Europe’s diverse landscape offers a myriad of hiking opportunities. From rugged coastlines and rolling countryside to alpine peaks and ancient pathways, there’s something for every type of hiker.
Here, we list the 15 best hikes in Europe that deserve a place on your hiking bucket list.
1. Tour du Mont Blanc
- Location: France, Italy, Switzerland
- Distance: 170 km
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
- Recommended Season: June to September
Tour du Mont Blanc winds its way around Western Europe’s grandest mountain, presenting mesmerizing vistas of snow-draped peaks, verdant valleys, and serene glacial lakes. Spanning France, Italy, and Switzerland, it’s a moderate-to-challenging trek best undertaken between June and September.
2. Camino de Santiago
- Location: Spain
- Distance: Varies (up to 800 km)
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Recommended Season: Spring or Autumn
Camino de Santiago, located in Spain, is more than just a trail; it’s a spiritual journey. Hikers traverse ancient towns, relishing the blend of scenic beauty and profound spirituality. With a moderate difficulty level, it’s best explored during spring or autumn.
3. Laugavegur Trail
- Location: Iceland
- Distance: 55 km
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Recommended Season: June to August
Laugavegur Trail in Iceland showcases the nation’s untouched wilderness, from erupting geysers and hot springs to the vibrant rhyolite mountains. Optimal for trekking from June to August, this moderate trail promises a raw Icelandic experience.
4. The Cinque Terre Coastal Path
- Location: Italy
- Distance: 12 km
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Recommended Season: Spring or Autumn
The Cinque Terre Coastal Path in Italy connects five charming villages set against the captivating Mediterranean coastline and is one of the best hikes in Italy. As you walk amidst terraced vineyards and azure waters, spring or autumn proves to be the perfect seasons for this moderate hike.
See our upcoming Cinque Terre Walking & Hiking Tour
5. GR20, Corsica
- Location: France (Corsica)
- Distance: 180 km
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
- Recommended Season: June to September
GR20 in Corsica is Europe’s challenging gem. Spanning France’s rugged island landscape, it takes adventurers through granite moonscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and impressive vistas, with the best months being from June to September.
6. The Lycian Way
- Location: Turkey
- Distance: 540 km
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Recommended Season: Spring or Autumn
The Lycian Way in Turkey offers an eclectic mix of sandy beaches, rugged mountains, and ancient ruins. As Turkey’s pioneering long-distance path, spring or autumn are the recommended seasons for this moderate hike.
7. The Scottish Highlands: West Highland Way
- Location: Scotland
- Distance: 154 km
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Recommended Season: May to September
The Scottish Highlands: West Highland Way captivates with its dramatic landscapes, serene lochs, and mystical glens. From May to September, hikers can bask in the moody beauty of this moderate trail.
8. The King’s Trail (Kungsleden)
- Location: Sweden
- Distance: 440 km
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Recommended Season: Summer or Winter for skiing
The King’s Trail (Kungsleden) in Sweden transports trekkers through expansive Arctic landscapes, glacial valleys, and blooming alpine meadows. Whether in summer for hiking or winter for skiing, it’s a moderate trail not to be missed.
9. Picos de Europa
- Location: Spain
- Distance: Varies
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
- Recommended Season: June to September
Picos de Europa in Spain is a hidden treasure, featuring majestic limestone peaks, profound gorges, and lush meadows. Ideal from June to September, this trail ranges from moderate to challenging.
10. The Kerry Way
- Location: Ireland
- Distance: 214 km
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Recommended Season: May to September
The Kerry Way in Ireland weaves through magical Irish landscapes, from rugged coastal cliffs to ancient woodlands and impressive mountain chains, best experienced from May to September.
11. Eiger Trail
- Location: Switzerland
- Distance: 6 km
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Recommended Season: June to September
Eiger Trail in Switzerland, though short, offers an intimate view of the legendary North Face of the Eiger Mountain, making it a must-visit from June to September.
12. Triglav National Park
- Location: Slovenia
- Distance: Varies
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
- Recommended Season: June to September
Triglav National Park in Slovenia boasts pristine lakes, Slovenia’s loftiest peak, and stunning alpine meadows. With varying levels of difficulty, it’s a hiker’s paradise from June to September.
13. The Rota Vicentina
- Location: Portugal
- Distance: 450 km
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Recommended Season: Spring or Autumn
The Rota Vicentina in Portugal is a journey along the pristine Western coast, merging the Historical Way with the Fishermen’s Trail. This moderate trek is best enjoyed during spring or autumn.
14. The Alta Via 1
- Location: Italy (Dolomites)
- Distance: 120 km
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
- Recommended Season: July to September
The Alta Via 1 takes adventurers through Italy’s heart in the Dolomites, offering limestone spires and significant World War I sites. Challenging yet rewarding, it’s best trekked from July to September.
15. The Transylvanian Alps
- Location: Romania
- Distance: Varies
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
- Recommended Season: May to September
The Transylvanian Alps in Romania promise an encounter with diverse wildlife, untouched forests, and the enigmatic Bran Castle. With a moderate to challenging terrain, it’s a journey best made from May to September.
Europe’s diverse topography offers hikers an unparalleled mix of scenic beauty, historical depth, and cultural richness. Whether you’re looking for a challenging mountain trek or a gentle coastal stroll, Europe has the perfect trail awaiting your discovery and at Go Get Lost, we offer a wide range of hiking and walking tours across numerous European destinations.
What’s the Best Season for Hiking in Europe?
The best season for hiking in Europe is generally summer, from June to September, when the weather is warmer, days are longer, and most mountain trails are free from snow.
What’s the Best Country for Hiking in Europe?
The best country for hiking in Europe is subjective, but Switzerland is often cited for its picturesque alpine landscapes and well-maintained trail network.
Resources:
- Types of Hiking Tours
- Hiking Skills Everyone Should Have
- How to Choose the Right Hiking Gear
