Top 10 Summer Hikes in Europe
We love hiking in Europe. There are so many possibilities from the windswept highlands of Scotland to the dizzying peaks of the Alps, the warm lavender-scented trails of Provence to the volcanic lava fields of Iceland. With 50 years of experience curating the best hikes in the world, we’ve selected our top 10 European for summer 2019. These trips all have confirmed group departures, which means you can easily sign up and go!
1. Across the Pyrenees
Hike with top European mountain guide Erik Perez on this comprehensive trek across the iconic Pyrenees from Bilbao to Barcelona. Explore the ancient mountain kingdoms of Aragón and Catalonia; marvel at the high meadows and towering cliffs of Ordeso National Park; see the majestic Gavarnie waterfall; and end each day at a charming country inn or a luxurious parador. Activity Level: 4 / Number of Days: 9
2. Hiking the Alpe Adria
Discover the highlights of the Alpe Adria, a 470-mile/43-stage trail system from the Alps to the Adriatic Sea. Along the way, experience the memorable landscapes and cultures of Austria, Italy, and Slovenia. End your adventure in the Italian town of Trieste, with dazzling Adriatic Sea vistas. Activity Level: 3 / Number of Days: 10
3. Hiking Iceland’s Eastern Fjords
With new direct flights from Denver and Seattle to Reykjavik, we’re even more excited to get adventurers off the beaten track in eastern Iceland. Here you’ll follow the spectacular Viknaslodir Trail and experience lava fields, gigantic glaciers, waterfalls, snowcapped peaks, remote sandy beaches, and an array of geothermal spectacles all on the same trip! Wrap up with a soak in the Blue Lagoon. Activity Level: 3/ Number of Days: 10
4. England Coast to Coast
Follow all 192 miles of the original “West-to-East” route from the Irish Sea to the North Sea on this epic hiking adventure. Cross three national parks: the Lake District, featuring England’s highest mountains; the rolling green hills and river valleys of the Yorkshire Dales; and the dramatic landscapes of the North Yorkshire Moors. Each day’s hike ends (with a pint) at a charming village. Activity Level: 4 / Number of Days: 16
5. Tour du Mont Blanc
The classic 10-day circuit of the Mont Blanc massif is a must for every serious hiker and it puts you right in the heart of the Alps. Follow ancient trails past giant glaciers and secret mountain lakes, and experience three countries, cultures, and cuisines. Stay in hamlets that belong in a fairy tale and discover why Forbes called our tour “the world’s most luxurious hiking trip.” Activity Level: 4 / Number of Days: 12
6. Hiking Wild Scotland
Experience the wonders of wild and beautiful Scotland on this 10-day hiking adventure, including includes Cairngorms National Park, Loch Ness, the ancient Caledonian Pine Forest, and the stunning Isle of Skye. Enjoy a tipple at Tomatin Whisky Distillery and experience warm Scottish hospitality every step of the way. Activity Level: 3 / Number of Days: 9
7. Hiking Portugal’s Historic Villages
On this immersive journey, travel from one picturesque village to another, learning about Portugal’s people, culture, and rich history. Hear tales of Roman rule and successive invasions by Visigoths and Moors and hear the haunting sounds of fado on a walking tour of Lisbon’s old quarter. Marvel at stunning views from a mountaintop castle overlooking “the most Portuguese village in Portugal.” Activity Level: 3 / Number of Days: 9
8. Hiking Slovenia’s Julian Alps
This challenging trip takes in the wonders of western Slovenia’s alpine scenery, from the awe-inspiring Julian Alps to the Soca River bedecked in glowing turquoise, to the fairy-tale castle on Lake Bled. Along the way, sleep in charming hotels with spa amenities, and sample Slovenia’s delicious cuisine and luscious red wines. It’s a trekker’s dream! Activity Level: 4 / Number of Days: 10
9. Hiking Provence: Hilltop Villages to Les Calanques
Take in a true hiker’s Provence as you follow trails over rolling hills and through olive groves, from medieval villages to the great vineyards of the Cotes du Rhone wine domains. Wander through fields of lavender and wild herbs, and end your journey at the limestone inlets of Calanques—Frances’s newest national park! Activity Level: 3 / Number of Days: 12
10. Hiking the Via Dinarica
Discover the spellbinding landscapes of the Western Balkans on this epic 22-day hiking adventure from Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, across Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo and down to Albania. Summit some of the Dinaric Alps’ highest peaks, explore six Balkan national parks, even raft the Tara River’s Class II-IV whitewater rapids. Activity Level 4 / Number of Days: 22
Interested in these trips? Click on the images to learn more and download your itinerary.