From sun-drenched coastal paths to dramatic alpine peaks, these are the best hiking holiday destinations in Europe – all beginner-friendly and fully guided.
Europe is home to some of the most diverse and awe-inspiring hiking landscapes in the world. At Trailmates Adventures, we believe the best way to experience them is on foot – in small groups, with local guides, and without the stress of planning every detail yourself.
Here are 8 of our favourite hiking holiday destinations in Europe – each one handpicked for its natural beauty, cultural richness, and suitability for everyday walkers.
A fairytale destination where emerald lakes meet alpine peaks. Our Lake Bled & Triglav tour is perfect for those new to hiking holidays, offering a gentle introduction to the Slovenian Alps.
You’ll explore Vintgar Gorge, walk forested trails near Lake Bohinj, and visit local villages surrounded by dramatic mountain backdrops. With moderate distances and a relaxed pace, it’s a fantastic first step into hiking in the Alps.
This Atlantic island is a hiking haven, with lush forests, volcanic ridges, and ancient irrigation channels called levadas. Our Madeira adventure includes a carefully curated mix of coastal paths and highland trails, all beginner-friendly but rich in scenery.
Expect dramatic viewpoints, mild weather year-round, and trails that wind through banana plantations, cloud forests, and cliff-top lookouts. It’s ideal for walkers seeking a balance of nature, culture, and comfort.
Few places match the visual drama of Italy’s Dolomites. But don’t let the jagged mountains intimidate you – our Dolomites hiking trip focuses on gentle, accessible routes with big scenic rewards.
You’ll stay in mountain villages, hike beneath towering limestone spires, and enjoy peaceful paths through flower-filled valleys. The perfect choice for those who want a classic alpine experience at a comfortable pace.
Southern Spain’s Sierra de Grazalema offers warm sunshine, Moorish towns, and scenic walking routes through rolling hills and quiet forests. Our Andalucía tour connects a series of “pueblos blancos” – traditional whitewashed villages nestled in the hills.
Walk at a relaxed pace, enjoy authentic local cuisine, and soak up Spain’s rich history and culture. It’s a perfect blend of hiking and heritage, ideal for first-timers and returning travellers alike.
Albania is one of Europe’s last great hiking frontiers – a place where ancient paths, untouched mountains, and coastal panoramas come together in perfect harmony. Our Albania hiking tour is designed to introduce you to the country’s incredible variety of landscapes, from the Albanian Riviera to quiet hillside villages and forested ridgelines overlooking the Ionian Sea.
You’ll explore handpicked trails that are scenic yet manageable, with daily routes that balance walking and discovery. Think olive groves, panoramic viewpoints, fresh local food, and the chance to experience genuine Albanian hospitality in small family-run guesthouses.
This is an ideal destination for walkers looking to explore somewhere authentic and uncrowded. With a mix of coastal beauty, rural simplicity, and warm Balkan culture, Albania offers a unique hiking experience that still feels like a true hidden gem.
Georgia offers one of the most spectacular and underrated hiking experiences in Europe – with soaring peaks, ancient monasteries, and a warm, welcoming culture. Our Georgia tour explores the dramatic landscapes of the Caucasus, with routes that pass through flower-filled valleys, remote mountain hamlets, and alpine meadows beneath snow-dusted summits.
Despite the wild setting, the trails are carefully chosen to be suitable for beginners and intermediate walkers, and the hospitality is second to none – think home-cooked meals, local wine, and traditional guesthouses. If you’re after something truly unique, Georgia delivers scenery and soul in equal measure.
Few places on earth feel as raw and awe-inspiring as Iceland. From black sand beaches and lava fields to glacier-fed waterfalls and moss-covered volcanoes, every trail offers something surreal. Our Iceland hiking tour takes you through some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes – all carefully selected to be accessible for everyday walkers.
Expect steaming geothermal valleys, quiet coastal paths, and panoramic ridge hikes that reveal Iceland’s wild beauty without requiring technical skills or extreme fitness. You’ll stay in handpicked rural guesthouses and enjoy a slower pace that lets you truly take it all in. For those seeking an unforgettable hiking adventure off the typical tourist track, Iceland is in a league of its own.
You’ll hike through native woodlands, along river valleys, and up panoramic ridgelines with views that stretch for miles – all chosen to be accessible for beginner and intermediate walkers. With time to explore charming local towns, visit castles, and enjoy hearty Scottish hospitality, this trip is about more than just the trails. It’s an immersion into one of the UK’s most beautiful and culturally rich corners – without the crowds or clichés.
Stay tuned for details – this will be a must-do for anyone who loves remote beauty and rich cultural history.
✅ Expert local guides
✅ Comfortable, characterful accommodation
✅ All transfers between hiking locations
✅ Small group sizes for a more personal experience
✅ Itineraries designed for everyday walkers – no mountaineering required
Ready to Book Your European Hiking Adventure?
Whether you’re drawn to alpine lakes, coastal cliffs, or rolling vineyards, these incredible hiking holiday destinations in Europe offer something special for every kind of traveller.
Explore all Trailmates trips or get in touch to find the perfect match for your style and pace.
