Top European Destinations for Outdoorsy People
Whether you're a hiking enthusiast or an amateur kayaker, here are some of Europe's top destinations that cater to outdoor enthusiasts.
Scottish Highlands
In the northwest of Scotland, the Highlands boast some of the UK’s most remote beauty. Loch Ness, home to the mythical Nessie, lies at the centre, while dolphins swim in the Moray Firth near Inverness, the region’s administrative capital.
Hikers can ramble through the Highlands’ sweeping moorlands and mountain trails, including the Ben Nevis Mountain Track. The region was recently ranked the UK’s top destination for wild swimming thanks to its crystal-clear lochs and remote coastal spots. Loch Lomond, a 45-minute drive away from Glasgow, was named the most picturesque spot, with impressive waterfalls and a forest backdrop.
Mont Blanc, France
Mont Blanc, situated on the Franco-Italian border, rises to a height of 15,774 feet and has long been a magnet for climbers and hikers. During the summer, the snow cover melts away to reveal well-maintained trails for guided hikes and multi-day treks, such as the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc, which circumnavigates the mountain across France, Italy, and Switzerland.
The range of Mont Blanc hiking tours available includes less-traveled paths for those who want to avoid tourist crowds. If you’re unsure about attempting the whole circuit, you can enjoy day hikes and cable-car-accessible viewpoints for an unforgettable alpine experience.
Lake District, England
The Lake District in England’s Northwest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, long renowned for its serene lakes and literary connections. The Lake Poets, including William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and Robert Southey, all lived in the district during the first half of the nineteenth century, making it an ideal stop for literature enthusiasts.
The trails in the Lake District are diverse, ranging from the knife-edge ridges and sweeping views of Helvellyn via Striding Edge to more leisurely strolls along the lakeside. The region has experienced a rise in off-grid accommodations in recent years. You can opt for luxury glamping pods with fire pits or an eco-lodge with stunning lake views after a day of hiking.
Snowdonia, Wales
Mount Snowdon, or Yr Wyddfa in Welsh, is the highest peak in Wales and can be reached via several hiking routes. There are six routes to the summit, with Llanberis Path, a nine-mile hike with an ascent of over 3,000 feet, being the most popular. For a more challenging route, try the Watkin Path, which offers a longer route and the highest ascent.
For an adrenaline-pumping experience, try canyoning along Snowdonia’s gorges by swimming, sliding, and jumping down the cascading mountain river. Kayaking on Llyn Padarn in Llanberis is a gentler alternative that’s perfect for families with younger children.
