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Best Island Hiking in Europe - A Comprehensive Overview

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, December 21st 2025 at 16:27 GMT by Travel + Leisure

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Best Island Hiking in Europe – A Comprehensive Overview

Travel + Leisure’s feature “Best Island Hiking in Europe” takes readers on a virtual trek across some of the continent’s most scenic islands, spotlighting the trails that combine rugged landscapes, historic vistas, and unforgettable experiences. While the article itself is a rich mix of photographs, itineraries, and practical advice, the following summary distills the key take‑aways, the islands highlighted, and the unique attributes that make each hike stand out.

1. Introduction – Why Island Hikes Matter

The article opens with a discussion of why island hikes are a must‑do for adventure seekers: isolation from mainland traffic, dramatic sea‑cliff contrasts, and often a blend of natural and cultural history. It notes that Europe’s island offerings range from the volcanic slopes of the Azores to the ancient ruins of Crete, each presenting a distinct challenge and reward. The author encourages readers to pair their hikes with local cuisine and accommodations that capture the island’s essence.

2. The Islands and Their Signature Trails

Travel + Leisure curates a list of ten islands—each accompanied by a flagship trail, estimated distance, difficulty level, and a link to deeper resources such as local tourism boards or trail maps. Below is a quick snapshot of the islands featured:

(All distances are approximate “out & back” totals unless noted otherwise.)

3. Trail‑by‑Trail Highlights

Madeira – Pico Ruivo

• Route: Begins at the Pico Ruivo trailhead, ascends through pine forest and sub‑alpine vegetation, then cuts across the island’s most dramatic ridge.
• Key Points: At the summit, hikers are rewarded with 360° views of the Atlantic and the surrounding volcanic peaks.
• Practical Info: The walk can be split into two days with a stop at a mountain hut. The article links to the Madeira Tourism Board’s official trail map and a gear checklist tailored to high‑altitude hikes.

Sicily – Mount Etna

• Route: The Etna Summit Trail starts near the Rifugio Sapienza base and snakes up the active volcano’s flank.
• Key Points: Passes lava columns, sulfur vents, and a crater edge.
• Practical Info: The author emphasizes checking the volcano’s activity status via the Italian Civil Protection website (link provided) before planning the trek.

Santorini – Caldera Ridge

• Route: From Oia to Fira, the path follows the cliff line, offering panoramic views of the caldera’s turquoise waters.
• Key Points: The hike is famed for its sunsets, with several photogenic viewpoints.
• Practical Info: The article advises traveling early to avoid crowds, and links to the Hellenic Tourism Ministry’s visitor guidelines for Santorini.

Crete – Samaria Gorge

• Route: A long, but rewarding trek from the village of Omalos to the Libyan Sea.
• Key Points: Traverses ancient olive groves, passes through a gorge with a winding stream, and ends at a beach.
• Practical Info: Entry is controlled by a daily permit system (link to the official Cretan National Park website). The article also lists the best times (late spring/early autumn) to avoid the summer heat.

Corsica – GR20

• Route: The GR20 is an alpine trail spanning the island; the “Cros” segment is highlighted as one of the most breathtaking sections.
• Key Points: Features granite ridges, high alpine meadows, and dramatic creeks.
• Practical Info: A multi‑day trek that requires careful planning; the article directs readers to the French National Mountain Guide (Géoportail) for trail maps and a recommended itinerary.

Mallorca – Torrent de Pareis

• Route: From the valley of Torrent de Pareis to the sea, this canyon trail is both scenic and challenging.
• Key Points: The gorge’s sheer walls and the turquoise river make for an intense visual experience.
• Practical Info: The author warns about unpredictable weather and suggests wearing sturdy hiking boots; a link to the Mallorca Tourism Board’s safety guidelines is included.

Azores – Sete Cidades Loop

• Route: The loop covers both crater lakes—Ponta da Ferraria and Lagoa das Sete Cidades—surrounded by volcanic cliffs.
• Key Points: Offers views of the twin lakes, lush greenery, and the chance to see local wildlife.
• Practical Info: The trail is suitable for most fitness levels; the article links to the Azores Regional Tourism Board’s interactive trail map.

Samos – Mount Kerkis

• Route: From the village of Marathaki to the summit, this walk is a quiet journey through pine forests.
• Key Points: The summit hosts ancient rock carvings and offers panoramic views of the Aegean.
• Practical Info: A short, easy trail perfect for families; the article references the Greek National Tourism Organization’s recommendations.

Ischia – Mount Epomeo

• Route: Starts at the town of Ischia and climbs to the highest peak on the island.
• Key Points: Along the way, hikers pass thermal springs and watch the island’s volcanic past.
• Practical Info: The hike can be combined with a visit to the Castello Aragonese; links to the local tourism office’s event calendar are provided.

Iceland – Snæfellsjökull

• Route: A gentle glacier walk with clear paths to the ice cap and surrounding basalt formations.
• Key Points: Offers a surreal combination of ice, lava, and sea.
• Practical Info: The article links to the Icelandic Tourist Board’s safety briefing and recommended gear list.

4. Practical Tips and Resources

The article is not just a list; it’s a practical guide. For each island, the author includes:

• Best Time to Hike: Seasonal windows that offer optimal weather and fewer crowds.
• Gear Recommendations: Waterproof jackets, trekking poles, hydration packs, and sturdy footwear.
• Safety Precautions: Links to local emergency numbers, official park warnings, and weather monitoring tools.
• Local Eats & Accommodations: Suggestions for restaurants serving regional specialties and boutique hotels that blend into the natural surroundings.

In addition to the island‑specific links, the article aggregates a set of general resources such as:

• Travel + Leisure’s hiking gear guide (link to their shop and reviews).
• The European Hiking Federation’s trail standards (link to the federation’s website for certification information).
• A “Hiking in Europe” e‑newsletter (link to subscribe).

5. Conclusion – Why These Trails Matter

Travel + Leisure emphasizes that hiking is a way to “connect” with the island’s soul: the flora, fauna, folklore, and the sea that surrounds it. Each trail is more than a route; it’s a narrative thread that ties history to geography. Whether you’re after the dizzying heights of Pico Ruivo or the tranquil flow of the Torrent de Pareis, the article provides a roadmap that blends adventure with cultural enrichment.

The feature is especially valuable for those planning multi‑island itineraries. By combining a few of these highlighted hikes, travelers can experience Europe’s island diversity in a compact yet deeply immersive way. The article concludes with an invitation to explore, respect local regulations, and return home with stories that only a good hike can deliver.

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