We absolutely love hiking and we always make a point to do at least one hike wherever we go. After years of traveling Europe, we have come up with 10 hikes that should be on your bucket list, if they aren’t already. Whether you like discovering amazing mountain views or prefer to be rewarded with a pristine beach at the end of the trail, we’ve got the hike for you.
Here are 10 hikes that should definitely be on your Europe bucket list (in no particular order).
Eibsee Loop in the Bavarian Alps
- Length: 7.2 km
- Duration: 2 hrs
- Parking: At lake entrance
- Trailhead: At parking lot
One of Germany’s most beautiful lakes, the Eibsee has become hugely popular with tourists. For that reason, we don’t recommend visiting during the high season in summer. In our opinion, late winter is a great season to visit as the crowds are small and the thawing lake reveals gorgeous colors. The hike is very easy and is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Seealpsee Loop in Switzerland
- Length: 7-8 km
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Parking: Gasthaus Alpenrose
- Trailhead: Gasthaus Alpenrose
Generally speaking, this hike is pretty easy. That being said, the lake is located high in the mountains, so expect a long climb to begin. However, the views are well worth it and there are a few opportunities to relax and enjoy some local specialties. You can even take a milk bath up there, but we’re not really sure why you would want to..
Lünersee in Austria
- Length: 6.5 km
- Duration: 2 hrs
- Parking: At the lift
- Trailhead: At the top of the lift
The Lünersee is a gorgeous mountain lake that is only accessible by a very steep climb or a lift at the bottom of the mountain. While the height and steepness of the lift was intimidating for Denise, the views at the top were well worth it. Another great aspect of this easy loop trail is the small cabin half-way around the lake that sells drinks and snacks. Of course, there is also a restaurant at the upper lift station as well.
Cala Goloritze in Sardinia
- Length: 7-8 km round trip
- Duration: 1.5-2 hrs
- Parking: Su Porteddu restaurant
- Trailhead: At parking lot
This hike is underestimated by too many travelers and what we mean by that is, you definitely need to bring proper hiking attire; at the very least, hiking shoes or boots that can handle loose rocks of all sizes and stability. Walking down to this beach is an adventure in itself, providing excellent views and wildlife encounters. The reward is a pristine beach with crystal clear waters. Bring plenty of water, stay hydrated and don’t forget you have to climb back up the mountain.
If you are looking for more activities in Sardinia, then check out our blog post on the best beaches and more in Sardinia.
Cefalú Castle in Sicily
- Length: 4 km
- Duration: 1-2 hrs
- Parking: Cefalú Train station
- Trailhead: Al Chiasco La Rocca
You’ll need good hiking shoes for this one, as the trail is steep and slippery. This hike takes you through fortress ruins and up to a castle on top of the mountain. The views are fantastic and rewarding. If you’re visiting, we recommend going early in the morning, as heat and steep climbs are not a great combination. We visited in February and found the temperature very pleasant.
Kirnitzsch Gorge in Germany
- Length: 9 km
- Duration: 3 hrs
- Parking: Buchenparkhalle
- Trailhead: Buchenparkhalle
The highlight of this moderately difficult hike is the opportunity to take a peaceful boat ride through the beautiful Kirnitzsch gorge. The hike itself takes you down into the gorge and along the river, which serves as the border between Germany and the Czech republic. Enchanting forests and intriguing rock formations await you.
This hike is included in our premium Germany travel maps.
Calanques in France
- Length: 4-14 km
- Duration: 2-5 hrs
- Parking: Parking Calanque Port-Miou Cassis
- Trailhead: At parking lot
There are a number of routes you can take to explore Calanques national park in France, so we’ll leave that part up to you. No matter which route you take, there are plenty of opportunities to hop in the water or just enjoy the fascinating rock formations and natural bays. This area is quite popular with tourists, so you may want to visit in the off-season. We visited in late October–it was still quite warm and the parking lot was almost full. Remember, these are still hikes and proper attire is a must to stay safe. Flip-Flops are not recommended when hiking up, down and along cliffs.
Ghost Forest in Germany
- Length: 4-5.5 km
- Duration: 1-2 hrs
- Parking: Ostseebad Nienhagen
- Trailhead: Ostseebad Nienhagen
Definitely one of the most unique landscapes we have ever encountered in Germany, the Ghost Forest boasts gorgeous sea views from this unique forest! With the right conditions, the sun illuminates the water, giving it a beautiful turquoise hue. We were fortunate enough to witness this ourselves on a sunny June day.
This hike is included in our premium Germany travel maps.
Müllerthal in Luxembourg
- Length: 4-15 km
- Duration: 1-5 hrs
- Parking: Camping Martbusch
- Trailhead: Camping Martbusch
This hiking area offers multiple route options, so you can explore the stunning rock formations in your own way. Parking is free and the trails are well maintained. While there are many stairs in some sections, conditions are generally stable and easy to handle with standard outdoor shoes. We loved exploring the chasms, but weren’t brave enough to take the ladders through the dark “Robber’s Cave”. Are you brave enough? Let us know in the comments!
Despite being in Luxembourg, this hike is also included in our premium Germany travel maps.
Hintersteiner See in Austria
- Length: 9 km
- Duration: 3 hrs
- Parking: Seestüberl restaurant in Scheffau
- Trailhead: Seestüberl restaurant in Scheffau
One of our favorite travel memories comes from hiking this trail. While it is a difficult uphill climb through the thick forest, we were rewarded not only with fantastic panoramic views, but also with some local traditions. Possibly the world’s smallest brewery is located at the top of the mountain, which was a treat in itself. But we also witnessed an annual ceremony of escorting dairy cows with elaborate headdresses down from their summer grazing pastures. Afterwards, we met the locals who serenaded us with an accordion and traditional folk songs. The warmth and sense of community was a pleasure to be a part of.
Do you already have a favorite hike in Europe? Let us know in the comments!
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About the Authors
Ryne and Denise Cook: We’ve lived in Europe for many years (Denise her whole life) and always make a point to take some hikes while traveling the continent.
