Europe is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and diverse landscapes, offering a range of hiking opportunities for adventurers of all levels. From tranquil coastal walks to challenging alpine routes, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a peaceful hike through nature or an experienced trekker seeking a more rigorous adventure, this guide will take you through some of the top hiking trails in Europe.
1. Cinque Terre, Italy (Beginner)
The Cinque Terre region along Italy’s rugged Ligurian coast offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and colorful cliffside villages. This UNESCO World Heritage site features a series of well-maintained, interconnected trails that are perfect for beginners.
Why It’s Great for Beginners: The hikes between the five picturesque villages (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore) range from easy to moderate, with the shortest section, the Via dell’Amore (Lover’s Lane), taking just 20 minutes to complete. Even though parts of the trail can be steep, the routes are well-marked, and the reward of the stunning coastal scenery makes this a manageable adventure for novice hikers.
2. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia (Beginner to Intermediate)
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a wonderland of cascading waterfalls, emerald-green lakes, and lush forests. This Croatian gem offers hiking trails that wind through some of the park’s most picturesque areas, making it ideal for both beginners and intermediate hikers.
Why It’s Great for All Levels: The park offers a range of walking routes, most of which are easy, with wooden footbridges crossing over the lakes. However, there are longer and more demanding circuits for those wanting to explore deeper into the forested hills. The trails are well-maintained, and the park’s natural beauty makes it a fantastic introduction to hiking for novices, while its longer routes offer more experienced hikers a fulfilling day of exploration.
3. Laugavegur Trail, Iceland (Intermediate to Advanced)
Iceland’s Laugavegur Trail is one of the most famous hiking routes in the country, showcasing the country’s otherworldly landscapes. This 55-kilometer trail starts in the geothermal region of Landmannalaugar and ends in the lush Þórsmörk valley.
Why It’s Great for Intermediate to Advanced Hikers: The trail offers a moderate challenge due to the often-changing weather conditions and rugged terrain. Hikers pass by hot springs, glaciers, black sand deserts, and multicolored mountains, making it one of the most visually stunning trails in the world. This hike is best for those who have some experience and are prepared for unpredictable weather, but the dramatic landscapes make it worth the effort.
4. Tour du Mont Blanc, France, Italy, and Switzerland (Advanced)
The Tour du Mont Blanc is a legendary hiking trail that encircles the Mont Blanc massif, passing through France, Italy, and Switzerland. Covering approximately 170 kilometers, this hike is a rite of passage for serious trekkers.
Why It’s Great for Advanced Hikers: With its steep ascents, rocky terrain, and high-altitude sections, the Tour du Mont Blanc demands a high level of fitness and endurance. It typically takes between 10 and 12 days to complete the full loop, but hikers can choose shorter sections if preferred. Along the way, you’ll be treated to incredible views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and some of Europe’s most imposing peaks. This trail is not for the faint-hearted but is a must for seasoned hikers looking for a challenge.
5. West Highland Way, Scotland (Intermediate)
The West Highland Way stretches for 154 kilometers through some of Scotland’s most stunning scenery. Starting near Glasgow, it winds its way north to Fort William, passing through the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, across moors, and through rugged highland valleys.
Why It’s Great for Intermediate Hikers: Although it’s a long-distance hike, the trail is well-marked and can be broken down into manageable sections, making it suitable for intermediate hikers. The trail can be completed in about a week and offers a true taste of Scotland’s diverse landscapes—from tranquil lochs to the haunting beauty of Rannoch Moor. While not overly technical, hikers should be prepared for wet conditions and some steep climbs.
6. El Caminito del Rey, Spain (Intermediate to Advanced)
For those seeking an adrenaline-filled adventure, El Caminito del Rey in Spain offers a thrilling hike through narrow pathways attached to sheer cliffs. Located in the province of Málaga, this trail was once considered one of the most dangerous in the world but has since been restored to meet modern safety standards.
Why It’s Great for Intermediate to Advanced Hikers: While the hike itself is not overly long (about 8 kilometers), it requires a head for heights and some nerve. Hikers traverse narrow walkways suspended high above the river below, making it a challenging experience for those looking for something more exciting than a standard hike.
7. Rila Mountains, Bulgaria (Advanced)
The Rila Mountains are home to the highest peak in the Balkans, Musala, standing at 2,925 meters. Hiking through this mountain range offers a glimpse into some of Bulgaria’s most dramatic landscapes, with alpine lakes, towering peaks, and remote monasteries.
Why It’s Great for Advanced Hikers: The rugged terrain, high altitudes, and potential for unpredictable weather make the Rila Mountains best suited for experienced hikers. One of the most popular hikes is the Seven Rila Lakes trail, which offers stunning views of glacial lakes surrounded by mountain peaks. For a real challenge, consider hiking to the top of Mount Musala, which requires a high level of fitness and proper gear.
8. The Dolomites, Italy (Intermediate to Advanced)
The Dolomites in northern Italy are known for their jagged peaks, picturesque villages, and dramatic landscapes. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers numerous hiking trails for intermediate and advanced hikers, with the opportunity to experience Italian culture along the way.
Why It’s Great for Intermediate and Advanced Hikers: The Dolomites offer a variety of trails, from multi-day treks like the Alta Via routes to challenging day hikes. The Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike is one of the most popular, offering a moderately challenging trek with incredible views of the Dolomites’ most iconic peaks. For advanced hikers, routes like the Alta Via 1 or Alta Via 2 provide a more demanding but rewarding experience, traversing through some of the region’s most remote and beautiful areas.
Europe’s diverse landscapes offer something for hikers of every level. Beginners can enjoy the tranquility of places like Cinque Terre or the Plitvice Lakes, while more experienced trekkers can challenge themselves on routes like the Tour du Mont Blanc or the Dolomites. Whether you’re drawn to coastal views, mountain ranges, or historical paths, there’s a trail in Europe waiting for you. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your map, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime!