IN PARTNERSHIP WITH TD ACTIVE HOLIDAYS
There is no better way to experience a country in all its natural wonders than on an invigorating walk and Europe boasts a wide variety of incredible landscapes and diverse walking trails to suit all different skill levels …
There are so many physical and mental benefits of a walking holiday. These include reconnecting with nature and escaping from the stresses of everyday life. It can also be a fantastic social experience, especially for solo travellers, where you can meet like-minded people and feel a great sense of camaraderie. Plus, you get a fantastic feeling of accomplishment after completing a strenuous hike! If you’re looking for a healthy challenge for 2024, check out some of the best hiking destinations in Europe.
Slovenia
Still a relatively untouched destination in Europe, Slovenia has majestic landscapes of mountains, lakes, and valleys. Triglav National Park, located in the heart of the Julian Alps, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with a variety of hiking trails, including the renowned Triglavska Bistrica trail. On a Slovenia walking holiday you can experience so many beautiful natural features such as Vintgar Gorge, So a Valley Perinik Waterfall, Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, the largest lake in the country.
Tuscany
A Tuscany walking holiday offers a fantastic opportunity to explore Italy’s most iconic region. One of the top things to do is to visit the “Dying City” of Civita di Bagnoregio. This village is only accessible by a narrow pedestrian bridge; its isolation has helped preserve its medieval charm and it’s surrounded by a rugged landscape. Hike a part of the historic route of Via Francigena taken by the Archbishop of Canterbury in the 10th century on his way to Rome and explore Val d’Orcia to enjoy the views of rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval towns.
Spain
A country renowned for its fantastic weather, rich history and breathtaking landscapes, it’s no wonder why a walking holiday in Spain is popular among hiking enthusiasts. There are plenty of trails to uncover, such as the medieval routes of Taha de Pitres in the Sierra Nevada region, where you can also explore Acequias, Poqueira Valley and Lanjaron. You could also consider trekking the Camino, an iconic ancient pilgrimage trail. Whether you take the French Way or the Portuguese Camino, all routes lead to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela and each one has its own distinctive scenery including forests, rolling hills, picturesque villages, coastal paths, and even mountainous regions.
Transylvania
A walking holiday in Transylvania, a region in central Romania, promises an enchanting experience where you can explore mountains, forests, meadows, traditional villages, medieval castles, and of course learn more about the legend of Dracula. Hike across the Bucegi Mountains to encounter the mystical “Sphinx” and “Babele”, these are remarkable rock formations shaped by weather erosion and for many years inspired local folklore. Another highlight is the Transfagarasan Road, one of the most spectacular mountain roads in the world which leads into the impressive Fagaras Mountains, where you’ll find the stunning Lake Balea.
Madeira
With a mild climate all year-round and scenery consisting of mountains, rainforest, rugged coastlines, and waterfalls; this small Portuguese island is a hiker’s paradise. On a Madeira walking holiday, trek the island’s eastern most point, the Ponta de São Lourenço to see some of the finest cliff scenery, experience top levada walks like Levada do Caldeirão Verde & the Rabaçal 25 fountains, hike the Vereda do Fanal to see the Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and encounter its native flora and fauna.
Uncover more of Europe on foot with a TD active walking holiday. Led by expert guides, you’ll journey through incredible landscapes and hidden urban corners, meet like-minded travellers and challenge yourself with a rewarding holiday experience. There is a variety of walking holidays to suit all different skill levels and they offer a choice of walking routes with varying pace and distance. Plus, flights, transfers and accommodation are all included. Grab your walking boots and experience some of the most incredible scenery in the world!