Besides its intriguing history and lively culture, Europe possesses some of the most awe-inspiring, natural beauty in the world. From epic walking trails to hidden gems on the road-less travelled, we’ve selected some of our favourite post-lockdown walking adventures for 2021.
What could be better than being in the great outdoors exploring the most scenic trails on foot, with plenty of surprises packed into each itinerary? In just a few hours you could be surrounded by the alpine backdrops of Mont Blanc, walking among the ancient hillsides of the Amalfi Coast, or discovering the delights of the Dolomites.
Colourful and dramatic, the Amalfi Coast has gained a global reputation for being one of the most picturesque parts of Italy. With pastel-hued villages clinging to nail-biting hillsides and more ancient sites than you can shake a stick at, this tour has some pretty spectacular walks up its sleeve.
The “Walk of the Gods” takes you among sleepy villages and along precipitous cliffs where views of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea unfurl before you reach the kaleidoscopic town of Positano. En route, you can tuck into traditional Italian dishes accompanied by the finest local wines. Amalfi itself is a vibrant town blending old and new, and here you can explore highlights such as the Duomo or Paper Mill Museum. And what’s an Italian holiday without a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii where you’ll uncover its 2000-year-old history.
Classic Dolomites
Breathe in the aromatic air and soak up views of the imposing limestone peaks on a walking tour of the Dolomites, which teeter on the brink of the Austrian border. You’ll walk through flower-strewn meadows and besides glacial lakes before following in the footsteps of the SS hostages from WW1. Combining the most beautiful scenery with fascinating history, this walk to Rossalmhutte is extraordinary. Throughout the tour you’ll witness incredible views of the Tre Cime, Monte Cristallo, and Monte Piana. Visiting the traditional mountain huts along the way also lets you taste local specialities and learn about the culture.
The Mont Blanc circuit is possibly the most magnificent route in the Alps, if not the world. Trekking through dramatic valleys surrounding Mont Blanc is undoubtedly a life-changing experience but it’s the diamonds in the rough that make this walking tour even more exceptional. The alpine restaurants and cafes of Chamonix are enveloped by a mountainous backdrop and let you unwind as you absorb the views whilst sampling local delicacies. With treks along L’Aiguillette des Posettes, Col du Possettes, Aiguillette des Houches, and Aiguillette du Brevent, your mind will be blown by the views across Mont Blanc summit and Chamonix Valley.
Leading you through the valleys and peaks of Spain’s breathtaking national park, walking the Picos de Europa not only presents you with panoramic views, it also introduces you to local wildlife such as wolves, bears, Golden eagles, Griffon vultures, and wild boars. As you hike between Arenas de Cabrales valley, Pandebano Col, and Pena Main, you’ll enjoy showstopping views of the Central, Eastern and Western Massifs, stopping for lunch at traditional mountain villages.
Away from the tourist trails of Greece, Evia is a secluded gem that whisks you into times gone by with its ancient mountain villages and Roman history. Looking out across the Aegean Sea, this idyllic Greek island stuns you with its raw beauty and authenticity. In between exploring coastal paths and forests, there’s the opportunity to visit the ruins of Poseidon’s temple, witness the remains of the Acropolis of Mt Kliosi, and take a walking tour of Athens. Food lovers will be in their element sampling Ouzo and Greek dishes at the traditional tavernas.
If you’d like to see more Exodus walking adventures, view our full range of Europe holidays.
