Hiking in Europe offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, from towering peaks and vast glaciers to serene lakes and lush valleys. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone looking to explore Europe’s natural beauty, the continent boasts some of the best national parks for trekking. With a range of terrain, from rugged mountain trails to peaceful forest paths, Europe’s national parks provide a perfect blend of adventure and tranquillity.
In this blog, we’ll explore the best national parks in Europe for hiking, covering key trails, points of interest, and practical hiking information to help you plan your next adventure. Plus, we’ll touch on the importance of hiking insurance to keep you safe as you embark on your journey.
The Dolomites, Italy
Area: 140,000 hectares
Highest Peak: Marmolada (3,343 meters)
Famous Trails: Alta Via 1, Sentiero degli Alpini
Points of Interest: Glaciers, alpine lakes, mountain refuges
The Dolomites, located in northeastern Italy, are one of Europe’s most stunning mountain ranges. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Dolomites offer a network of trails that vary in difficulty, from leisurely walks to demanding high-altitude hikes.
The Alta Via 1 is one of the most famous long-distance hikes in the Dolomites, stretching for 120 kilometres and taking hikers through rocky cliffs, alpine meadows, and dramatic mountain passes. With over 9,000 meters of elevation gain, this trek is a challenge, but it rewards hikers with some of the most spectacular views in Europe.
Another popular route is the Sentiero degli Alpini, a high-altitude path that offers panoramic views and leads past mountain huts offering a taste of local Italian cuisine.
For those with an adventurous spirit, Marmolada, the highest peak in the Dolomites, provides a chance to hike in the shadow of glaciers.
To find out more about hiking in the Dolomites, check out our previous blog.
The Swiss National Park, Switzerland
Area: 68,000 hectares
Highest Peak: Piz Bernina (4,049 meters)
Famous Trails: Val Trupchun, Sentiero Panorama
Points of Interest: Glaciers, wildlife, alpine meadows
Switzerland is renowned for its stunning alpine scenery, and the Swiss National Park is a prime example of the country’s natural beauty. Established in 1914, this is Switzerland’s oldest national park and boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including marmots, red deer, ibex, and golden eagles.
The Val Trupchun trail is one of the park’s most popular routes, leading hikers through lush valleys, along rivers, and past rocky cliffs. For those interested in a panoramic view, the Sentiero Panorama trail offers a 360-degree perspective of the Alps and passes through peaceful alpine meadows.
One of the highlights of this national park is the opportunity to hike alongside glaciers, adding an element of awe and wonder to any hiking adventure.
Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
Area: 242,242 hectares
Highest Peak: Cerro Paine Grande (3,050 meters)
Famous Trails: W Trek, O Circuit
Points of Interest: Glaciers, towering granite peaks, turquoise lakes
While not located in Europe, the Torres del Paine National Park is often included in international hiking lists due to its extraordinary beauty and prominence in the global trekking community. The park is renowned for its iconic Torres del Paine, towering granite spires that rise sharply against the sky.
The W Trek is a famous trail that takes hikers past glaciers, rivers, and turquoise lakes, with awe-inspiring views of the surrounding peaks. For a more extensive challenge, the O Circuit circles the entire park and offers a more remote experience with fewer crowds.
Though far from the European continent, Torres del Paine stands as one of the world’s best hiking destinations and is well worth considering for your hiking bucket list.
Cinque Terre National Park, Italy
Area: 4,300 hectares
Highest Peak: Monte Capri (420 meters)
Famous Trails: Sentiero Azzurro, Monterosso to Vernazza
Points of Interest: Coastal views, colourful villages, olive groves
While the Cinque Terre National Park in Italy may not offer towering peaks or glaciers, its hiking trails provide some of the most beautiful coastal views in Europe. The park consists of five villages perched on cliffs along the Ligurian Sea, and the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) connects them.
The hike from Monterosso to Vernazza is particularly popular, offering stunning views of the sea and vineyards, olive groves, and terraced hillsides. The trail is relatively moderate but offers plenty of opportunities for picturesque stops and scenic views of the Mediterranean coastline.
Cinque Terre National Park is perfect for those looking for a coastal hike with a combination of nature, culture, and history.
Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy
Area: 70,000 hectares
Highest Peak: Gran Paradiso (4,061 meters)
Famous Trails: Chivasso to Cogne, Rifugio Vittorio Sella
Points of Interest: Glaciers, alpine wildlife, waterfalls
Located in the Graian Alps in northern Italy, Gran Paradiso National Park is known for its pristine alpine environment. As Italy’s first national park, established in 1922, it’s an ideal destination for both beginner and experienced hikers.
One of the best hikes in the park is the Chivasso to Cogne trail, which takes hikers through ancient forests, past cascading waterfalls, and along alpine meadows. For those seeking higher altitudes, the Rifugio Vittorio Sella offers a high-altitude base from which you can explore the surrounding peaks and glaciers.
The park is also a sanctuary for wildlife, including ibex and golden eagles, making it a great destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany
Area: 36,000 hectares
Highest Peak: Falkenstein (556 meters)
Famous Trails: Malerweg Trail
Points of Interest: Sandstone cliffs, rock formations, rivers
Located in the eastern part of Germany, Saxon Switzerland National Park is a hidden gem for hikers. The park is famous for its dramatic sandstone rock formations, deep valleys, and flowing rivers, creating a uniquely beautiful landscape.
The Malerweg Trail is one of the most famous hikes in the park, taking hikers through lush forests, past impressive rock towers, and along the Elbe River. The trail is moderate in difficulty and offers spectacular views of the iconic Bastei Bridge, which spans the Elbe River.
The park’s picturesque rock formations and deep gorges make it one of the most visually captivating hiking destinations in Europe.
Pyrenees National Park, France
Area: 45,000 hectares
Highest Peak: Vignemale (3,298 meters)
Famous Trails: GR10, Néouvielle Nature Reserve
Points of Interest: Glaciers, deep valleys, alpine lakes
Stretching across the French-Spanish border, the Pyrenees National Park offers a perfect blend of rugged mountains, glaciers, and lush valleys. The GR10 is one of Europe’s classic long-distance hiking trails, running from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea.
One of the park’s highlights is the Néouvielle Nature Reserve, home to over 70 alpine lakes and providing some of the most picturesque hiking routes in the Pyrenees. For those seeking a challenge, Vignemale, the park’s highest peak, offers stunning views of surrounding glaciers and valleys.
This national park is perfect for hikers seeking a blend of alpine scenery and cultural heritage, with trails offering access to both natural wonders and charming French villages.
Guided hiking trips
For those looking for a more relaxed and informative hiking experience, guided hiking trips are an excellent option. These tours provide expert guidance, logistical convenience, and a deeper understanding of the landscapes you’re exploring.
Why opt for a guided tour?
- Expert knowledge: Local guides offer insights into the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders, enriching your hiking experience.
- Safety: Guides ensure your safety with their knowledge of the terrain and weather conditions, which is especially important in challenging environments like the Dolomites or Swiss Alps.
- Convenience: All logistics, including transport, accommodation, and meals, are taken care of, allowing you to focus entirely on the hike.
- Tailored experiences: Whether you’re seeking an easy coastal hike or a more challenging alpine trek, guided tours cater to all skill levels.
Popular guided hiking destinations in Europe
- Dolomites (Italy): Explore the Alta Via 1 or Sentiero degli Alpini with expert guides from companies like Dolomite Mountains.
- Swiss National Park (Switzerland): Trek through diverse landscapes with guides from Trekking Switzerland or Swiss Alpine Adventures.
- Gran Paradiso National Park (Italy): Join Wild Torino’s tours for a peaceful hike through this stunning park.
- Pyrenees National Park (France): Explore alpine lakes and valleys with France’s Trekking Adventures.
Guided hiking trips may come at a premium, but they offer incredible value by combining expert guidance with convenience, safety, and a rich, immersive experience of Europe’s best national parks.
Hiking gear essentials
Having the right gear can make all the difference between an enjoyable hike and a challenging one, here are the essentials you shouldn’t hit the trail without.
- Footwear: Good-quality hiking boots, suitable for the terrain.
- Clothing: Layered clothing that can adjust to changing weather conditions.
- Backpack: Lightweight but spacious enough for snacks, water, and a first aid kit.
- Navigation tools: Map, compass, and GPS.
- Water and food: Hydration system and lightweight, non-perishable snacks like energy bars or dried fruits.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: Protection from UV rays, especially at higher altitudes.
To finish up…
Europe’s national parks offer a wealth of stunning landscapes and thrilling trails that attract hikers from around the world. Whether you’re scaling the towering peaks of the Dolomites, hiking along the rugged coastline of Cinque Terre, or exploring the alpine wonders of the Swiss National Park, you’re sure to experience some of Europe’s most spectacular natural beauty.
Remember to prepare adequately for your hike, plan your routes carefully, and, most importantly, consider getting hiking insurance to ensure a safe and worry-free adventure. Happy hiking!
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This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation.