15 European National Parks That Offer the Best Trails for Hiking Enthusiasts
Headed to Europe, eager to fit in a small hiking trip? Why not broaden your horizons and venture across the best national parks in Europe, some of which have unique natural attractions? Here are some hike-friendly destinations that every naturalist in Europe will go crazy for:
Dolomiti Bellunesi, Italy
Nestled along the gorgeous peaks of the Dolomites mountain range, the Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park brings some of the world’s most diverse landscapes all under one roof. It boasts Monti del Sole, Alpi Feltrine, and other Dolomite peaks. Tourists typically plan elaborate hiking trips, exploring the peaks, climbing to the top, and taking glamorous snapshots. Still, you can also plan a calmer itinerary that gradually takes you through the park and its surroundings as you camp out in a tent.
Eryri National Park, Wales
More commonly known as Snowdonia, this national park brings you glacial landscapes and mighty peaks scattered along northwest Wales. Snowdonia is best known for the Snowdon Mountain Railway, which precariously traverses to Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales. Naturally, thousands of tourists flock from all over to get a ride. Still, there’s plenty to do in Snowdonia, including exploring its historical sites and forts, taking scenic walks, hiking, trekking, mountain climbing, and even exploring Neolithic burial chambers.
Peak District, UK, England
To the south of Peak District, UK, England, you’ll find steep limestone valleys, while closer to the north side (White Peak), you’ll meet dark, edgy ridges and moorland plateaus (Dark Peak). Now, if you’re on a short trip, you can explore the rather intricate cultures hidden in the White Peak or the more dramatic storylines of the Dark Peak. But if you’ve got enough time, make it at least a 4-night stay to explore the main attractions on both ends, like Kinder Scout, Kathkill Dale, and Dovedale.
Pyrenees National Park, France
Although the Pyrenees aren’t usually on your family-friendly destinations list, the National Park is another story. Located on a relatively calm section of the French Pyrenees, the national park invites all nature lovers to explore its gorgeous landscapes and learn more about its surroundings. It’s perfect for all adult families who want to go off into the woods without straying too far from family. It’s also ideal for couples hoping to spice things up. Of course, grizzly-watching tours are always an added benefit.
Wielkopolski National Park, Poland
The Greater Poland National Park is one of the most attractive destinations near Poznan, Poland. With acres of luscious green trees slowly reaching the shore, the Wielkopolski, or Greater Poland National Park, is the perfect retreat for people who want a few moments of peace. With the wind blowing against your hair and the lake glinting under the sun, you’ll see the world in a new light. That’s not all; the park has many fun activities beyond hiking, like biking and even meeting swans along the pond.
Jotunheimen National Park, Norway
Jotunheimen is a mountainous area in Norway that boasts some of the country’s most eye-catching peaks and overlooks glacial lakes. The Jotunheimen National Park covers a vast area, allowing tourists to glimpse into a world they can only call bliss. Jotunheimen National Park has some of the most gorgeous hiking trails; although you’ll have to travel far to reach there, it’s perfectly safe for families and younger people. Hiking, kayaking, fishing, canoeing, camping, biking, walking, and wildlife tours are just some of the things you can do here.
Greater Mosse National Park, Sweden
The largest marsh area in southern Sweden, Greater Mosse, teems with life in a way you can’t imagine. The park boasts some of the most impressive fauna and flora you’ll ever see, with the latter even inviting teams of researchers eager to get a peek. Winters bring skiing and guided tours of the snowy peaks while hiking, bird watching, cycling, and eagle-feeding happen year-round.
Triglav National Park, Slovenia
Head to Slovenia and find some of its best natural landmarks in the Triglav National Park. The park lies in northwest Slovenia, right amid Mount Triglav, the highest peak in the Julian Alps. It boasts some of Slovenia’s most beautiful natural trails, attracting thousands of naturalists yearly. Despite its stunning allure, Slovenia isn’t often on most tourists’ wish lists, so even introverts will find the park charming. Locals recommend spending at least 5 days exploring the park, camping at night, and hiking during the day.
Mols Bjerge National Park, Denmark
Nestled in the foothills of the Mols, the Mols Bjerge National Park brings you the calmest and most serene landscapes in Scandinavia. Although it may look a bit plain, it’s one of the most popular hiking spots in the area. That’s not all; if you’ve got enough time, you can even visit relics and sites dating back to the Stone Age. It’s also perfectly safe for children, so you can make a family-friendly trip.
Calanques, Marseille, France
Spanning over 20 kilometers and connecting Marseille with Cassis, the park is named so because of the 26-something calanques (coves) that appear along its hiking routes. Naturally, it’s a fit spot for any hiker, but you can even squeeze in a few other activities that explore the park’s rugged terrain. Amazingly, it has all sorts of hike spots, ranging from easy to complex, so you can get the adrenaline rush or skip it altogether, depending on what you want.
Danube Delta, Romania
Danube Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage site that takes you across some of Romania’s most dramatic coves and canals, all filled with an impressive concentration of bird colonies. It amps the hype with long, winding passageways and edgy canyons overlooking calm ponds, allowing every tourist to hike through the area. Tourists can bird watch along the way, so ensure you time your hike with the migratory seasons of native birds.
Holosiivskyi National Park, Ukraine
Located in the heart of Kyiv, Ukraine, Holosiivskyi National Park boasts a serene landscape featuring gorgeous trails, dense forests, and pristine ponds, creating the picture-perfect destination. Holosiivskyi has over a hundred parks, so it’s perfect for people who want to take their time with the trip. Naturally, it invites tourists to take scenic walks along its trail, but if they feel more adventurous, they can tackle one of its many stunning hiking trails.
Vesuvio National Park, Italy
Vesuvio or Vesuvius National Park in Italy unites you with the best destination around Naples, Mount Vesuvius, an active volcano. Naturally, too many are eager to hike the difficult terrain, which runs along the rugged area and eventually leads to the top. You can even plan your hike to witness the sunrise from the top of the crater. From there, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the entire area and the routes leading up to Naples, just 6 miles away.
Picos de Europa, Spain
If you’re a sucker for dramatic sceneries and stunning views that could put even the best artists to shame, you’ll love Picos de Europa, a massive national park boasting some of Spain’s best features. Showcasing brilliant steel blue glacial lakes, rocky trails, and deep caves, Picos de Europa has lots to see and explore. This is why it’s one of the prime spots for hiking, so the trails know no bounds.
Sassen–Bünsow Land National Park, Svalbard
If you’re willing to take it up a notch and aren’t afraid to back down from a challenge, visit Spitsbergen Island in Svalbard. Here, tough, snowy peaks are one of the most difficult hiking trails, which is why this destination is best for those who love a good challenge. Of course, there are also some easier hiking trails, but where’s the fun in that? Ensure you keep up with the peak seasons and don’t get carried away with the weather so you can enjoy its icy beauty without danger.
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Emese Maczko is a travel blogger behind Eco Lodges Anywhere. Having explored several destinations around Europe, the US, Indonesia, and Australia, and resided in Germany, the United Kingdom, and Luxembourg, Emese possesses a keen understanding of diverse cultures and an appreciation for the beauty of each destination she visits. She advocates for sustainable travel and ecotourism.