January 18, 2020

Hiking in Europe Without the Crowds

Get off the beaten path on these hiking journeys in Europe

Europe is a popular destination for all types of travelers, and of course, an adventure is even better when you know how to break away from the herd! Whether it’s a quiet village in the foothills of the Dinaric Alps or a dramatic coastal cliffside, our trips are crafted to take you to a world of your own.

We have decades of experience in Europe, and all our excursions have an ideal mix of untouristed regions and must-see attractions. From small Greek islands rich in ancient mythology to a Georgian supra feast hosted by our Trip Leader’s extended family—we’ll introduce you to our local friends and show you an authentic side of Europe you’ve only imagined.

Person in a yellow jacket hiking towards a white church with a red roof in a picturesque European village, surrounded by grass-covered houses and snow-capped mountains. No crowds disrupt this serene landscape.

Hiking the Faroe Islands | View Itinerary

Halfway between Iceland and Scotland, the scenery of the Faroe Islands boasts an otherworldly contrast of cloud-piercing mountain peaks and black-sand beaches. As we walk emerald moorlands and visit colorful Nordic communities, we’ll meet the enthusiastic (and sometimes eccentric) artisans of this remote, yet enchanting archipelago.

Tall sea stack in the ocean surrounded by rocky cliff edges and patches of green vegetation under a cloudy European sky, perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking to escape the crowds.

Scotland’s Orkney Islands and Viking Heritage | View Itinerary

Discover dramatic sea cliffs as we hike the coastlines of Scotland’s far north. Crossing verdant headlands with spectacular views, we’ll encounter the Old Man of Hoy (a precariously tall sea stack), explore a 5,000-year-old Neolithic village, and learn about the Viking heritage of the Orkney Islands from a local boat builder.

Two ancient stone structures with conical roofs are situated on a grassy hilltop in Europe, with a backdrop of misty mountains and fluffy clouds. This serene spot may attract the occasional hiking enthusiast, but you'll seldom encounter crowds here.

Hiker’s Journey to the Caucasus | View Itinerary

Join our friendly Trip Leader, Eka, as we hike lodge-to-lodge across the rolling mountains of her native home, the Republic of Georgia. In this unspoiled region, we’ll follow pine-covered trails through wild Tusheti National Park and learn about Georgia’s ancient wine-making traditions. Our stays include family-run guesthouses in villages undisturbed by time.

A group of hikers stands at a trail intersection surrounded by green mountains under a partly cloudy European sky. They appear to be discussing or taking a break. A signpost with trail directions is visible, guiding more enthusiastic crowds through the scenic trails.

From France to Spain: Hiking in the Basque Country | View Itinerary

Our route through this undiscovered mountain realm passes through the beautiful Basque villages of Baraibar and Betelu, where white-washed homes with red-tiled roofs nestle amid rolling hills and vineyards. Along the way, we’ll savor local cheese, delightful wines, and indulge in a pintxo lunch (or two!).

A group of hikers trekking on a steep mountain trail surrounded by rocky terrain and grassy slopes, with a majestic European mountain range in the background under a clear blue sky, blissfully free from crowds.

Montenegro and the Adriatic Coast | View Itinerary

Escape the coastal crowds in an undiscovered hiker’s paradise of craggy limestone peaks, primeval woodlands, and jewel-like mountain lakes. Our Montenegro adventure takes us through the Durmitor mountains, south to the rustic town Kolasin—the gateway to the stunning forests of Biogradska Gora National Park.

A charming hilltop village with clustered houses and a quaint church, set amidst lush greenery, offers the perfect escape for hiking enthusiasts. Experience the serene beauty of Europe away from the bustling crowds under a clear blue sky.

Croatia: Istria and the Dalmatian Coast | View Itinerary

This carefully designed hiking route takes us to the hidden corners of Croatia, through olive groves and truffle country, to hill towns straight out of a fairy tale. From castle-topped Motovun, to sleepy Gracisce, to cliff-side Lubenice, our journey showcases the natural beauty and authentic splendor of Istria and the Dalmatian Coast.

A historic stone bridge spans a river, connecting buildings with varied architectural styles under a partly cloudy sky, often attracting crowds of tourists exploring Europe.

From Bratislava to Prague | View Itinerary

Enter a realm of enchanting castles, ancient monuments, and rich traditions as we travel from Bratislava to Prague. Our knowledgeable Trip Leaders bring the region’s stories to life, as we follow paths through the serene countryside and into historic towns including medieval Telc and UNESCO-designated Cesky Krumlov.

A person with a hat and backpack walks down stone steps leading to a scenic coastal village in Europe, with the sea and an island in the background, enjoying a quiet hike without the crowds.

Hiking in the Greek Isles | View Itinerary

Jump between dazzling Greek islands on this isolated hiking tour steeped in ancient Greek history. Traditional stone-paved paths lead us between villages, past frescoed churches, and even to the fabled birthplaces of Zeus, Apollo, and Artemis! There is no better way to bring Greek mythology to life than to learn from our expert leaders where the legends originated.