Europe is a continent filled with magnificent landscapes, traditional towns and ancient wonders. Each of our trips provides immersive experiences and a chance to connect with nature, and exploring on foot is the best way to discover the continent’s diverse beauty. For sheer variety, our walking holidays in Europe are hard to beat. From the scenic grandeur of snow-capped mountains and soaring coastal paths overlooking the sea, to gentle meanders through ancient forests and flower-filled meadows, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Take on iconic treks, such as the Tre Cime in the Dolomites, the cols on the Tour du Mont Blanc or Italy’s Walk of the Gods. Get a taste for the rich tapestry of European history at medieval Spanish monasteries, Evia’s Roman ruins or along the famous pilgrim’s path of the Camino de Santiago.
As well as discovering the diverse scenery on walking holidays in Europe, you’ll also feast on local food and stay in carefully selected accommodation, which is often family-run and authentic to the area. Some of the best walking holidays in Europe are perfectly timed for experiencing local festivals, beautiful weather or seasonal highlights, such as the vibrant lavender fields of Provence.
Whether you prefer to explore at your own pace on one of our self-guided walking holidays; walk along trails that are off the beaten path with like-minded travellers on a group trip; trek point-to-point or stay at a central base, we look forward to welcoming you to one of our Europe walking tours.
Amalfi Coast: Located in southern Italy. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its dramatic coastline, lined with colourful towns perched on cliffs. Walking along the scenic trails, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, terraced vineyards and fragrant lemon groves. Explore the picturesque towns of Amalfi, Positano and Ravello, immersing yourself in the region’s rich history, delicious cuisine and warm hospitality. Italian Dolomites: This stunning mountain range in northeastern Italy is a paradise for hiking, with its jagged peaks, alpine meadows and shimmering lakes. The Dolomites provide a wide range of trails suitable for all levels of walkers, allowing you to trek through dramatic valleys, explore charming mountain villages and witness unparalleled views from high mountain passes. Mont Blanc Circuit: Located in the French, Italian and Swiss Alps, this iconic trail circles the tallest peak in Europe, Mont Blanc. As you traverse through alpine meadows, glacial landscapes and snow-capped peaks, you’ll experience the thrill of crossing international borders, immersing yourself in different cultures and witnessing some of the most awe-inspiring mountain scenery in the world. Tuscany: Situated in central Italy, Tuscany is famous for its rolling hills, vineyards and medieval towns. Walking through Tuscany’s idyllic countryside, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, provides a truly authentic experience. Explore the charming town of San Gimignano and the cultural city of Florence, taste world-famous Chianti wines and indulge in delicious Italian cuisine. Andalucia: This unspoilt region in southern Spain is home to diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From the famous Caminito del Rey, a thrilling walkway perched on a gorge, to the Sierra de Grazalema, a mountain range dotted with picturesque white villages, Andalucia boasts a wide range of spectacular walking trails. Discover fascinating Moorish architecture, flamenco music and hidden valleys as you explore this captivating region of Spain.
FAQs on Walking Holidays in Europe
When is the best time to go walking in Europe?
The best time for walking holidays in Europe depends on personal preferences and the region of choice. Generally, spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are often considered ideal. During these months, the weather is usually mild with comfortable temperatures for walking. Spring showcases blooming landscapes and vibrant colours, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. However, it’s important to check the specific destination as some regions may have different weather patterns. For example, in the Mediterranean, summer might be too hot for walking, while winter might bring snow to mountainous areas.
Where are the best places in Europe for walking holidays?
Europe is a walker’s paradise with its picturesque landscapes, diverse terrains and cultural experiences. In Andalucia, southern Spain, you can explore mountain ranges like Sierra de Grazalema and Sierra Nevada. The Prosecco Hills and Tuscany in Italy are home to beautiful vine-clad hills and charming towns that are best explored on foot. For a real taste of adventure, Picos de Europa in Spain beckons with its rugged beauty and magnificent valleys, while Madeira in Portugal boasts dramatic coastal cliffs and lush forests. With its many varied destinations, Europe has something to offer every type of traveller.
Do I need a guide, or can I walk independently?
Whether you choose one of our guided or self-guided walking trips depends on personal preferences and experience. Walking independently allows for greater flexibility and the freedom to explore at your own pace. However, when you embark on a guided tour, our knowledgeable guides can enhance your experience by providing valuable insights into the local culture, history and wildlife. Our expert guides also ensure safety and assist with navigation, especially in more remote or unfamiliar areas.
Is Mont Blanc difficult to climb?
Mount Blanc is an immense peak standing at 4,810 metres and is renowned for its majestic allure and challenging nature. Considered one of the most prominent peaks in the world, hikers from around the globe are drawn to conquer its summit. The ascent of Mount Blanc presents numerous obstacles that demand physical endurance and acclimatisation to high altitudes. The variable weather conditions on the mountain also add to the complexity of the climb. However, with adequate training, experience and guidance, skilled climbers can successfully summit Mount Blanc.
How should I prepare for walking in Europe?
Proper planning is essential for a successful walking trip in Europe. Firstly, choose a specific trail or route based on your preferences and fitness level. Research the terrain, weather conditions and local customs and regulations. Invest in a pair of comfortable, well-fitted hiking boots and suitable outdoor clothing to ensure maximum comfort during your walks. It is also important to pack essential items such as a map, compass, first aid kit and sufficient water and food supplies. Lastly, prepare your body by gradually increasing your endurance through regular walking and hiking activities.
What are the benefits of exploring Europe on foot?
Walking trips in Europe offer numerous benefits for travellers. Firstly, walking allows for a deeper connection with nature and the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of landscapes up close. It is also a great way to engage with local communities, as many walking routes pass through traditional villages and towns. Additionally, walking tours in Europe contribute to sustainable tourism by supporting local economies and preserving natural and cultural heritage.
Mont Blanc Camping Trek with Exodus Travels
Mont Blanc Circuit Camping Trek: a point-to-point trek to admire spectacular views of Mont Blanc
Great trip from start to finish showcasing lots of different parts of Sri Lanka. The hiking was great and really got you away from the tourist hot spots. Beautiful scenery up in the mountains and forests, tea plantations, lakes, waterfalls. It was more beautiful than I had imagined. Hotels were all of a good standard, several with pools. I would have preferred not to camp the one night but that is just me! I liked that there weren’t lots of long road journeys and the itinerary was well paced. Lots of opportunities to sample Sri Lankan food. Great wildlife and birds. We were lucky enough to spot a leopard but the safari would have been fun even if we hadn’t as there was still lots to see. Overall, a brilliant trip as you see and do so much in the 15 days.
Really enjoyed this trip. I liked the busy pace, the treks, houseboat and the homestay in particular. It was only a small group but we bonded easily over a couple of beers on the first night and that continued through the duration of the trip.
This was an excellent week of walking. The paths are steep in some places but well defined and Jose guided us with care and attention on the challenging ascents and descents of the Sierra Aitana. The walks were well-paced by Jose but the days are long so you do need to be fit. We trekked through a number of landscapes illustrating the historic and current use of the area and Jose with his local knowledge enhanced our understanding of how this area has evolved over the centuries as well as the current challenges. The views from the walks were amazing – one way you could see the coast from Alicante to Benidorm and beyond and the other the folding valleys and mountains of the interior. The skies were blue and the days sunny and warm and we experienced very little wind even on the summits. We were based at the Hostel Rincon de Pepe where we had a wonderful week being looked after by Raquel. The food was amazing and hearty (three courses plus wine). The terrace was also great place to have breakfast every morning as the sun rose out of the Med, as well as a beer or two after the walk as the sun disappeared behind the mountains.
