Top 10 Summer Hikes in Europe
We love hiking in Europe. There are just 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 destinations to hike or trek for summer 2022. Plus, many of these trips have confirmed group departures, which means you can easily sign up and go!
1. Spain & France Across the Pyrenees Hiking
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
Check this trip -> Spain & France Across the Pyrenees Hiking Tour
2. Hiking the Alpe Adria in Austria, Italy & Slovenia
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
Check this trip -> Austria, Italy & Slovenia Alpe Adria Hiking Tour
3. Iceland Natural Wonders Hiking
Experience the magic of Iceland’s volcanic landscape up close on spectacular daily hikes. From cosmopolitan Reykjavik, fly to Akureyri—Iceland’s “Capital of the North”—where your adventure begins. Explore Mt. Hverfjall’s surreal moonscape, follow pretty paths beside spring-fed rivers, and be amazed by Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. Unwind at stylish hotels and reward days on the trail with a steamy soak in geothermal baths.
Activity Level: 4 / Number of Days: 8
Check this trip -> Iceland Natural Wonders Hiking Tour
4. England Coast to Coast Hiking
Traverse the most spectacular sections of Alfred Wainwright’s 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
Check this trip -> England Coast to Coast Hiking Tour
5. Alps Tour du Mont Blanc Hiking
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
Check this trip -> Alps Tour du Mont Blanc Hiking Tour
6. Scotland Western Isles Hiking
Experience the wonders of wild and beautiful Scotland on this 9-day summer hiking adventure, including 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
Check this trip -> Scotland Western Isles Hiking Tour
7. Portugal Historic Village Hiking
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: 8
Check this trip -> Portugal Historic Village Hiking Tour
8. Slovenia Julian Alps Hiking
This challenging hiking 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 for a summer trip!
Activity Level: 4 / Number of Days: 10
Check this trip -> Slovenia Julian Alps Hiking Tour
9. France Provence Village to Village Hiking
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, journey through the spectacular landscapes of Cezanne, and go high into the limestone peaks of the Dentelles d Montmirail.
Activity Level: 3 / Number of Days: 7
Check this trip -> France Provence Village to Village Hiking Tour
10. Hiking the Via Dinarica
Discover the spellbinding landscapes of the Western Balkans on this epic 22-day summer 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
Check this trip -> Balkans Via Dinarica Hiking Tour
See Europe For Yourself! Book a Europe Hiking Adventure
Europe is the perfect destination for active adventurers who enjoy walking and hiking. Visit our Europe page for more information about all of our European adventures and get your free MT Sobek catalog!
