail loops back towards the village of Monachil, on top of the cliffs this time, rather than through the canyon as before. So, prepare, as there will be a good half an hour of continuous climb, on a steep but very wide path.
As not many tourists come this way and prefer to turn around once they reach the end of the canyon, there are many chances to see wildlife here. When I did the hike, I was greeted by a herd of Iberian ibex, which allowed me to get quite close to them before they crossed the trail and ran away.
The best time to go hiking on this beautiful route is either in spring or in autumn. In summer, the high temperatures make the second part of the trail very difficult as there is no shade at all whilst going uphill.
43. Eiger Trail (Switzerland)
If you are short on time and want see a good chunk of classic Swiss scenery in one hit, the Eiger trail is a great option for you. This six-kilometre downhill (or uphill if you fancy it) trail begins at Eigergletscher station (2,340 metres) and ends at Apiglen, with the option of continuing on to Grindelwald on the valley floor.
Alighting the train at Eigergletscher, you will immediately see the massive (but quickly retreating) Eiger Glacier to your left. Take a few minutes here to appreciate the size of it; it’s quite rare to get this close to a glacier at this height.
Walking on from the trailhead, the north face of Eiger will be your constant companion for the first few kilometres. You will come in touching distance of the face, extending above you another 1,600 metres.
It’s very easy to get distracted on this trail, between the face of Eiger and the views in the valley of Grindelwald far below – this is true fairytale scenery. If you have binoculars handy you may be able to spy climbers high on the face; the Eiger north face has some of the world’s most well known climbs.
On towards Alpiglen, by now you will be congratulating yourself for selecting the downhill route. You will see waterfalls, jewel-toned lakes, alpine meadows full of flowers, and herds of extremely friendly Swiss cows that will soundtrack your hike with the syncopated clang of their cowbells, all while descending into the valley surrounded by the Bernese Alps.
The Eiger trail finishes at Alpiglen, at the extremely convenient café (read: pub). Treat yourself here to an ice-cold pint of the local Rugenbräu, and take in the views of Mittelhorn in the distance.
44. Heidi Alps Walk (Switzerland)
In the small village of Maienfeld, Switzerland is a wonderful family hike inspired by the stories of the little orphan girl named Heidi who goes to live with her grandfather, a goat herder in the mountains. My first trip here was on a cycling trip years ago, so it was a must-do destination to take our girls to when touring Europe with a little caravan.
Johanna Spyri lived in the original house that is passed on the walk, starting from the Maienfeld train station, inspired by the mountain scenery and lives of the local villagers.
We hiked through the ‘Heidi Village’ where the girls could pat goats, drink from the local fountain and see beautiful sculptures depicting Heidi, the grandfather and her friend Peter with his herd of goats.
The hike to the Heidi Alp and ‘grandfathers’ hut’ takes about two hours following a well signposted trail with signs depicting scenes from the wonderful children’s story. One of their favourites was a large replica wheelchair made from timber that was a reminder of Heidi’s friend in the story, Klara.
The hut at the top of the walk is a small café, which was a beautiful spot to have some lunch and take in the views of the mountains and meadows below.
We visited the Heidi House in Heidi Village, which is a charming little museum that depicts life as it was lived in Heidi’s time, over 100 years ago. Our girls just loved every aspect of their day spent in the meadows and villages. We had the book with us and read it together during the trip across Europe so that they were both familiar with the story again.
As the hike combined something special for the girls as well as stunning scenery, it was a perfect destination, and one that anyone can enjoy even without kids.
45. Schynige Platte to First (Switzerland)
In July 2019, I got a chance to explore the Jungfrau region in Switzerland and decided to do the 16-kilometre hike from Schynige Platte viewpoint to the summit of First.
To reach the starting point of the trail, you need to take an old cogwheel train from the village of Wilderswil up to Schynige Platte. I recommend that you start your day early, because you have about seven hours of hiking to do and you don’t want to miss the last gondola from First to the village of Grindelwald at the end of your trek. Remember to check when the last gondola departs before you start hiking.
Once you’re at Schynige Platte, follow the Panorama trail which will take you to some stunning viewpoints over Interlaken and the turquoise blue Lake Brienz. As you continue the hike, you will pass impressive rock formations, beautiful green valleys and fields of alpine flowers, perfect for a little picnic or a snack break.
From there, the terrain gets slightly more challenging with steeper ascents and occasional patches of snow as you approach Faulhorn, which is the highest section of the hike.
Once you’re past that point, it will be a relatively easy downhill walk towards First, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Bachalpsee lake and a backdrop of snow-capped Swiss Alps. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some adorable squirrel-like creatures called marmots that live in the alpine meadows.
Overall, the hike is quite strenuous. However, the majority of the ascents and descents are mild, and the unbelievably picturesque surroundings will distract you from the fatigue you might experience.
To this date, the hike from Schynige Platte to First remains one of my all-time favourites and the memories are still vivid in my mind.
Visiting Europe in the off-season? Take a look at our guide to the best winter destinations in Europe.
Are you planning a trip to South America and looking for some amazing hiking experiences? See our articles on the best hikes in Peru and best hikes in Patagonia for some more inspiration.
For practical information on specific trekking routes, see our guides to hiking the Inca Trail, the Torres Del Paine W Trek and the Colca Canyon.
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