Europe is a walker’s dream. From well-worn pilgrimage routes to high alpine trails, it offers some of the most iconic and rewarding walking and hiking holidays in the world. Whether you’re drawn to the idea of quiet days on forested paths or sweeping views from rugged mountain passes, Europe has a trail that will speak to you.
At Back Track Adventures, we specialise in helping travellers experience these landscapes in the best way possible. That means well-paced itineraries, comfortable accommodation, expert local support, and options to suit all fitness levels. Here are some of our top picks for walking and hiking holidays in Europe.
The Camino de Santiago, Spain
No list of Europe’s best walks would be complete without mentioning the Camino. The Camino de Santiago is not just one trail, but a network of ancient pilgrimage routes stretching across Spain and into France and Portugal, all ending at the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.
The most popular route is the Camino Francés, which begins in the French town of St Jean Pied de Port and winds its way over the Pyrenees, through rolling farmland and historic villages, across the vast plains of Castilla and León, and into the green hills of Galicia.
Walking the Camino is less about the distance and more about the journey. It is a physical, cultural and sometimes spiritual experience that draws people from all walks of life. You don’t need to do the full 800 kilometres. Many people choose to walk the last 100 kilometres from Sarria, which is enough to earn the official Compostela certificate and enjoy a rich slice of the Camino experience.
Back Track can help you with both guided and self-guided options, so whether you prefer the company of fellow walkers or the freedom to move at your own pace, we can tailor a Camino journey to suit you.
The Dolomites, Italy
For those who love big mountain scenery, the Dolomites in northern Italy deliver something truly special. These jagged limestone peaks are some of the most striking in Europe, and the walking trails that wind through them are as varied as they are spectacular.
You might find yourself walking across flower-filled meadows, through pine forests, along dramatic ridgelines, and past remote alpine huts serving fresh strudel and mountain cheese. The Dolomites are famous for their mix of Italian and Austrian culture, which you’ll taste in the food and hear in the languages spoken in the villages.
There are trails here for all levels, from gentle half-day hikes between villages to more demanding routes for experienced trekkers. One of the best ways to experience the region is on a hut-to-hut walk, staying in rifugi along the way. These mountain lodges are warm, welcoming, and well-equipped, offering hot meals and comfortable beds with million-dollar views.
We can help organise guided small group trips or supported self-guided itineraries with luggage transfers and pre-booked accommodation, so all you need to do is enjoy the walk.
The West Highland Way, Scotland
Scotland’s most famous long-distance trail, the West Highland Way, stretches 154 kilometres from the outskirts of Glasgow to the foot of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain. It is a journey through some of the most dramatic and wild landscapes in Britain, from lochside paths and ancient woodlands to open moorland and rugged glens.
Highlights include walking along the shores of Loch Lomond, crossing the desolate beauty of Rannoch Moor, and arriving in the picturesque town of Fort William at the end of the trail. The route is well marked and can be done in around seven to eight days, with accommodation ranging from cosy inns to traditional guesthouses.
The West Highland Way is ideal for travellers who want a mix of nature, history and local character. It is also a great introduction to long-distance walking, with plenty of support services, luggage transfer options, and friendly locals along the way.
At Back Track, we can organise both guided and self-guided versions of the trail, including extra nights for rest or sightseeing and optional detours for whisky tastings or side hikes.
The Julian Alps, Slovenia
Tucked between Austria and Italy, Slovenia remains one of Europe’s best-kept secrets for walking holidays. The Julian Alps, part of the Triglav National Park, offer breathtaking alpine scenery, quiet trails, and charming villages that still feel untouched by mass tourism.
The jewel in the crown is Lake Bled, a postcard-perfect spot with a fairytale island church and castle overlooking the water. But it is the trails that lead beyond Bled into the high mountains that truly impress. From dramatic ridgelines and glacial lakes to meadows dotted with wildflowers, the walking here is both peaceful and visually stunning.
One of the most rewarding hikes is through the Valley of the Seven Lakes, a high-mountain circuit that offers a mix of moderate and challenging terrain, with the option to stay in traditional mountain huts along the way. For those wanting something less strenuous, there are lower valley walks and village-to-village routes that still deliver great scenery without the elevation gain.
Slovenia is also a great choice for travellers interested in combining walking with local food, wine and cultural experiences. The hospitality is warm, the meals are hearty, and the pace of life encourages you to slow down and take it all in.
Why Book Your European Walking Holiday with Back Track?
At Back Track Adventures, we do more than just book your accommodation and send you off with a map. We help craft your journey from the ground up, based on your walking experience, fitness level, interests and travel style.
Whether you’re after a fully guided group trek or a self-guided experience with behind-the-scenes support, we’ll help you choose the right trail, the right time of year, and the right pace. We work with experienced local partners to ensure you’re well looked after from start to finish.
We also take care of the extras. That means luggage transfers, extra nights in beautiful spots, tips on what to pack, and support in case plans need to change. Our goal is to make your walking holiday not just memorable, but seamless.
Walking holidays are about more than just exercise. They’re about seeing the world slowly, noticing the small details, meeting locals, and earning each view one step at a time. Europe offers countless opportunities to walk through history, across landscapes shaped by time, and into cultures that welcome you in.
If you’re ready to lace up your boots and take on a European trail, get in touch with the team at Back Track. We’ll help you plan a walking holiday that matches your pace, your passion, and your sense of adventure.
