Incredible panoramas, wildflower meadows and the odd wild horse: readers’ favourite walks in Europe

The Sentiero degli Dei is not merely a path; it is a portal to a bygone era, tracing routes once used by shepherds and local villagers to connect the isolated hamlets dotting the rugged terrain. The name itself, "Path of the Gods," is steeped in local folklore, often attributed to the mythical figures said to have traversed these heights. Geologically, the Amalfi Coast is a marvel, a UNESCO World Heritage site where limestone cliffs plunge dramatically into the sea, creating a unique microclimate that fosters a rich array of Mediterranean flora. The trail, approximately ten breathtaking kilometers in length, demands a reasonable head for heights but rewards adventurers with an almost spiritual sense of detachment from the bustling world below.

Starting typically from the serene hamlet of Bomerano, nestled in the municipality of Agerola, the path meanders through fragrant macchia scrub, past ancient grottoes, and along narrow ledges. The terrain, while generally well-maintained, features rocky sections and occasional steep descents, qualifying it as a moderate to challenging hike suitable for those with a good level of fitness. The panoramic views are relentless, each turn revealing a more spectacular tableau of pastel-hued villages clinging precariously to the cliffs, terraced lemon groves, and the boundless expanse of the sea. Hikers can spot historical landmarks and watch traditional fishing boats far below, creating a vivid tapestry of Italian life.

As the journey nears its end, the path descends towards the undeniably beautiful but often crowded town of Positano. Brian, who shared this tip, perfectly captures the transition from "heavenly views" to the "earthly hordes of Instagrammers." Positano, with its cascade of colourful houses tumbling down to the sea, is a global magnet for tourists, its charm undeniable even amidst the crowds. To simplify logistics, a super-convenient combined bus and ferry ticket from Travelmar allows hikers to easily reach the start of the walk from any of the coastal towns and then return to their base from Positano, transforming a challenging hike into a seamless day trip. Experts often recommend hiking the Sentiero degli Dei in the spring or autumn to avoid the intense summer heat and largest crowds, allowing for a more serene experience of this divine pathway.

Beyond Italy, another stunning hike awaits in the heart of Poland, leading to the fabled Morskie Oko, the "Eye of the Sea." Nestled within the dramatic Tatra Mountains, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this region offers an alpine experience unique in Central Europe. Ryan describes the "Five Lakes hike" as Poland’s most beautiful, a journey that begins at the Palenica Białczańska parking lot and gradually gains elevation alongside a tumbling stream. After two hours of ascent, hikers are greeted by the first of five glittering glacial lakes, cradled within a magnificent amphitheatre that delineates the border with Slovakia.

The Tatra Mountains are a testament to glacial sculpting, with the lakes – known collectively as Dolina Pięciu Stawów Polskich (Valley of Five Polish Lakes) – occupying deep cirques carved by ancient ice. The crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding jagged peaks, creating a breathtaking tableau. A stop at the Dolinie Pięciu Stawów hut provides not just respite but a taste of authentic Polish mountain culture. Here, hikers can enjoy a hearty żurek, a traditional sour rye soup, a warming and fortifying dish that is a staple of Polish cuisine. From this vantage point, the "lake-pocked landscape" unfolds, inviting contemplation.

The journey continues southeast, cresting a ridge to reveal the pièce de résistance: Morskie Oko. This, the "most storied lake in Poland," lies far below, a vast, shimmering expanse "engulfed by sheer mountain walls," including Poland’s highest peak, Rysy (2,503m). The name "Eye of the Sea" comes from an old legend suggesting the lake was connected to the Baltic Sea by an underground passage, reflecting the profound mystery and awe it inspired in generations past. At the lakeside hut, a well-deserved Żywiec lager offers a refreshing reward, a popular Polish beer that perfectly caps a strenuous day. Ryan’s account leaves hikers with a tantalizing choice: a gentle trail back to the car park or the arduous, yet immensely rewarding, climb to Rysy, an additional 1,100 meters of elevation that transforms a hike into a serious mountaineering endeavour, offering views that truly touch the sky. The Tatras are also rich in biodiversity, home to endemic species like the Tatra chamois and marmot, underscoring the importance of responsible hiking to preserve this fragile ecosystem.

In the remote Svaneti region of Georgia, a hiker’s dream unfolds along a segment of the Transcaucasian Trail, as described by Aoife. The route from Ushguli to Mestia plunges trekkers into "some of the most dramatic and beautiful mountain landscapes" imaginable. Svaneti, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its distinctive medieval defensive stone towers, known as koshki, which punctuate the skyline of ancient villages like Ushguli, one of the highest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe. These towers, built for protection against invaders and blood feuds, stand as stoic guardians of a rich, unbroken cultural heritage.

The Transcaucasian Trail itself is an ambitious project aiming to create a world-class trekking route across the Caucasus Mountains, promoting sustainable tourism and connecting remote communities. In Svaneti, the trail delivers an immersive experience: "glacial pools perfect for a cold dip" offer invigorating refreshment, while "meadows thick with wildflowers and butterflies" paint vibrant natural tapestries. The occasional sighting of "wild horses" adds to the sense of untamed wilderness, making the landscape feel "like a film set." The hospitality of Svaneti’s communities is legendary; visitors are welcomed into guesthouses where "hearty food," such as Kubdari (meat-filled bread) and Sulguni cheese, fuels weary hikers. The region’s biodiversity, with its unique flora and fauna, is remarkable, stopping Aoife "in her tracks." The sheer scale and untouched beauty of Svaneti are difficult to capture, as she notes, "No photograph comes close to capturing it." This trek offers not just physical challenge but a profound cultural immersion into a land where ancient traditions thrive amidst breathtaking alpine scenery, urging anyone who hasn’t considered Georgia for hiking to "move it to the top of your list immediately."

Moving north to the Arctic Circle, Paul recounts a "magical experience" hiking a section of the Kungsleden Trail from Abisko to Nikkaluokta in Swedish Lapland. This seven-day adventure, surprisingly, "suited a group of four teenagers and two adults," a testament to the trail’s adaptable nature. The Kungsleden, or "King’s Trail," is Sweden’s most famous long-distance hiking route, stretching over 400 kilometers through some of Europe’s last great wilderness areas. Paul’s group tackled a portion of its northern section, known for its vast, open landscapes and the ethereal glow of the midnight sun during summer months – a phenomenon beautifully captured in the accompanying image.

The absence of internet connectivity, initially a concern with teenagers, proved to be a "bonus not a bug," fostering genuine connection and appreciation for the surroundings. The "walking was testing enough to be a challenge," striking a perfect balance between exertion and leisure, leaving ample time for "card games and enjoying the saunas along the way." The Swedish Tourist Association (STF) huts, strategically placed along the trail, are a hallmark of the Kungsleden experience. These well-maintained, often rustic, accommodations offer shelter, basic supplies, and communal spaces, allowing hikers to keep their "packs to be kept light" by not needing to carry extensive camping gear. A particular highlight for Paul’s family was the spotting of reindeer on the final day, a common and cherished encounter in Sami ancestral lands, adding to the sense of stepping into a truly wild and unique environment. The Kungsleden offers a profound digital detox and a deep immersion into the serene beauty of the sub-Arctic wilderness, emphasizing the importance of leaving no trace to preserve its pristine condition.

Austria’s Wildschönau valley, a quintessential Tyrolean alpine paradise, provided Barbara’s family with "amazing hiking options accessible for the whole family." This picturesque valley, with its rolling green hills and dramatic peaks, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Barbara highlights their daily treks of "between 10 and 15 miles," a substantial distance made enjoyable by the valley’s inherent beauty. The "meadows of wildflowers were breathtaking," a riot of colour and life that characterizes the alpine spring and summer.

The Wildschönau valley’s thoughtful infrastructure, including cable cars in Niederau and Auffach, makes higher-altitude routes accessible, offering "360-degree panoramas with a little less effort." This blend of strenuous hiking and convenient access ensures that diverse groups, including families with varying fitness levels, can enjoy the stunning scenery. Barbara praised the "incredible" signposting of routes, ensuring easy navigation, and the "free buses" that facilitated seamless travel throughout the area. This efficient public transport system, often part of regional guest cards like the Konus card mentioned for the Black Forest, enhances the visitor experience and promotes sustainable exploration. The climb to the top of Joelspitze emerged as a particular highlight, rewarded by sightings of beautiful gentian flowers, a prized alpine species. The day culminated in a well-earned "apple strudel," a classic Austrian pastry that perfectly complements the mountain hut (Alm/Hütte) experience, offering a sweet conclusion to a day of vigorous activity amidst the stunning Austrian Alps.

In northern Spain, Joe and his daughter embarked on "the most incredible hike" they had ever undertaken: the Ruta del Cares in the Picos de Europa National Park. This magnificent park, characterized by its dramatic limestone karsts, deep gorges, and lush green valleys, is one of Spain’s most spectacular natural treasures. The Ruta del Cares, often dubbed the "Divine Gorge," is a testament to human engineering and nature’s raw power.

The hike begins with a "steeply uphill" ascent from Poncebos, leading into the heart of the canyon. Joe describes passing "abandoned shacks" that hint at the trail’s fascinating history. Originally carved into the sheer rock face in the early 20th century to provide a maintenance path for a hydroelectric power plant, it allowed workers to patrol the canal that supplied water to the Camarmeña power station. This industrial origin gives the path its unique character, including "a series of tunnels" blasted through the rock. Despite the vertiginous drops, Joe, a "vertigo sufferer," found the "track is always just wide enough," often protected by sturdy railings, making it surprisingly accessible for many. The canyon dramatically narrows, creating a profound sense of immersion within the towering rock walls. The path eventually leads to the "idyllic hamlet, Caín," a remote village that feels suspended in time, where hikers can "dip their feet" in waterfalls and "grab a drink and snacks" before beginning the return journey. The Ruta del Cares is a truly epic walk, offering unparalleled views of one of Spain’s most untamed landscapes, a blend of awe-inspiring nature and a remarkable human story.

Germany’s Black Forest offers a blend of dense woodlands and charming towns, and George’s tip highlights a delightful seven-mile hike from Kniebis to Baiersbronn. The journey begins with a bus ride from Freudenstadt to Kniebis, immersing hikers into the heart of this mythical forest region. The Black Forest, or Schwarzwald, is famous for its dark, conifer-clad hills, traditional cuckoo clocks, and delicious Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest cake). This hike connects the serene, higher-altitude forests of Kniebis with the culinary hub of Baiersbronn.

The trail winds through lush forest paths, offering a chance to experience the German concept of Waldbaden, or forest bathing, a practice of mindfully immersing oneself in the forest atmosphere. Along the way, hikers encounter the "stunning Ellbachseeblick viewpoint," a modern wooden platform that cantilevers over the valley, providing panoramic vistas of the Ellbachsee (lake) nestled below, surrounded by dense woodland. Further on, the "Sankenbach waterfall" cascades dramatically, offering a refreshing natural spectacle. The descent into Baiersbronn, a town renowned for its Michelin-starred restaurants and culinary excellence, serves as a fitting conclusion. After the hike, the option to "enjoy an outdoor swim at Baiersbronn’s lido" or "relax with a meal in town" provides perfect rejuvenation. The convenience is further enhanced by the Konus card, a regional guest card provided by participating Black Forest accommodations, which includes "public transport… if staying in Freudenstadt (or other participating Black Forest locations)," making this a highly accessible and environmentally friendly hiking option.

Switzerland, a country synonymous with alpine grandeur, offers "family-friendly highs" on the Männlichen Panoramaweg, as discovered by Frances and her family. The journey begins with a scenic cable car ascent up Männlichen, a mountain offering breathtaking views of the Jungfrau region, one of Switzerland’s most iconic alpine destinations. This region is home to the mighty Eiger, Jungfrau, and Mönch peaks, forming a dramatic backdrop to the emerald valleys.

The Panoramaweg, a relatively gentle three-mile walk from Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg, is "manageable for little legs," making it ideal for families. Despite Frances’s observation that it is "Wild and unspoiled it is not," its appeal lies in its accessibility and the sheer spectacle of the "glorious views of the Eiger and the Bernese Oberland." Switzerland excels at integrating high-alpine experiences with family-friendly amenities. A highlight for Frances’s children was the "incredible alpine playground" at Männlichen, featuring giant cows and other themed attractions, and the "trail of marble runs" encountered during a stop in Wengen on the way up. These creative additions transform a mountain hike into an interactive adventure for younger trekkers, ensuring engagement and wonder. At Kleine Scheidegg, families can easily take a train down, completing a loop that perfectly balances stunning natural beauty with accessible, entertaining activities, showcasing Switzerland’s mastery of mountain tourism for all ages.

Along Portugal’s sun-drenched Algarve coast, Steven found his "most memorable European hike" on the coastal path from Ponta da Piedade to Praia da Luz. While the Algarve is famous for its crowded beaches, this seven-mile trail offers a more intimate and spectacular encounter with the region’s natural beauty. The path "threads between honey-coloured cliffs," sculpted by centuries of Atlantic waves into dramatic sea stacks, grottoes, and hidden coves that are characteristic of the western Algarve’s unique limestone geology.

Steven’s tip to "start at sunrise and pack a lightweight breakfast" is invaluable. The early morning light bathes the cliffs in a golden glow, the temperature is "perfect for walking," and critically, "you’ll often have long stretches of path entirely to yourself." This serene start allows for a deep appreciation of the rugged coastline, dotted with "wildflowers" that add splashes of colour to the arid landscape. The constant presence of "Atlantic views almost every step of the way" provides a sense of boundless freedom. The unforgettable moment came when they "stopped on a clifftop ledge to watch dolphins offshore," a simple yet profound encounter with marine wildlife that elevated the entire experience. Common dolphin species, alongside various seabirds, are frequently sighted in these waters. This hike offers a refreshing alternative to the typical Algarve holiday, inviting exploration of hidden gems and a deeper connection with the region’s stunning natural heritage.

Finally, the winning tip comes from Bev, who highlights the "stunning 6-mile walk along the Ponale Path" at the top of Italy’s Lake Garda. Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy, is famed for its dramatic northern end where the Alps meet the Mediterranean, creating a microclimate that supports both olive groves and alpine flora. The Ponale Path, stretching from Riva del Garda to the serene Ledro Valley, is a true engineering marvel.

Originally built as a strategic road in the mid-19th century, connecting Riva with the Ledro Valley, it was meticulously carved into the sheer cliff face, making it one of the most daring road construction projects of its time. Now, expertly converted into a pedestrian and cycling path, it takes hikers "through old tunnels carved into the rock," offering a fascinating glimpse into its past. The trail treats visitors to "the most spectacular views of the lake below," with the crystalline waters of Lake Garda shimmering against a backdrop of towering mountains. Along the route, hikers encounter "lush green fields, picturesque little farmhouses nestled among vineyards" – evidence of the region’s rich agricultural traditions, particularly olive oil and wine production. A "cascading waterfall" adds to the natural beauty. The culmination of the walk is often a stop at the "Bar sul Ponale," where hikers can enjoy "a refreshing pint and lasagne in the sunny beer garden" – a perfect reward for the effort, blending local hospitality with satisfying Italian fare. The Ponale Path offers a unique combination of historical intrigue, breathtaking scenery, and accessible adventure, making it a well-deserved winning tip for an unforgettable European hike.

These reader tips collectively paint a vibrant picture of Europe’s diverse hiking landscape, from the sun-drenched Italian coast to the wild Swedish Arctic, the ancient mountains of Georgia to the charming valleys of Austria. Each journey offers not just physical challenge but cultural immersion, natural beauty, and unforgettable moments, proving that Europe truly is a continent waiting to be explored one step at a time.