As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, it's time to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails. While the UK offers some excellent walking options, why not explore further afield in 2026? Europe has some epic hiking possibilities for everything from big views and challenging altitudes to gentler lakeside strolls. Walking holidays offer a unique way to explore a destination, and with the popularity of active holidays on the rise, you won't be alone in considering a walking holiday in 2026. According to travel operator Explore, interest in active holidays was up 29% this year, with walking holidays up as much as 52% since before the Covid pandemic. But with a wealth of options to pick from, which walking holidays are the best? As a travel writer, I've curated a list of the trips I would recommend. One of the most breathtaking options is a seven-night guided walking trip in Northern Italy's Unesco-listed Adamello Brenta Natural Park. There's a choice of two different walks each day, with an expert guide, so you can choose from lakeside strolls along turquoise waters and olive groves to more challenging mountain hikes, appreciating the rugged limestone peaks. Accommodation is at the small, family-run Hotel Regina Elena in the village of Caderzone Terme, a central spot to explore from. The scenic route takes in the famous Five Lakes, the Nardis Waterfalls, and the Genova Valley, as well as a day trip to the western shore of Lake Garda. This trip is perfect for those seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure. Another option is a walking holiday in the Greek Islands of Lefkas and Meganisi. These islands offer raw beauty, olive groves, waterfalls, quiet mountain trails, and villages where cobbled streets lead to stone houses and local tavernas. The views are jaw-dropping, but the islands aren't overrun with tourists. Lefkas is famous for its dramatic white cliffs, and Meganisi has hidden beaches, clear waters, and an authentic laid-back charm. This is a great choice for those seeking a more secluded and authentic experience. For those who want to explore Spain's largest mountain range, the Sierra Nevada in Andalusia, a three-day weekend trip from Ramble Worldwide is a new offering for 2026. Based in the picturesque town of Lanjarón, with fresh spring water and tranquil squares, it's an excellent location for walking through the natural beauty of the national park. An expert local guide will take an average group size of 10-12 on challenging hikes, including a stretch of the GR7, the famous long-distance hiking trail that's part of the E4 European walking route. This trip is perfect for those seeking a mix of adventure and cultural immersion. Slovenia's Triglav National Park is another stunning option for an eight-day walking holiday. This trip is full of natural wonders, big vistas, and traditional farming villages. It takes in the Julian Alps, Lake Bohinj (Slovenia's largest glacial lake), and Savica Waterfall in the walls of the Komarca Gorge. Stay at The Art Kristal Hotel, a family-run property on Lake Bohinj, with mountain and countryside views. The hikes are graded 'leisurely' or 'moderate' with four to seven hours of walking on five of the days, with a tour leader, so a good level of fitness is needed. This trip is perfect for those seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation. Finally, for those who want to explore the rugged beauty of Ireland's west coast, a six-day Walkers' Britain and Europe trip starts in Galway City, home to lively pubs and traditional Irish music. From there, it heads to the remote Aran Islands to walk to the ancient Black Fort and stand at the edge of Dun Aonghasa, a prehistoric stone fortress thought to be 3,000 years old. Walkers will then head back to the mainland to hike Connemara's Western Way and embark on an old pilgrim trail through the Maumturk Mountain, before visiting Leenane, a village on Ireland's only fjord. This trip is perfect for those seeking a mix of cultural immersion and adventure. In my opinion, these walking holidays offer a unique way to explore a destination, and I believe they are the best options for those seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Each trip offers a different experience, and I encourage readers to choose the one that best suits their interests and preferences. Personally, I think that these walking holidays are a great way to explore the world and experience new cultures, and I can't wait to embark on one of these adventures in 2026.
