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The boots are laced. The rucksack is packed. Active holidays have rocketed into popularity, and where better to cut your teeth than European hiking trails? The region has a long list of beginner-friendly walking holidays.
Balancing ambition with fitness is tricky. Squeeze enough pre-departure training in, though, and you’ll easily tackle these top walking holidays.
1. Camino Portugués (Portugal → Spain)
The biggest trend for travellers in 2025 was staying away longer – who are we to disappoint? Instead of tackling the ultra-challenging Camino de Santiago, why not attempt its quieter Portuguese twin?
The Camino Portugués is around 200km shorter and has flatter terrain. Avoid the burning quads and limit your blisters. The route is still tough, and this endurance challenge requires a dedicated pre-departure training program to avoid overuse injuries. But, honestly? The coastal villages and ocean views set it amongst the prettiest walking holidays Europe has to offer.
2. Via Algarviana, Algarve, Portugal — Gentle Inland Walking With Cultural Charm
Think of the Algarve, and orange cliffs spring to mind. That is, for those unfamiliar with Southern Portugal’s beautiful Via Algarviana.
This 300km route takes hikers from Alcoutim to Cabo de São Vicente, traversing olive groves and hopping between rural villages. The terrain is gentle, and the crowds are sparse. The Via Algarviana is nothing like the noisy cliffs of Portugal’s coastline, and has real cultural charm.
3. Catalan Coast Walking Routes, Spain — Easy Coastal Paths Combining Sea Views and Culture
There is no better place to experience a different side of Spain than Catalonia. This coastal region has its own language, distinct culture, and stunning trails – including dreamy paths like the six-hour route from Begur to Palamos.
The beauty of the Catalan coastline is that it’s easily broken into manageable day hikes. Combining those sea views and that Catalonian culture? Perfection; it’s a rewarding destination for beginners.
4. Scenic Countryside or Low-Mountain Walks — As Offered By European Walking-Holiday Specialists
Start with gentle routes, like scenic countryside or low-mountain walks. These trails are frequently offered as guided experiences – often including luggage transfers.
The trick is starting slowly. Rolling countryside is easier than steep cliffs, while lower altitudes and fewer days are easier on your body. For instance, Picos de Europa is a great trail to dip your toes into thru-hiking. Looping through dramatic alpine scenery in Northern Spain, it incorporates an adventurous overnighter in a mountain hut before returning you to civilisation the very next day.
5. Short-Break Walking Holidays — Ideal For Testing the Waters Before Committing to a Long Trek
On that note, short walking holidays are great for testing the waters. Why not start with a long weekend? The Sentiero Azzuro is a perfect example. Despite being only 13km, the undulating path links the villages of Cinque Terre, creating a culture-enthused miniature thru-hike. Alternatively, consider something like the 10km Stockholm Archipelago Trail.
Nobody wants to gear up for a three-month sabbatical of daily hiking, only to discover they despise the reality by day three. Besides, this is the perfect training opportunity. The saying is true; slow and steady really does win the race.
Europe is an accessible destination for entry-level hiking. In fact, the only question is where you’ll go first.
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