Europe is home to some of the most stunning coastlines, each with its own unique charm. And, what better way to explore them than on a walking holiday? Here are some of the stunning destinations and trails for those who love to stay by the water!
Scotland
Scotland is no doubt one of the most incredible walking holiday destinations in the continent, known for its untamed natural beauty. The Scottish Highlands, in particular, is where you will find numerous breathtaking coastal paths, surrounded by lush green landscapes and dramatic mountain peaks.
One of such paths is walking the magical Isle of Skye, from Ardvasar to Portree. Since you’re on an isle, the coast is never too far away. However, this 8-day trip will take you through various otherworldly landscapes, from emerald valleys and ancient archeological sites, to panoramic views of the mountains and coastlines. You will stop by historic villages to rest, where you’ll get to taste the delicious local whiskey and food.
Another highly popular route in the Highlands is the Great Glen Way from Fort William to Inverness, taking 7 to 8 days to complete. This route connects two coasts, following beautiful lochs throughout the way, including the iconic Loch Ness. Many believe that the Great Glen Way showcases the essence of Scotland perfectly, with a mix of local history and jaw-dropping nature.
Portugal
On the opposite side of Europe, Portugal’s Atlantic coastline offers a completely different experience, with mild weather throughout the year and accessible trails. The Rota Vicentina, one of Portugal’s most known walking holiday destinations, is a network of trails alongside the country’s southwestern coast. The Fisherman’s Trail, for instance, takes you from Porto Covo to Odeceixe, stopping at traditional fishing villages and secluded beaches along the way.
Moreover, the Camino Portugues Coastal Route is a must-mention when it comes to stunning coastal trails. As part of the infamous Camino de Santiago network, the route originally started in Lisbon and finished in Santiago de Compostela, entering Spain in the final third of the journey. However, you could choose to do a shorter alternative of the route, hugging the northwestern part of the coast from Porto.
Croatia
Last, but certainly not least, Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast is filled with distinctive Balkan character. The limestone rock formations towering above the turquoise waters and medieval towns with Roman ruins are a sight that’s difficult to find outside of the Mediterranean. Dubrovnik, often serving as a starting and ending point, is not just known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic” due to its remarkable beauty, but also the filming location for the “Game of Thrones” series.
Similarly, Croatia is also home to hundreds of exotic islands and islets, making it an ideal destination for island hopping. Within a single holiday, you could walk around Brač, Hvar, Korčula and Vis, where you will see some of the clearest waters of your life along with the most unspoiled coastal landscapes.
Planning your coastal walking holiday
If you need help handling the logistics of your walking holiday, Orbis Ways is a specialist agency that can help you. Boasting 4.7 / 5 star reviews on Trustpilot, the company is known for their attentive service, creating tailored holiday itineraries for your wants and needs. Orbis Ways will also handle all of the logistics, including accommodation, transportation and luggage transfers, allowing you to focus entirely on the experience.
So, there’s nothing else left to do – pick your destination, pack your bags, put your best walking shoes on and get ready to be blown away by Europe’s most gorgeous coastlines!
