A hiking trip doesn’t have to mean ‘roughing it’. There is an alternative to subsisting on instant noodles and protein bars; to sharing a mountain refuge with fifteen other smelly hikers. The best walking holidays in Europe are, in our view at least, the ones that immerse you in wild nature and enable you to sleep comfortably at night. They give you time to explore the region you’re passing through, introducing you to its gastronomic delights and cultural attractions.
There is an alternative to subsisting on instant noodles and protein bars, to sharing a mountain refuge with fifteen other smelly hikers
You could head to Croatia’s Istria region to combine walks through rolling countryside with cheese and truffle tastings, for example, or immerse yourself in Madeira’s lush natural scenery on a hiking and yoga retreat.
The choices are endless. So, we decided to narrow down the options for you. What is 'best' in this scenario is very much in the eye of the beholder, of course, but these should get you dreaming.
What Makes a Hiking Holiday the Best?
The best hiking holidays combine beautiful scenery with excellent meals and comfortable accommodation. While they involve an element of challenge, there's also time to relax, be it with a sea swim or a sunset yoga session.
We also believe the best hiking holidays make a positive impact on the community, giving you the opportunity to shop, eat and sleep with local businesses. Hikes are also enhanced by an experienced local guide to keep you safe on the trails, and introduce you to the region's culture. All the holidays listed below are guided.
So, without further ado, here are the 15 best hiking trips in Europe, broken down into four categories: iconic/Alpine treks; coastal hikes; hidden gems; and gourmet hiking holidays.
Iconic/Alpine Treks
1. Tour du Mont Blanc: the Hotels Edition
- Number of nights: 6
- Who is this trip for?: those wanting an iconic trekking experience
- Cheeky extras: luggage transfers
- Top treat: cheesy fondue
- Where you’ll sleep: quaint Alpine hotels
The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the best-known treks in Europe for good reason. You'll see immense snowy peaks, huge glaciers, wild rivers and green valleys; and that’s just day one. The route circles the mighty Mont Blanc massif, passing though Switzerland, France and Italy on the way.
Most hikers on the TMB carry their own luggage and sleep in mountain refuges. On this holiday, you’ll be staying in hotels, giving you a better night’s sleep. You’ll refuel on delicious Alpine cuisine such as cheese fondue, tartiflette, pasta and risotto. Luggage transfer is included, meaning you’ll only carry what you need for the day.
2. A Challenging Week on the Haute Route
- Number of nights: 6
- Who is this trip for?: anyone wanting a challenge
- Cheeky extras: all meals provided
- Top treat: crème brûlée
- Where you’ll sleep: mountain huts and rural hotels
The 137-mile (220km) Walker’s Haute Route is an iconic Alps trek linking Chamonix, France with Zermatt in Switzerland. It takes you through remote, high-altitude terrain, close to glaciers and with views of famous mountain peaks like the Matterhorn (4,478m/14,692 ft) and Mont Blanc (4,805m/15,764 ft).
It’s a tough trek, making it ideal to hike with a couple of experienced guides and a like-minded group for camaraderie. On this Haute Route trip, you’ll walk some of the most spectacular sections of the route over the course of a week. Half the time will be spent in remote refuges, and the other half in cosy guesthouses with upgraded facilities.
3. A Weekend on the Matterhorn Circuit
- Number of nights: 3
- Who is this trip for?: people in search of an epic hiking weekend
- Cheeky extras: all meals provided
- Top treat: kaiserschmarrn
- Where you’ll sleep: mountain huts and hostels
Over an action-packed weekend, you’ll hike a mini version of the Matterhorn Circuit through the Swiss Alps. You’ll have amazing views of the distinctive pyramid-shaped Matterhorn as you tackle the best parts of the route, including the Edelweiss Trail and the Europaweg—the latter includes a crossing of the longest suspension bridge in the Alps.
Evenings will be spent in mountain refuges. Bond with your group and other hikers as you tuck into hearty Alpine meals such as knödel (stuffed dumplings) and kaiserschmarrn, a fluffy shredded pancake.
Coastal Hiking Holidays
4. A Relaxed Hiking and Yoga Retreat on Greece’s Evia Island
- Number of nights: 5
- Who is this trip for?: yoga-lovers
- Cheeky extras: daily yoga lessons
- Top treat: locally-produced honey
- Where you’ll sleep: a peaceful hotel with ocean views
Despite its proximity to Athens, beautiful Evia Island remains relatively underexplored. And explore it you will, on a series of day hikes across its mountainous interior. You’ll climb Mount Ochi (1,398m/4,587ft), the ‘mountain of springs’, and hike down the Agios Dimitrios Gorge to a secret beach. Regular yoga sessions will help you unwind and soothe tired limbs.
You’ll stay on the southern tip of the island at the Celini Suites Hotel. Relax by the pool and enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding mountains. Tuck into island specialities such as handmade pasta known as hilopites, and boureki (layered cheese, potato and courgette pie). Evia’s also known for its honey — you’ll visit a local beekeeper to savour it.
5. A Coastal Hike Through Portugal's Algarve
- Number of nights: 6
- Who is this trip for?: ocean lovers
- Cheeky extras: a stay in a sustainable village resort
- Top treat: Portugal’s famous custard tarts
- Where you’ll sleep: cosy guesthouses and eco retreats
Over the course of a week, you’ll hike 62 miles (100km) from Arrifana to Lagos on the Rota Vicentina, a long-distance hiking trail along Portugal’s coast. You’ll explore the remote coastline of Alentejo and the Algarve, including Cabo de São Vicente, the most south-westerly point of mainland Europe.
In the afternoons, you’ll have the chance to relax on gorgeous beaches, explore traditional villages and savour sumptuous local dishes. You’ll bed down in characterful local hotels; one night is spent in Aldeia da Pedralva, a once-deserted village whose houses have been transformed into sustainable hotel accommodation.
6. Hiking the Trails of the Italian Riviera
- Number of nights: 5
- Who is this trip for?: those in search of la Dolce Vita
- Cheeky extras: wine tastings and pesto-making
- Top treat: Italian gelato
- Where you’ll sleep: a family-run hotel
Explore Liguria, the lesser-visited western side of the Italian Riviera. Follow mule tracks and ancient roads along the coast, passing rural villages, cliffs and maritime oak forest—all with spectacular views of the shimmering Ligurian Sea. Swim in the turquoise waters to cool off after a hike.
Feast on creamy gelato, fresh seafood, pasta and pillowy focaccia. Learn to make pesto alla Genovese and taste local wines. Your base is a family-run hotel in Finale Ligure, an enchanting coastal town.
7. A Hiking and Yoga Retreat in Madeira
- Number of nights: 5
- Who is this trip for?: mindful mountain lovers
- Cheeky extras: daily yoga on a clifftop deck
- Top treat: swimming in volcanic pools
- Where you’ll sleep: a four-star hillside retreat
Discover Madeira’s diverse landscapes on coastal paths, scenic levada walks and mountain trails. Climb Pico Ruivo—the island’s highest peak—and explore the Laurisilva forest, with its ancient laurel trees and cascading waterfalls.
Between hikes, swim on secluded beaches, practise yoga and relax in your four-star hillside retreat, surrounded by lush gardens. Feast on marinated beef skewers and wheat soup, washed down with poncha (Madeira’s sugar-cane spirit).
8. A Traverse of Gran Canaria
- Number of nights: 5
- Who is this trip for?: people wanting to explore Gran Canaria's hidden side
- Cheeky extras: cheese and wine tasting
- Top treat: locally-grown coffee
- Where you’ll sleep: rural guesthouses
This through-hike takes you from Gran Canaria’s volcanic interior to its coast. Starting in Barranco de Guayadeque, you’ll ascend Pico de Las Nieves—the island’s highest point at 1,950m (6,398ft)—and the iconic Roque Nublo, before descending through Laurisilva forest to the fertile Agaete Valley. The journey ends at the coast.
Along the way, enjoy ocean swims, cheese and wine tastings, and a coffee plantation tour. Evening meals feature local cheeses, gofio (a savoury porridge made from toasted grains) and a variety of meat and vegetable dishes. Accommodation includes rural guesthouses and even a unique cave hotel.
Hidden Gems
9. A Winter Hiking Holiday in Romania’s Carpathian Mountains
- Number of nights: 3
- Who is this trip for?: snow-dusted hiking
- Cheeky extras: a visit to Romania’s deepest underwater cave
- Top treat: homemade blueberry liqueur
- Where you’ll sleep: a local guesthouse in a remote hamlet
Explore Romania's Western Carpathians (known as the Apuseni Mountains), a little-known area in Transylvania, where you'll find karst peaks, forests and an extensive cave network, all snow-dusted in winter. Hike forest trails on snowshoes to Vârtop Cave, known for its rock formations, and visit the Tăuz karstic spring, which bubbles up from Romania’s deepest cave.
In the evenings, relax in your cosy guesthouse, where you’ll refuel with traditional Transylvanian dishes made from locally grown and foraged ingredients, such as wild mushroom soup and mămăligă (polenta) served with pickled vegetables, meats and sheep’s milk cheese. Homemade blueberry liqueur will warm you up after a long hike in the snow.
10. A Multi-Adventure Escape in Wild Montenegro
- Number of nights: 4
- Who is this trip for?: all-action adventurers
- Cheeky extras: rafting and canyoning
- Top treat: traditional Montenegrin dinners
- Where you’ll sleep: mountain lodges and eco-cabins
Venture into one of Europe’s least-visited wildernesses—Durmitor National Park. Hike around glacial lakes, climb the rocky summit of Prutaš (2,393m/7,851ft) and enjoy panoramic views of the Durmitor range. There’s also the chance to raft down the Tara River, which cuts through a canyon almost 1,300m (4,265ft) deep.
Stay in rustic eco-cabins and friendly lodges, refuelling on traditional Montenegrin fare such as kačamak (maize porridge), roasted lamb, nettle chowder and locally made cheeses.
11. Hiking and Wild Swimming in Slovenia’s Julian Alps
- Number of nights: 6
- Who is this trip for?: people wanting Alpine hikes and dips
- Cheeky extras: eco-farm cheese tasting
- Top treat: dinner in a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant
- Where you’ll sleep: Alpine hotels
Hike through Slovenia’s Julian Alps, tackling dramatic peaks, forested ridges and wildflower meadows. The highlight is an ascent of Trupejevo Poldne (1,931m/6,335ft) for breathtaking views of the Špik Mountains. Cool off with wild swims in the crystal-clear waters of alpine lakes and rivers.
Sample Slovenian specialities such as homemade breads, dandelion salads and jota—a pork and sauerkraut stew. Visit an eco-farm to try local cheeses, and enjoy a three-course meal at a Michelin Bib Gourmand-recommended restaurant. Stay in a mix of charming alpine hotels and the 4-star Hotel Kranjska Gora, with an indoor pool and spa.
12. An Epic Backcountry Trek in Iceland
- Number of nights: 5
- Who is this trip for?: those wanting to get back to basics
- Cheeky extras: hiking across a glacier
- Top treat: Icelandic nature
- Where you’ll sleep: wild camping
You’ll head out on a unique mini-expedition in Vatnajökull National Park, striking out into the backcountry where few travellers ever visit. You’ll hike to the waterfalls of Tvílitihylur, which gush down basalt cliffs, and climb to a mountain ridge with a view of rhyolite peaks. A highlight is a crossing of the Skeiðarárjökull glacier, an icy expanse surrounded by mountains.
On this trip you’ll wild camp. While facilities are rustic, you’ll be surrounded by awe-inspiring nature, bathed in the golden glow of Iceland’s midnight sun, and have plenty of time to bond with your group. Food is plentiful; expedition-style meals of pasta, grilled sausages and more. Afterwards, you’ll return to Reykjavik, where you could choose to extend your trip.
Gourmet Hiking Holidays
13. A Foodie Hiking Adventure in Istria, Croatia
- Number of nights: 6
- Who is this trip for?: hikers with a foodie streak
- Cheeky extras: wine and olive oil tastings
- Top treat: a truffle-infused feast
- Where you’ll sleep: boutique stays in hilltop towns
Hike scenic trails in the ‘Tuscany of Croatia’ on this farm-to-fork adventure, exploring the very spots where your food is cultivated. Indulge in authentic tastings and meals at family-run eateries, nestled deep within the countryside.
You’ll wander through the vineyards surrounding the medieval hillfort of Završje, sampling local wine, cheese and charcuterie for lunch. Explore Istria’s hilly interior—stopping for an indulgent lunch flavoured with local truffles—before heading to the rugged Kamenjak Peninsula. Evenings are spent in carefully selected boutique hotels, with plenty of time for further culinary exploration.
14. Explore Italy’s Idyllic Prosecco Hills
- Number of nights: 5
- Who is this trip for?: wine lovers
- Cheeky extras: e-bike vineyard tours
- Top treat: Prosecco tasting
- Where you’ll sleep: a gourmet agriturismo
Despite its recent UNESCO designation, Italy’s Prosecco Hills remain blissfully under the radar. Hike part of the Prosecco Trail, weaving through vineyard-covered hills and charming towns. Climb Mount Cesen (1,400m/4,593ft) in the nearby Prealps for views stretching to the Dolomites.
Indulge in tastings at local wineries, cheese and charcuterie picnics, and sumptuous pizza and pasta dinners. Stay in an agriturismo where the chef-owner serves seasonal, farm-to-table feasts paired with plenty of fizz.
15. Hike in Spain’s Rioja Region
- Number of nights: 5
- Who is this trip for?: foodies
- Cheeky extras: e-biking trips
- Top treat: Rioja wine
- Where you’ll sleep: a boutique winery hotel
Spend a few nights exploring the glorious Rioja region in Spain’s Basque Country, where rolling vineyards are surrounded by craggy mountains. You’ll be hiking part of the Wine and Fish Route, a long-distance trail once used by muleteers, and also a section of the Way of St James (a trail on the Camino de Santiago). You'll stroll along the River Cidacos to the Arnedillo hot springs, where you can bathe.
There’s plenty of opportunity for gastronomic exploration too. You’ll try the red Rioja wine the region is known for, and visit San Sebastian to try Basque-style tapas known as pintxo. You’ll bed down in the Eguren Ugarte Hotel & Winery, which is surrounded by vineyards and has a full wine cellar.
Guided vs. Self-Guided Hiking Holidays
Choosing between a guided or self-guided hiking holiday can shape your entire experience. While going it alone may appeal to seasoned trekkers, a guided trip offers a deeper, more effortless way to explore Europe’s wild trails.
With a local guide, you don’t just follow a route—you gain insights into the landscape, history, and culture, with expert support every step of the way. Accommodation, meals, and baggage transfers are all taken care of, leaving you free to focus on the journey. Guided hikes also provide peace of mind, especially in remote regions or changing weather, and create a social, small-group dynamic that many travellers value.
If you’re after a hassle-free, immersive adventure—with none of the planning stress—guided hiking is hard to beat.
Inspired? Then check out our Hiking Adventures in Europe.