Europe, celebrated for its culturally vibrant and walkable cities, also boasts a wealth of hiking opportunities for those yearning to venture beyond urban landscapes. As new trails and unique offers—such as free accommodation on certain islands—emerge, hikers have more options than ever to explore.
Uncovering Underrated Trails
For those seeking less-traveled paths, Much Better Adventures has curated a list of Europe’s most underrated hiking routes. These trails, each over 20 kilometers long and boasting high average ratings despite limited reviews, offer a refreshing alternative to well-trodden paths.
Top-Ranked Trails
Leading the pack is Iceland’s Laugavegur Trail in Thórsmörk. This 52.9-kilometer hike showcases a dramatic mix of colorful rhyolite mountains, thermal pools, glaciers, and volcanic slopes. In second place, Switzerland’s Edelweiss Höhbalmen Trail delivers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn. Poland’s Palenica Białczańska Trail rounds out the top three, featuring stunning mountainous landscapes and vibrant blue lakes.
Additional Noteworthy Trails
Other standout trails include:
- Ehrwald, Coburger Hütte, Austria
- Val Ferret, Les Ars Dessous, Italy
- Fimmvörðuháls Trail, Skógar, Þórsmörk, Iceland
- PR17, Caminho do Pináculo e Folhadal, Bica da Cana, Portugal
- French Way, Melide, O Pino, Spain
- Pradera de Ordesa, Cola de Caballo, Refugio de Goriz, Spain and France
- Palenica Białczańska, Five Polish Ponds Valley, Morskie Oko, Poland
Embark on Your Next Adventure
Whether you’re looking for dramatic landscapes, serene lakes, or panoramic mountain views, these underrated trails offer a diverse range of hiking experiences across Europe. For further inspiration, explore our detailed guides to the best hikes in the UK and around the globe.