Best Hikes in Europe: Adventurous and Trail-worthy
The best hikes in Europe are those that show off the remarkable nature of the continent. It could mean anything from alpine crossings to coastal walks. Europe is made up of over 40 nations and each boasts their own culture, terrain and beauty. There are a full 10 major mountain ranges which, alongside the 100 minor mountain ranges on the continent, make up around 20% of the European landmass.
You relish nature, sports, and the idea of new panoramas? This list is for you. Discover the best hiking destinations in Europe. Discover extraordinary landscapes and undisturbed wildlife, and reward yourself with amazing experiences. Find the best hikes in Europe whether you're by yourself or with friends or family.
The Best Multi-Day Hikes in Europe
It is difficult to choose which hikes to list as the best long-distance hikes in Europe or the best trails in Europe. The recommended locations and routes are listed below to get you and your hiking boots off to a good start. Browse through to see what kind of environment, distance, or terrain catches your attention.
Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
The municipality of Lagoa is undoubtedly the most picturesque in the Algarve. This sliver of paradise is home to world-class attractions like the Chapel of Senhora da Rocha, the beaches of Cova Redonda and Carvoeiro, which were named the most beautiful in Europe, the fishing village of Ferragudo, the lighthouse of Alfanzina, the Marinha cliffs, the Albandeira beach, and the Benagil caves.
One of the most stunning hikes in all of Europe, the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is breath-taking, unforgettable, and suitable for hikers of all ages. The hike can be started at the Senhora da Rocha chapel and finished at the Carvoeiro beach. Unspoiled and amazing nature is waiting for you. The Lagoa municipality prioritises respect for the environment and provides visitors from all over the world with a memorable experience.
Plitivice Lakes
There are 8 different paths that range in length from 3 to 18 kilometres, and this national park is regarded by tourists from throughout the world as being the most beautiful national park in all of Europe. The best way to go there is to reserve a flight to the Zadar airport, a hotel room in Zadar at the best rate, and a rental car.
It takes 1.5 hours to drive from Zadar to the Plitvice Lakes. Pick your course once there. The B and C courses are the most lengthy. To fully enjoy the grandeur of these sceneries, we advise that you hike this trek in the spring or summer.
El Camino del Rey
One of the most stunning and famous hikes in Europe is "El Camino del Rey," which is roughly 50 minutes' drive from Malaga. Take the A-357 from Malaga, which will take you to the trailhead in an hour. The course's complexity can be decreased by choosing multiple exit points along the 8 km-long roads.
The Kjeragbolten hike
The Kjeragbolten trek is regarded as one of Europe's most breathtaking hikes and a favourite among hikers. The closest town is Lysebotn, which is a lovely place to visit but does not have any lodging. Therefore, we suggest that you remain in Stavanger and reserve your flight and accommodation there for the lowest price possible.
You can rent a car once you get there because Lysebotn is 3.5 hours away. The parking lot is in Ygardstl (around 20 euros for the day). This is the beginning of your quest. Enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, snap photos, keep your eyes wide open, take deep breaths, and allow the majesty of these vistas to sweep you off your feet.
Pico de Arieiro - Madeira
One of Europe's most stunning islands is Madeira. The trek from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo is unquestionably the most exciting in all of Europe. Madeira experiences consistently pleasant weather. Nevertheless, because it is always colder on the summits, we urge you to wear a warm jacket.
Even inexperienced hikers may complete the trail safely. In case you require assistance, a qualified guide can. Two kilometres of the journey from Pico de Arieiro to Pico Ruivo are uphill. Bring some water and wear comfortable shoes. Even though it may be gloomy in the morning, the fog frequently lifts by the start of the afternoon.
Adrspach-Teplice Rock Towns
Have you ever considered making a hiking trip to the Czech Republic? When you experience the breathtaking beauty that makes this hiking trail exceptional in the globe, you'll likely change your mind. We suggest scheduling this trek for the summer or fall to fully appreciate the magnificence of these six kilometres of rocks, caves, and otherworldly vistas.
Besseggen Ridge Hike
One of the most well-known and feared walks in Europe is the Besseggen Ridge hike. This 13 kilometre trip is reserved for the fittest and is a long cry from the short Sunday stroll. Book your accommodation and airfare in Bergen or Oslo for the lowest price guaranteed. You can travel to Jotunheimen by car from Oslo or by bus from Oslo. We suggest that you book a room at the vacation rental Lemonsjen-Jotunheimen-Besseggen.
Bled
You may rent a car or take a bus (12 euros) from Slovenia's capital, Ljubljana, to get to Bled Lake, one of the country's top tourist destinations. If you want to take a boat ride to the tiny island in the middle of the lake, you can increase your spending plan by 14 euros.
To enter the chapel on this tiny island and ring the bell of happiness, you will need to pay an additional 6 euros. Although a bit of a tourist trap, it's enjoyable and reasonably priced. Alternately, you may walk around and explore the woodlands of this lovely Slovenian resort or rent a bike in Bled. You can get to the top of the hill overlooking Bled Island in less than an hour, which is the ideal location to get a breathtaking photo of this one-of-a-kind location in the globe.
GR20
The GR 20 is one of Europe's most scenic and extensive hiking routes. Of course, you can complete the entire 170-kilometer route or only a portion of it. In weeks you can complete it.
The most challenging hiking track in Europe is thought to be this one, which was established in 1952. It has a lengthy length, steep hills, and frequently rains. You can travel from north to south or from south to north while stopping at one of the many shelters for the night.
Mullerthal Region
There are three roads that make up the Mullerthal trail. If you want to meander through farmland and woodlands, take route number 1. If you want to see amazing rock formations, use route number 2, and if you want to admire charming castles, take route number 3. You can select your own route or take all three.
Three peaks hiking trail
The Dolomites provide a wide variety of hiking opportunities, including 3-week and 4-hour hikes. A 5- to 6-hour path is a nice place to start for beginners. We advise you to hike the "Three Peaks Hiking Trail" to see some of this national park's most iconic sites, which are included as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Ostrog
One of the most famous locations in Montenegro is this Serbian Orthodox Church monastery, which was discovered inside the Ostrog mountain. This hike will be appealing to those who enjoy lovely landscapes as well as pilgrims. A peaceful and tranquil moment in the middle of nature.
Trolltunga
The optimum time of year to have decent visibility and a good climate is between mid-June and mid-September, so we advise you to schedule this hiking trek during that time. The most well-known and perhaps one of the most photographed cliffs in Europe is Trolltunga, which is located in Norway.
The Skjeggedal parking lot serves as the starting point of the 28 km (roundtrip) Trolltunga path. Along the trip, there is no lodging or shelter; if you wish to sleep, you must bring your own supplies. The night before you go, check the weather conditions and adjust your equipment accordingly.
Svartisen Glacier
Pack your luggage, reserve a trip to Norway's Bodo Airport, and find the most affordable hotel and car rental deals. We suggest staying at the Scandic Havet hotel, which has a fitness centre and rental bicycles accessible for visitors looking to explore Bodo.
Bring your boat trip tickets (2h30 to reach Svartisen from Bodo). You have the option of climbing the glacier by yourself or with a guide. Give yourself a break in the middle of Norway's natural splendour and allow yourself to be mesmerised by the majesty of this glacier, which is Norway's second largest glacier with a surface area of 372 square kilometres.
Norwegian Fjords
The Norwegian Fjords are a gorgeous location with a wide range of landscapes. For all kinds of hikers, there are thousands of walks here. Bring the family on hikes across blue glaciers to see mountains that rise directly from confined fjords. Alternately, explore the variety of natural parks, from lush forests to arid glaciers. Visit the famous Trolltunga, Geirangerfjord, Himakana, Langfossen, or Preikestolen if you're prepared for a challenge. Every type of hiker is welcome.
Mount Triglav
Our beloved mountain must be scaled by every true Slovenian, as well as by mountaineers travelling to this nation. There are two difficult approaches that both rely on via ferrata routes or fixed cables to assist climbers through the scree and along tight paths to reach the 2864m summit. Check out the journey from picturesque Bled that stops at Slovenia's highest mountain hut, Kredarica Hut, along the way. You may go on guided treks or go it alone, but now that there is a via ferrata in place, many people are grateful they went with a guide when they arrive. To go it alone, you must be a very skilled mountaineer and have the necessary supplies with you.
Caucasus Mountains
In Georgia, hiking allows you to explore areas that haven't been visited by many others. The barren Caucasus Mountains of Georgia have only recently become accessible to tourists. You'll see animals like deer, chamois, and marmots; lakes that shine in green, white, and turquoise; mediaeval villages and cities; and peaks that rise into the sky all around you. It is also possible to climb Mount Kazbek, the third-highest mountain in the nation.
Via Dinarica
Visit the Balkans to experience the local cuisine, music, and rich history that still remain there. More than 120 stages make up the Via Dinarica's journey through the Sharr Mountain Range and Dinaric Alps. Through Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo, Serbia, Albania, and Macedonia, it serves as an adventure and cultural corridor. Complete the entire 1930 km trail in one go, or divide it up into sections like we did on our 8-day trip from Croatia to Bosnia.
The West Highland Way
One of the most famous multi-day hikes in the world is the West Highland Way. It's safe to say that the Scottish Highlands are one of the most popular walking locations in the world in general. There is everything you require on the West Highland Way route. You go 95 miles north to Fort William, which is next to Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the UK, starting from Milngavie, a little town close to Glasgow. You will pass by the shady, shady banks of Loch Lomond as you travel and climb Conic Hill for stunning loch vistas. You'll pass through Glencoe, the Rannoch Moor, and the renowned Buachaille Etive Mor on your way to Glen Nevis and Fort William.
Canary Islands
Enter the trails after leaving the beach. Each of the three walking-friendly islands—Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and La Gomera—has its own distinct personality. The third-highest volcano in the world, pine forests, ravines, and seaside trails may all be found on Tenerife, which also has the fewest hikers of the three islands. Gran Canaria also features stunning valleys and rocky shorelines to hike around, but the vistas are better because the big volcano is absent from Gran Canaria. On La Gomera, where you may be trekking in South or Central America, the most unusual scenery can be found. Spend a long weekend trekking El Hierro if you wish to travel further.