The Best Hiking Destinations in Europe
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IT TOOK ME FOREVER TO START HIKING.
I would Google things like “How to Start Hiking” and then quickly get overwhelmed by the long packing lists and advice geared towards advanced hikers on remote trails.
BUT A HOLIDAY IN BOLZANO, ITALY CHANGED ALL THAT.
I packed some sunscreen, bug repellent, and a water bottle into a backpack, tugged on the best shoes I had, and set out into the woods.
One of the reasons that Europe is so great for hiking is because of its compact geography and strong rail infrastructure — no matter where you are, chances are there’s a pretty decent hiking trail within a two hour vicinity.
That, and the unbelievable sights, sounds and smells to be found in the European wilderness. 😍
IT’S NOT AN EXAGGERATION TO SAY THAT IN SOME PARTS OF ITALY AND FRANCE, THE FOOD SERVED IN SMALL MOUNTAIN HUTS ARE FAR SUPERIOR TO MEALS SERVED IN FANCY CITY RESTAURANTS.
And if you don’t want to dedicate an entire European trip to hiking, many hiking destinations are a short distance from big cities and perfect for a day trip or excursion.
Below, I’ve collected my favorite hiking destinations in Europe.
Enjoy the inspiration!
The Best Hiking Destinations in Europe
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Italian Dolomites
The Italian Dolomites boast some of the most breathtaking scenery in Europe, and are an amazing destination in both summer and winter.
Its towering limestone peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and verdant meadows make this UNESCO World Heritage site a paradise for hikers.
Alpe de Siusi is the largest high-elevation plateau meadow in Europe and is a popular hiking destination in the Italian Dolomites.
The Dolomites boasts a hiking trail network of more than 12,000 kilometers (7,456 miles).
FROM LEISURELY, SCENIC WALKS TO CHALLENGING TREKS UP RUGGED PEAKS, THERE'S SOMETHING FOR EVERY LEVEL OF HIKER.
Be sure to explore iconic routes like the Tre Cime di Lavaredo circuit and the Alta Via 1, which offer jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountains.
Along the way, don't miss the chance to sample delicious local cuisine at mountain huts and rifugios, where you can indulge in hearty Tirolean dishes like polenta, speck, and strudel.
🔎Want to dive deeper? 12 Reasons Why You Should Visit the Italian Dolomites 👉 Read here
These are the best hiking experiences in the Italian Dolomites:
Malerweg, Germany
The Malerweg Hiking Trail sits in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains of Germany's Saxon Switzerland National Park.
This 112-kilometer trail winds its way through lush forests, dramatic gorges, and towering sandstone cliffs.
Along the route, you'll encounter charming villages, historic castles, and stunning viewpoints, including the iconic Bastei Bridge.
The Bastei Bridge, located in the Saxon Switzerland National Park, sits 40 meters tall among the Elbe Sandstone Mountains with a span of 76 meters across.
The Elbe Sandstone Mountains.
THE TRAIL IS APPROPRIATE FOR BOTH CASUAL HIKERS AND SEASONED TREKKERS.
It’s especially popular for its natural beauty, so don’t forget to pack a camera!
You’ll want to snap plenty of photos of those breathtaking vistas over the Elbe River Valley and the surrounding countryside.
These are the best hiking experiences in Germany’s Saxon Switzerland National Park:
Pyrenees, Spain
THE PYRENEES, EUROPE’S OTHER GREAT MOUNTAIN RANGE, HOLDS ITS OWN AGAINST THE ALPS WITH RUGGED PEAKS, PRISTINE LAKES, AND LUSH FORESTS.
Straddling the border between Spain and France, this range offers endless opportunities for hiking and exploration.
Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park in the Pyrenees Mountains of Spain.
A forested hiking trail in Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park in the Pyrenees Mountains of Spain.
Whether you're trekking along the iconic GR10 or summiting the majestic Pic du Midi d'Ossau, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Hikes in this region also offer glimpses of diverse wildlife, including ibex, chamois, and golden eagles.
AFTER A DAY OF HIKING, RELAX AND UNWIND IN ONE OF THE REGION'S CHARMING MOUNTAIN VILLAGES.
These are the best hiking experiences in the Pyrenees:
Bohemian Paradise, Czech Republic
In the heart of the Czech Republic's Bohemian Paradise, a fairytale landscape is waiting to be discovered.
This UNESCO Geopark is renowned for its unique sandstone rock formations, lush forests, and medieval castles, making it a must-see for hikers and nature lovers alike.
Its well-marked trails lead you through enchanted forests, past towering rock formations, and to breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the countryside.
Czech Republic's Bohemian Paradise, a UNESCO Geopark, is renowned for its unique sandstone rock formations, lush forests, and medieval castles.
The irregular, rugged peaks of the Bohemian Paradise.
Don't miss the iconic Prachov Rocks, a maze of towering sandstone formations that are perfect for exploration.
FOR AN EXTRA THRILL, TRY YOUR HAND AT ROCK CLIMBING OR CAVING IN THE PARK'S MANY CAVES AND GORGES.
After a day of hiking, relax in one of the charming villages dotted throughout the region, where you can sample traditional Czech cuisine and immerse yourself in the local hospitality.
These are the best hiking experiences in the Bohemian Paradise Geopark:
Julian Alps, Slovenia
SLOVENIA'S JULIAN ALPS ARE A PRISTINE WILDERNESS OFFERING SOME OF THE BEST HIKING IN EUROPE.
It boasts rugged peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and verdant valleys, but the big attraction is its collection of waterfalls.
Whether you're tackling the challenging trails of the Triglav National Park or exploring the tranquil beauty of the Soca Valley, you'll be treated to breathtaking scenery at every turn.
Triglav National Park in the Julian Alps of Slovenia.
The Julian Alps are famous for their waterfalls.
Thrill seekers will relish the opportunity to summit Mount Triglav, Slovenia's highest peak, for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
ALONG THE WAY, BE SURE TO STOP AND ADMIRE THE REGION'S CULTURAL HERITAGE, INCLUDING ANCIENT MOUNTAIN VILLAGES, HISTORIC CHURCHES, AND TRADITIONAL ALPINE HUTS.
After a day of hiking, recharge with a hearty meal of Slovenian specialties, such as hearty stews, fresh trout, and homemade strudel.
These are the best hiking experiences in the Julian Alps:
Interlaken, Switzerland
Nestled between the sparkling waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is a gateway to some of Switzerland's most spectacular hiking trails.
Skip the funicular and take the up and back route to the Harder Kulm viewing area, or a loop hike through Lauterbrunnen (also known as the valley of the waterfalls.)
A SHORT 30 MINUTE TRAIN RIDE WILL DELIVER YOU TO THE VILLAGE OF GRINDELWALD, AT THE BASE OF THE EIGER NORTH FACE, WHERE YOU CAN HIKE TO THE FIRST CLIFF WALK OUTLOOK.
For more of a challenge, take the Schynige Platte on a long, high altitude hike along the Loucherhorn to the Bachalpsee before ending at Grindelwald-First.
The Aare River flowing through Interlaken, Switzerland.
A waterfall in Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland.
Be sure to take the cogwheel train to the summit of the Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe, for unparalleled views of the surrounding Bernese Alps.
Along the way, keep an eye out for alpine wildlife, including ibex, marmots, and chamois.
AFTER A DAY OF HIKING, UNWIND IN ONE OF INTERLAKEN'S COZY CAFES OR RESTAURANTS, WHERE YOU CAN SAMPLE DELICIOUS SWISS CUISINE AND SOAK IN THE TOWN'S CHARMING ATMOSPHERE.
These are the best hiking experiences in Interlaken:
Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just getting started, Europe’s trails offer something for everyone.
With easy access, stunning scenery, and incredible food along the way, hiking here is an experience worth adding to your itinerary.
SO LACE UP YOUR SHOES AND HIT THE TRAILS!
Until next time,
Angela ⛰️
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