The European continent is full of scenic splendor and arguably the best network of hiking trails in the world. There is a route to suit everyone, whether you want an easier or harder trail, he writes “National Geographic”.
Here are seven trails that showcase some of the most spectacular scenery without requiring much physical effort, most of which can be completed on foot in just half a day. They’ll also introduce you to regions that could easily fill an entire vacation with hiking tours, so treat each one as a starting point.
Path of the Gods, Amalfi Coast, Italy
This six-kilometer-long path runs along the edge of the Lattari mountains between Bomerano and Nocelle, before descending for about 500 meters to Positano on the Amalfi Coast. Although it was only reopened in the late 1990s, it quickly became one of Italy’s most famous hiking trails. Packed with tourists in summer and early autumn and walked by organized groups of walkers in between, it’s absolutely worth a visit for the view from about 610 meters above sea level, straight down to the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea. Start before 9:30 a.m. on a sunny spring morning when the trail is empty.
Fagradalsfjall Volcanic System, Reykjanes, Iceland
As of 2021, Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula has entered a period of intense volcanic activity and shows no signs of slowing down. Currently, the area of the latest eruptions is off-limits and is likely to remain so for the foreseeable future. But it is usually possible to walk close to the first volcano that formed in Geldingadallir and its avalanche field, Fagradalschraun. Fortunately, it’s not a major expedition – the drive from Reykjavík takes about an hour, while the marked walk is about two kilometers along a wide and stable path. Before you go, check the latest volcano news and warnings.
Plitvice Lakes, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Their 16 turquoise lakes and the waterfalls that connect them make Plitvice seem otherworldly. Bordered with moss and grasses, they look like computer-animated scenery from a movie. No wonder the paths that connect them are so busy in the summer. Aim to visit in May to enjoy fresh spring foliage as well as cooler temperatures. Book tickets in advance for eight in the morning, when the park opens. Bring a picnic and head straight to the Veliki Prstavec waterfall so you can enjoy it before the promenades start filling up with other visitors. Several marked hiking trails will take you into the forests of the park.
Mullach Choir Mick Furcher, Wester Ross, Scotland
Dubbed the Torridon Hills, the saw-toothed and steep-sided mountains of Liathach, Bein Aige and Bein Alighin are home to hiking trails that will challenge you. However, you can feel their power and beauty without climbing them. Park the car and walk north through the deep cleft that separates Liathach from Bein Aige. Turn right where the path splits, start to climb and after about two kilometers you will find yourself on Mullah Cóir Mhic Fearcher, home to a small lake located under high cliffs.
Wereda do Areiro, Madeira, Portugal
Wereda do Areiro, almost six kilometers long, connects the two highest peaks of the island with narrow paths that will thrill you, if you are not afraid. Rarely has such an exciting mountaintop environment been made so easy to hike. The trail reopened after a wildfire forced it to close in 2024, so expect it to be especially busy this year (you also have to pay for a day permit). Check the forecast carefully for any signs of rain or strong winds. You will have to be patient, the path is narrow and most people will be walking it to and from the Pico di Areiro car park, so you may be stopped or slowed down by crowds.
Val Venegia, Trentino, Italy
Hiking the Val Venegia offers you maximum reward for minimum effort. About three kilometers of walking leads to one of the most perfect views of the Italian Dolomites. From the car park there is a gentle climb through the forest before the trees suddenly part to reveal a green valley, enclosed by the western side of the Pale di San Martino massif. Aim for a long lunch at the Malga Veneziato di Tonadico mountain restaurant at the far end of the valley. The trail extends beyond this point, to Rifugio Volpi al Mulaz at an altitude of 2,770 meters, but it is a more serious undertaking.
Royal Mail Road, Nerjofjord, Norway
You don’t have to walk eight hours and climb very high to enjoy a Norwegian fjord. Their sea-to-sky scenery is just as impressive at the water’s edge as it is from a mountaintop, as this nearly 5km trail along the east coast of the Nerjöfjord attests. It is accessed by regular electric ferries from Gudvangen or Flåm, and follows the 18th century post road connecting the hamlets of Stevie and Blakelyndi, offering views of lush meadows, pretty villages and forests along the way. Near Stevie is the thunderous Odnefossen waterfall, and overnight camping is offered in one of Stevie’s meadows if you feel up to it.
