New to hiking holidays? These beginner-friendly hiking trips in Europe are the perfect way to explore stunning landscapes at your own pace – no experience needed.
If you’ve ever scrolled through breathtaking photos of hiking adventures and thought, “I’d love to do that – but I wouldn’t know where to start,” you’re in the right place.
At Trailmates Adventures, we specialise in beginner-friendly hiking trips designed for everyday walkers – not elite mountaineers. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with a friend, our guided trips combine natural beauty, cultural discovery, and relaxed walking routes, all carefully curated to ensure you feel confident and supported every step of the way.
Here are five of our most popular beginner-friendly hiking holidays across Europe – all small-group, fully guided, and full of wow moments.
Perfect for: First-time hikers, lovers of alpine lakes, and those looking for variety in scenery
Slovenia is a dream destination for beginner hikers. With its fairytale lakes, lush forests, and dramatic peaks, it offers some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe – and it’s incredibly accessible, even for those with no hiking experience.
Our Lake Bled & Triglav tour takes you through gentle trails in and around Triglav National Park, with time to enjoy iconic sights like Lake Bohinj and Vintgar Gorge. Distances are manageable, elevation is moderate, and there’s always time to pause for photos or a local pastry.
This trip is a fantastic introduction to hiking in the Alps without needing technical skills or strenuous climbs.
View our Slovenia trip here.
Perfect for: Mild adventurers, ocean lovers, and first-time trekkers
Often called the “island of eternal spring,” Madeira is a paradise for hikers who want impressive views without extreme difficulty. Our Madeira trip explores volcanic cliffs, lush valleys, and terraced hillsides – all on well-maintained trails suitable for beginners.
Walks follow historic levadas (irrigation paths) and coastal viewpoints, with plenty of time to take in the landscape, snap photos, and soak up the Atlantic breeze. Add a warm climate and relaxed local charm, and you’ve got the perfect entry-level hiking holiday.
Perfect for: Scenic walkers, train travellers, and lovers of clean air
Switzerland’s reputation for natural beauty is well-earned, but not every mountain holiday requires peak fitness. Our Swiss Alps hiking tour is crafted to be beginner-friendly, using cable cars and trains to access breathtaking trails without steep ascents.
You’ll enjoy panoramic paths around alpine lakes, through wildflower meadows, and past postcard-perfect villages – all at a gentle pace with expert guidance. It’s hiking made easy, with high-altitude views and low-stress logistics.
Perfect for: Curious explorers, hidden-gem seekers, and relaxed nature lovers
Montenegro is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets – and a fantastic option for a beginner-friendly hiking trip. This guided tour leads you through Durmitor and Biogradska Gora National Parks, where trails wind through pine forests, glacial lakes, and panoramic ridgelines.
Despite the dramatic scenery, the walking is approachable and varied, with short distances and plenty of rest time. It’s a great choice for hikers who want somewhere unique, uncrowded, and culturally rich – without the pressure of intense trekking.
Perfect for: Lovers of mountain views, good food, and peaceful alpine walks
While the Dolomites are famous for their jagged peaks, they also offer plenty of easy-to-moderate trails that are perfect for newcomers. Our Dolomites tour is built around these gentler routes, combining soft alpine paths with dramatic scenery, hearty local cuisine, and cosy mountain stays.
You’ll walk through flower-filled meadows, past limestone cliffs, and enjoy some of the best views in Europe – all without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. It’s a breathtaking but beginner-welcoming escape into nature.
Every Trailmates trip is thoughtfully designed to make hiking holidays feel achievable, inclusive, and enjoyable for all.
– Guided hikes at a comfortable group pace
– Pre-planned itineraries with rest, scenery, and culture in balance
– Supportive guides who know the terrain and help you feel confident
– Small group sizes to ensure a friendly and relaxed atmosphere
– Accommodation and transport included, so you can simply show up and enjoy
If you’ve been searching for the best beginner-friendly hiking trips in Europe, these five destinations are a perfect place to begin. Each one offers stunning trails, a relaxed pace, and the kind of group camaraderie that makes the journey as rewarding as the views.
Browse all upcoming trips here, or get in touch – we’ll help match you to your ideal first hiking holiday.
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