Top 12 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 over 50 years of experience curating the best hikes in the world, we’ve selected our top 12 European hiking adventures to explore or trek for summer 2026. Plus, many of these trips have confirmed group departures on guided hiking tours in Europe, 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 Ordesa 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
How to hike in the Pyrenees? –> Join the 9-day Spain & France Across the Pyrenees Hiking Tour
2. Hiking the Alpe Adria in Austria, Italy & Slovenia
Discover the highlights of the Alpe-Adria Trail, 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
How to hike the Alpe Adria? –> Join 9-day 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
How to hike in Iceland? –> Join 8-day 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
How to hike in England? –> Join 10-day England Coast to Coast Hiking Tour
5. Alps Tour du Mont Blanc Hiking
The classic 12-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
How to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc? –> Join 12-day 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
How to hike in Scotland? –> Join 9-day 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
How to hike in Portugal? –> Join 8-day 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
How to hike in Slovenia’s Julian Alps? –> Join 10-day 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 de Montmirail.
Activity Level: 3 / Number of Days: 7
How to hike in Provence? –> Join 7-day France Provence Village to Village Hiking Tour
10. Hiking the Best of the Via Dinarica
Journey deep into the Balkans, tracing the wild spine of the Dinaric Alps from Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Olympic slopes to Albania’s dramatic Accursed Mountains on the Via Dinarica—a 1,200-mile network of trails through the Balkans. Scale rugged peaks and high passes for rewarding 360-degree views of craggy crests and glacial valleys. Raft the turquoise Tara River through a sheer gorge. Off the trail, experience the region’s complex history and living culture hands-on.
Activity Level 4 / Number of Days: 13
How to hike the Via Dinarica? –> Join 13-day Balkans Via Dinarica Hiking Tour
11. Italy Dolomites Hiking with Premier Lodging
This adventure brings big days (3,000+ ft climbs, up to 10 miles), jaw‑dropping Dolomite scenery, and cozy nights in historic mountain huts tucked high in the peaks for a Dolomites premier lodging experience. Hike hut to hut the way mountaineers have for generations, moving through some of the most spectacular landscapes on earth with expert guides. Then, cap it all off in Venice for a well‑earned post‑trek unwind.
Activity Level 3 / Number of Days: 7
How to hike the Dolomites? -> Join 7-day Italy Dolomites Hiking with Premier Lodging
12. Ireland North to South Hiking
Experience Ireland’s warm hospitality and beautiful landscapes on an epic 12-day active adventure with MT Sobek, covering 70 miles of the legendary “Wild Atlantic Way.” Explore iconic sites like the breathtaking Giant’s Causeway, Lakes of Killarney, Croagh Patrick, and the stunning Cliffs of Moher. Traverse dramatic clifftops, stroll through quaint fishing villages, and marvel at jaw-dropping views. By night, enjoy lively pubs, local cuisine, and the fascinating history and rich heritage of this small but mighty country.
Activity Level 3 / Number of Days: 12
How to hike in Ireland? –> Join the 12-day Ireland North to South Hiking Tour
Why Explore Europe with MT Sobek
MT Sobek began operating adventure trips in Europe in the early 1970s. True to our roots, we offer a range of immersive hiking and cultural experiences led by seasoned local guides that include world-famous routes like the Tour du Mont Blanc. Venture further off the beaten path in Portugal and Ireland, or explore village to village trails in England.
So what does this rich history provide for MT Sobek guests?
- Carefully designed itineraries: A balance of iconic trails and hidden gems for a deeper experience of each European destination. MT Sobek’s Europe hiking adventures immerse guests in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Italy, Croatia, France, Romania and more.
- Small group adventures: All MT Sobek trips in Europe are limited to no more than 16 guests, while some are capped at 12. Small group sizes create a more personalized and immersive experience.
- Seamless travel logistics: Permits, transportation, meals, activities and accommodations are expertly arranged so you can focus on the joy of adventure and cultural discovery.
- Comfort and immersion: Rewarding hikes paired with premier lodging and memorable meals create an enriching and relaxing experience.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable leaders share insights into local ecology, geology, wildlife, and cultural history, and ensure a commitment to safety and enjoyment throughout the journey.
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FAQs
Europe offers incredible hiking opportunities across many countries. Popular choices include Italy for the Dolomites, France for the Alps and Provence, Switzerland for mountain scenery, Ireland for coastal trails, and Slovenia for a mix of alpine landscapes and cultural experiences.
Most European hiking destinations are best visited between June and September, when trails are generally snow-free, mountain refuges are open, and weather conditions are most favorable for walking and trekking.
Walking tours usually feature easier daily distances and gentler terrain. Hiking tours often include moderate mountain trails and elevation gain, while trekking tours typically involve longer days, higher elevations, and more physically demanding routes. Check out our MT Sobek activity levels.
Essentials include broken-in hiking boots, moisture-wicking layers, rain gear, sun protection, a reusable water bottle, trekking poles if preferred, and a comfortable daypack for daily hikes.
Guided hiking and adventure tours offer several advantages, especially in mountain regions or more remote areas. Local guides offer historical insights, handle logistics, make dining recommendations, offer more authentic cultural immersion, and often include hikes that independent travelers are unlikely to ever find.
A single village can be enjoyed in one or two days, but if you would like a more complete European experience, it’s best to play on one to three weeks so you can visit many different regions and towns. Some travelers prefer to focus their visit on hiking, wine tasting, visiting local markets, touring castles, and having cultural experiences, while the villages themselves are secondary.
Yes. Many solo travelers join guided hiking trips in Europe because they offer a safe, social, and convenient way to explore iconic trails while meeting like-minded adventurers from around the world.
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