Where to Go Hiking in Europe in August

August is a prime hiking month in Europe; a time when the highest alpine passes are finally clear of snow, the days stretch and the mountains beckon.

Hiking in Europe in August is all about altitude. While the continent's lowlands and southern reaches bake under summer heat, the mountains come into their own: crisp air, long sightlines and trails that were buried under snowpack just weeks earlier.

Head into the Alps — whether that’s to the iconic Matterhorn or Mont Blanc massif, or the quieter ranges of Slovenia's Julian Alps — and you'll discover soaring ridgelines, rocky peaks and glacially carved valleys. Norway’s landscape of deep fjords and plunging cliffs offers ample opportunities for hiking, while in Italy, the jagged limestone Dolomites glow pink in the setting sun.

The trade-off? August is also Europe's busiest month on the trail. The most celebrated routes (such as the Tour du Mont Blanc and the Alta Via 1 in the Dolomites) require hut reservations months in advance and early starts to beat the crowds. But venture beyond the popular trails and it’s easy to find wild, uncrowded trails in places like Romania’s Retezat Mountains or the Sharr Mountains in Kosovo. For the experienced hiker who plans ahead, August is simply the best time to be in the high places.

What’s the Weather Like for Hiking in Europe in August?

In the Alps, Pyrenees and Dolomites, daytime temperatures at lower elevations typically sit between 18°C (64°F) and 26°C (79°F). Above 2,000m, the air is noticeably cooler and sharper. Clear mornings give way to spectacular views, but afternoons can bring rapid changes: thunderstorms building over the peaks are common in high summer, and should not be underestimated. The golden rule for alpine hiking in August is to start early and aim to be off exposed ridgelines before lunchtime.

In Scandinavia, August is one of the warmest months for hiking, though conditions remain moderate — typically between 10°C (50°F) and 20°C (68°F) in Norway's mountain regions. Daylight hours are still long, giving experienced hikers the latitude to cover serious distances. Expect some rain, particularly on Norway's western flanks, but spells of clear, bright weather are common and the landscapes are at their greenest.

Southern Europe is a different matter. In Greece, southern Italy and coastal Spain temperatures regularly exceed 35°C (95°F), although it begins to cool as September closes in. In these regions, high-altitude routes are far preferable to lowland trails, and any hike should begin at first light. Carry significantly more water than you think you'll need, and combine hiking with sea or lake swims.

Why Go Hiking in Europe in August?

August is the month when Europe's mountain infrastructure is fully open and the widest range of routes are accessible to experienced hikers. It's the best time for completing multi-day hut-to-hut traverses through the Alps, Pyrenees or Dolomites, with clear trails and fully open refuges.

There's a special satisfaction, too, in exploring Europe's lesser corners while most people flock to its iconic trails. Kosovo's Sharr Mountains, Albania’s Accursed Mountains and Bosnia’s Bjelasnica Mountains are remarkably uncrowded.

Best Hiking Destinations in Europe in August

Our top 10 hiking destinations for August take you to the continent's high places, from the Swiss Alps to the lesser-known Retezat Mountains in Romania.

1. Picos de Europa, Spain

• Average daytime temperatures: 23°C (73°F) to 27°C (81°F)
• Average nighttime temperatures: 16°C (61°F) to 20°C (68°F)
• Best for: mountain hikes

The Picos de Europa is a mountain range that extends across the provinces of Asturias, Cantabria, and León, characterised by jagged limestone peaks that were carved by glacial erosion, creating wide valleys. There are numerous hiking routes through the mountains, which are also in close proximity to the coast at just 12 miles (20km) away, offering ample opportunity for watersports and coastal walks.

Why hike here in August?: It’s one of the most reliable months, weather wise, with low precipitation and clear skies. Although it’s peak season, you won’t find the trails as busy as other better-known mountain areas, such as the Dolomites or the Alps.

Must-do trail(s): The Ruta del Cares, a day hike through the Cares Gorge beneath spiky limestone mountains and high cliffs pockmarked with caves.

What’s the weather like?: Delightfully warm and sunny – being a mountain environment it rarely gets too warm for hiking.

What to know before you go: The region is well serviced by mountain refugios, but you can also have a more upmarket stay in local hotels.

2. High Tatras, Slovakia

• Average daytime temperatures: 21°C (70°F) to 26°C (79°F)
• Average nighttime temperatures: 8°C (46°F) to 12°C (54°F)
• Best for: wild alpine landscapes

Slovakia’s High Tatras mountains are a compelling contrast between stony peaks studded with alpine lakes, lush meadows and forested valleys. There are plenty of hiking trails threading through this remarkable landscape, including the long distance Tatranska Magistrala trail. Despite this being peak season, it’s still possible to get off the beaten track and enjoy peaceful, uncrowded hikes.

Why hike here in August?: The weather is warm and the mountain huts are all open, offering rustic meals, snacks and even beer on tap.

Must-do trail(s): Hike to the summit of Velka Svistovka (2,038m/ 6,683ft), descending through a rugged valley to the serene Green Lake, and a dwarf pine forest to White Lake.

What’s the weather like?: It’s warm during the daytime, with cooler nights and a chance of afternoon thunderstorms – so plan hikes earlier in the day.

What to know before you go: Combine a trip to the High Tatras with nearby Slovak Paradise National Park – it’s renowned for its gorge walks, which include ladders and fixed chains.

3. The Pyrenees, France & Spain

• Average daytime temperatures: 18°C (64°F) to 24°C (75°F)
• Average nighttime temperatures: 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F)
• Best for: hut to hut hiking

The Pyrenees are a major European mountain range forming a natural border between France and Spain, known for their high glacial peaks and biodiverse natural landscapes. Needless to say, there’s plenty of scope for hiking and adventure. You could visit the UNESCO-listed Cirque de Gavarnie in the French Pyrenees for hiking and wild swimming, or hike from hut to hut round the Monte Perdido and Vignemale massifs on the border.

Why hike here in August?: This is the best time of year for accessing high altitude trails (2,500m/ 8,202ft and above), as the snow from high passes and peaks has melted. The mountain huts on these trails will all be open and fully staffed.

Must-do trail(s): The High Route of the Lost, a multi-day circular hike through two of the great massifs of the Pyrenees: Monte Perdido and Vignemale.

What’s the weather like?: Temperatures vary across the region, but you can generally expect weather to be warm and bright in the morning, with occasional afternoon showers and colder nights (especially at altitude).

What to know before you go: This is a large region to explore independently, with limited public transport in some parts – guided Pyrenees hikes can take you off the beaten track more quickly and easily.

4. The Accursed Mountains, Albania & Montenegro

• Average daytime temperatures: 19°C (66°F) to 24°C (75°F)
• Average nighttime temperatures: 14°C (57°F) to 16°C (61°F)
• Best for: wild swimming

Extending across northern Albania and into Kosovo and Montenegro, the Accursed Mountains are situated just inland from the Adriatic Sea. They’re characterised by a landscape of austere stony peaks, deep valleys and glacial lakes. Hiking here takes you very much off the beaten path, up high mountain passes, beech forests and stony ridges as you border-hop from Albania to Montenegro.

Why hike here in August?: Warm weather hikes combined with refreshing lakeside dips is a winning combination.

Must-do trail(s): Hike from the villages of Theth to Valbona, crossing the Valbona Pass (1,811m/5,942ft) for superlative mountain views.

What’s the weather like?: Typically dry, clear and warm, with cooler temperatures during the night.

What to know before you go: There are some stunning wild swim spots here. Brace yourself for a dip in the glacial lake of Mount Jezerca.

5. The Icelandic Highlands, Iceland

• Average daytime temperatures: 11°C (52°F) to 18°C (64°F)
• Average nighttime temperatures: 5°C (41°F) to 13°C (75°F)
• Best for: hikes through otherworldly volcanic landscapes

The Icelandic Highlands are a vast, otherworldly expanse of volcanic deserts, moss-covered lava fields, glacial rivers and steaming geothermal vents extending across the island’s rugged interior. One of the most well-known hikes here is the Laugavegur, a multi-day hike beginning in Landmannalaugar, a thermal landscape of rhyolite mountains and hot springs, and ending in the picturesque valley of Þórsmörk.

Why hike here in August?: The long daylight hours mean plenty of opportunity to explore. The weather is also at its warmest and most stable.

Must-do trail(s): the Laugavegur, rated one of the world’s best hikes by National Geographic.

What’s the weather like?: Mild but unpredictable, with fog, rain and clouds mixed in with some sunny days.

What to know before you go: Book campsites and huts in advance of your trek. Huts in particular get booked up quickly. If you’re on a guided hike, reservations will be made for you.

6. Lofoten Islands, Norway

• Average daytime temperatures: 12°C (54°F) to 18°C (64°F)
• Average nighttime temperatures: 6°C (43°F) to 11°C (52°F)
• Best for: Arctic island hopping

The Lofoten Islands are a Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic Circle. They’re known for their jagged volcanic peaks rising from the ocean, and their white sand beaches. Despite their northern position, the archipelago is warmed by the Gulf Stream, making the weather mild enough for adventurers to hike, kayak and even swim (if they’re feeling brave) to their hearts’ content.

Why hike here in August?: The midnight sun and 24 hour daylight leaves endless time for hiking and nature immersion.

Must-do trail(s): An overnight wilderness hike from Selfjord to Horseidvika Beach, one of the most remote corners of the archipelago.

What’s the weather like?: One of the warmer months on the archipelago, although the Arctic position can bring unpredictable rain and winds. It gets cooler as the month progresses.

What to know before you go: Wild camping is permissible on the archipelago, with plenty of beaches which are ideal for overnight stops.

7. Corsica, France

• Average daytime temperatures: 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F)
• Average nighttime temperatures: 17°C (63°F) to 20°C (68°F)
• Best for: challenging yourself

Corsica is a rugged Mediterranean island of soaring granite mountains, turquoise coves, fragrant maquis scrub and hilltop villages that blend French and Italian influences. It’s an ideal spot for kayaking, swimming and in particular hiking. The GR20 is its most well-known long-distance trail, a demanding high-mountain route that traverses the island north to south over rocky ridgelines, sharp cols and high passes.

Why hike here in August?: Trails are clear of snow and mountain huts are open. Rain is also less likely.

Must-do trail(s): The GR20, known as ‘Europe’s toughest trek’, through the granite mountains forming the island’s ‘spine’.

What’s the weather like?: Hot at lower altitudes, cooling as you climb higher. Weather conditions can bring afternoon storms.

What to know before you go: Start hiking early in the day to avoid the afternoon sun – there are lots of exposed ridges and peaks on the route.

8. Retezat Mountains, Romania

• Average daytime temperatures: 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F)
• Average nighttime temperatures: 11°C (52°F) to 15°C (59°F)
• Best for: hikes away from the crowds

The Retezat Mountains are a massif in Romania’s Carpathians, with over 20 peaks towering over 2,000m (6,562ft), their foothills wrapped in atmospheric old-growth forest and lush meadows. They’re protected as part of Retezat National Park, which is home to 1,000 plant species and animals such as the Eurasian lynx, grey wolf and brown bear. This rugged, biodiverse landscape is a haven for hikers, with numerous trails through its wilderness.

Why hike here in August?: Because the weather is at its finest, warm but not too hot, with trails and peaks snow-free. Even though it’s peak season, the mountains remain pristine and uncrowded.

Must-do trail(s): Following the main ridge towards its highest peaks: Papusa (2,508m/8,228ft) and Peleaga (2,509m/ 8,232ft), passing the iconic cliffs of Coltii Pelegii.

What’s the weather like?: Daytime temperatures are warm, dropping as you climb up to higher elevations. In this mountain environment, weather can change quickly, with occasional thunderstorms and clouds rolling in.

What to know before you go: Some of the mountain huts have limited electricity and charging points in communal areas only. Enjoy the time off-grid!

9. Rùm, Scotland

• Average daytime temperatures: 15°C (59°F) to 16°C (61°F)
• Average nighttime temperatures: 11°C (52°F) to 14°C (57°F)
• Best for: mini-expeditions

Rùm is an island off the west coast of Scotland, with no roads and 29 inhabitants. It has a rugged coastline of sea caves and rocky cliffs, while inland you’ll find heathery moorland, hidden lochans and the dramatic ridgelines of the Cuillin range. This is the place to come if you want to immerse yourself in the wilderness, and barely encounter a soul.

Why hike here in August?: You’ll enjoy warmer temperatures than the rest of the year. August is also a great time for wildlife spotting – look out for red deer, golden eagles and marine mammals such as seals and otters.

Must-do trail(s): The Rùm Cuillin Traverse, which takes you across exposed ridges and six peaks, including the island’s high point, Askival (812m/2,664ft), rewarding you with 360-degree views.

What’s the weather like?: August is one of the milder months of the year – but you can still experience all four seasons across a single day, including rain and wind!

What to know before you go: Wild camping is legal in Scotland, making Rùm a great location for a self-supported mini expedition.

10. The Swiss Alps, Switzerland

• Average daytime temperatures: 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F)
• Average nighttime temperatures: 8°C (46°F) to 12°C (54°F)
• Best for: Unparalleled alpine scenery

Around 60% of Switzerland is covered by the Swiss Alps – soaring snowcapped peaks studded with glacial lakes, their foothills carpeted with lush meadow and dense pine forest. It’s here you’ll find 48 of the Alps’ 4000ers, including Dufourspitze (4,634m/15,203ft) and the iconic crooked pyramid-shaped Matterhorn (4,478 m/14,692 ft). The walking here is exceptional, ranging from iconic multi-day treks such the Haute Route and the Matterhorn Circuit, to shorter day hikes which lead you from one mountain hut to another.

Why hike here in August?: For the prime weather conditions. Snow has melted from the trails and the sky is cloudless – it might even be warm enough for a lake dip.

Must-do trail(s): A mini version of the world-famous Matterhorn Circuit, which can be hiked over a long weekend.

What’s the weather like?: Daytime temperatures tend to be around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F)

What to know before you go: August might be peak season, but crowds tend to congregate in popular tourist spots (like the town of Zermatt and Lake Lucerne) rather than remote mountain trails. Make sure you prebook your spots for hut to hut trekking well in advance!

What to Pack for Hiking in Europe in August

Here’s an example kit list for a hiking trip in Europe in August. We’ve taken it from our Wild Summits Challenge in Romania's Retezat Mountains trip page.

Bags

• Main rucksack for your overnight kit (50-60 litres)
• Hiking pack (25-30 litres)
• Waterproof liner/drybags for kitbag or rucksack

Clothes

• Lightweight down or synthetic jacket
• Lightweight waterproof and windproof jacket
• Breathable wicking layers
• Fleece jacket or similar
• Buff or neck scarf
• Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts for hiking
• T-shirts
• Underwear and socks
• Sunglasses
• Sunhat
• Warm hat and gloves
• Something to sleep in
• Hiking boots (worn-in)
• Lightweight shoes or flip flops/sandals for when you're at the cabin

Other

• Universal travel plug adapter
• Power bank or solar charger
• Passports (and visas)
• Travel insurance documents
• Suncream
• Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
• Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
• Quick-dry towel
• Alcohol hand-gel
• Headtorch or torch
• Two reusable water bottles (1.5 litre) or a water bladder (2.5-3 litres)
• Insect repellent

FAQs

Where are the best places to go hiking in Europe in August?

Mountainous areas are the best places to hike in August, with pleasant temperatures and open trails. This includes the Alps, the Pyrenees, and lesser-known destinations such as Albania’s Accursed Mountains and Romania’s Retezat Mountains. You can also enjoy hiking in northern European destinations like the Lofoten Islands and the Norwegian Fjords.

What makes August a good time for hiking in the Alps?

August offers stable weather, long daylight hours and fully open trails in the Alps. Snow has mostly melted on high-altitude paths and alpine flora is at its peak, providing scenic views along well-established routes.

Which European mountain regions are ideal for hiking in August?

Ideal regions include the Alps (Switzerland, France, Italy), the Pyrenees (France and Spain), the Picos de Europa in Spain, the Albanian Alps, Slovakia’s High Tatras Mountains and Slovenia’s Julian Alps.

How busy are Alpine hiking trails in August compared to July?

Crowds on Alpine trails peak in July and remain busy in August, especially around popular routes like the Matterhorn Circuit. Expect busy sections near lodges and popular summits, but weekday hikes and lesser-known trails see lighter traffic.

What are the best strategies to avoid heat and crowds on August hikes?

Start early in the morning, select higher-altitude trails and explore lesser-known routes. Incorporate wild swimming spots or coastal hikes to stay cool and avoid popular weekend trails.

What gear is essential for hiking in Europe in August?

Carry lightweight layers, waterproof jackets, sturdy but breathable boots, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+), snacks and plenty of water and electrolyte drinks. Include a swimsuit for wild swimming.

Are there last-minute deals on hiking holidays in Europe for August?

Some operators, including Much Better Adventures, occasionally offer last-minute availability on trips in August, which are often discounted.

Are there guided hikes in August that combine mountains and coastal scenery?

Yes, there are plenty of options. Guided hikes in the Lofoten Islands, the Scottish island of Rùm and Greece’s Peloponnese Peninsula take you to both mountains and beaches across a single day. You can also combine a hike to Spain’s Picos de Europa mountains with a visit to the nearby Costa Verde.

What's typically included in a guided hiking trip in Europe?

Most guided hiking trips include the services of a guide, accommodation, meals and luggage transfer (if possible on the chosen route). Providers such as Much Better Adventures also include transfers to and from the airport, and extra activities – such as wild swimming or food tastings – are often included.

How much does a guided hiking trip in Europe cost?

The cost of a guided hiking trip varies according to duration, how expensive a country is and the type of accommodation on offer (camping is likely to be cheaper than hotel stays). Much Better Adventures’ Europe hiking trips range from approximately £650 to £2,000 for longer trips.