A walking holiday is one of the most rewarding ways to discover a new destination. And, in Europe particularly, the sheer number of beautiful places and vibrant cultures makes it an even more incredible experience. So, here are some examples of popular walking holidays around Europe’s diverse landscapes!
Stunning coastlines and sea views
Europe is home to some of the most picturesque coastlines, excellent for those who love to stay close to the sea. Portugal, for one, is a prime example, with more than 1100 miles of coastline along the Atlantic Sea. The country’s most popular walking holiday routes include the Fishermen’s Trail (part of the Rota Vicentina) as well as the Camino Portugues Coastal Route. Beyond the white cliffs and sandy coves, these trails include visits to traditional fishing villages.
Elsewhere, Spain’s Camino del Norte, one of the infamous Camino de Santiago routes, attracts thousands of pilgrims each year, known for its extraordinary coastal scenery. Croatia, on the other hand, is known as the gem of the Mediterranean, offering historic walks along its Dalmatian Coast and islands. In Ireland, the Dingle Ways and the Kerry Way take you through emerald green landscapes and dramatic coves.
Mountains and untouched nature
In addition to its coastlines, Europe also has some of the most impressive mountain ranges in the world. The iconic Alps is not one to skip for hiking enthusiasts, with a variety of routes available from Switzerland, Italy and France. While these trails are certainly more challenging, the jaw-dropping views are well-worth the effort.
Moreover, Romania is another popular destination for mountainous walking holidays. Its Transylvania region with views of the Carpathian Mountains stand out for their amazing biodiversity, ranging from lush forest paths to alpine meadows, far away from modern life. Similarly, the Scottish Highlands offer a vast wilderness, surrounded by majestic mountain peaks, lochs, glens and forests.
Rolling countryside and villages
For walkers who prefer gentler landscapes and the European countryside, there are plenty of options too. England, for instance, is renowned for its rural paths, where walking holiday routes such as Hadrian’s Wall Path or the Cotswolds Way are filled with rolling hills and stone-built villages. Nearby, France’s Dordogne region combines natural beauty with delicious food and wine, while Italy’s Tuscany walks will take your breath away with their charming medieval towns.
Walking holidays with Orbis Ways
Planning a walking holiday requires a lot of careful consideration – not only do you have to create a realistic itinerary, but also book accommodation for each night. Orbis Ways specialises in walking holidays all across Europe, including all of the destinations mentioned and more. Boasting 4.7 / 5-star reviews on Trustpilot, the agency is known for its professional and personalised service, from route recommendations to 24/7 emergency support throughout your journey.
Europe step-by-step
Whether you are looking to explore the quiet countryside of England, the wild mountains of Romania or the sandy shores of Portugal, Europe has all bases covered. A walking holiday is the perfect way to do it, turning any holiday into a memorable, enriching adventure!
