Europe's Best Hidden Hiking Trails: From the snow-capped peaks of the Alps to the rugged mountains of Norway, Europe has many hidden hiking trails. 

The Lycian Way in Turkey is a 500-kilometer trail along the Mediterranean coast, providing breathtaking views of the sea and ancient ruins. It is considered one of the best-hidden hiking trails in Europe, as it offers a unique cultural experience combined with natural beauty.

 

The trail is challenging, with steep ascents and descents, but hikers are rewarded with stunning views of the turquoise sea below. The route also passes through mountainous terrain and pristine beaches, providing a diverse range of landscapes. For those looking for a challenging and rewarding hiking experience, the Lycian Way is not to be missed.

The Rila Monastery to Mount Musala trail in Bulgaria is a hidden gem and one of the best hiking trails in Europe. The trail takes hikers through deep forests and bubbling streams, providing stunning views of the Rila Mountains. The highlight of the hike is reaching the summit of Mount Musala, the highest peak in the Balkans, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

 

The route also passes through unique cultural sites such as the Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For those seeking a challenging hiking experience combined with cultural and natural beauty, the Rila Monastery to Mount Musala trail is a must-do.

The West Highland Way is a famous long-distance hiking trail in Scotland and one of the best hidden hiking trails in Europe. It covers 154 kilometers from Milngavie to Fort William and takes hikers through some of Scotland's most awe-inspiring landscapes.

 

The trail winds through tranquil Loch Lomond, rugged Glencoe, and the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles. The route also passes through charming villages, providing an authentic cultural experience. The West Highland Way offers something for hikers of all levels, from easy walks to challenging hikes, making it a must-do for any hiking enthusiast visiting Scotland.

The Alta Via 1 in Italy is a challenging yet rewarding hiking trail that takes hikers through some of the most stunning landscapes in the Italian Dolomites. The trail covers over 120 kilometers, passing through majestic peaks, deep valleys, and picturesque mountain villages.

 

Hikers are treated to panoramic views of the rugged mountains, crystal clear lakes, and lush green valleys along the way. The route is also steeped in history, passing through World War I battlefields and fortresses, providing a unique cultural experience. For experienced hikers looking for a challenging trek with unparalleled natural beauty, the Alta Via 1 is a must-do when visiting Italy.

The Kungsleden or "King's Trail" in Sweden is a remote hiking trail that winds through the Arctic wilderness of Lapland, providing hikers with a unique and unforgettable experience. The trail covers over 440 kilometers, passing through some of the most spectacular landscapes in Scandinavia, including snow-capped peaks, glacier-fed rivers, and serene lakes.

 

The trail is also home to a variety of wildlife, including reindeer and arctic foxes, adding to the adventure. Hikers can choose to complete the entire trail or select sections of varying difficulty, making it accessible for hikers of all levels. For those seeking an adventure in a pristine, untouched landscape, the Kungsleden is not to be missed.

The Camino del Norte, or Northern Way, is a hidden hiking trail in Spain that runs along the country's northern coast, providing hikers with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Cantabrian Sea. The trail covers over 800 kilometers, passing through charming fishing villages, historic towns, and picturesque countryside.

 

Hikers can choose to complete the entire trail or select sections of varying difficulty, making it accessible for hikers of all levels. The trail is also steeped in history and culture, with ancient cathedrals, monasteries, and castles scattered throughout. For those seeking a unique cultural and natural experience in Spain, the Camino del Norte is a must-do.

Fjordland National Park in Norway is a hidden gem for hiking enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the country's famous fjords, glaciers, and towering mountains. The park covers over 1,000 square kilometers and offers a range of hiking trails that take hikers through the park's breathtaking landscapes, from easy walks to challenging multi-day hikes.

 

The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including reindeer, arctic foxes, and seals. The park's most popular hiking trail, the Besseggen Ridge, offers a thrilling and scenic experience, taking hikers over a narrow mountain ridge with panoramic views of the park's fjords and peaks. For those seeking a hiking adventure in Norway's pristine and awe-inspiring wilderness, Fjordland National Park is a must-do.

The Samaria Gorge in Greece is one of the most spectacular hiking trails in Europe, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for hikers. The trail is located in the island of Crete and covers over 16 kilometers, passing through dramatic cliffs, natural rock formations, and a riverbed.

 

The trail is also home to rare flora and fauna, including the Cretan wild goat and the kri-kri. The highlight of the trail is the majestic Samaria Gorge itself, a narrow, winding canyon that provides a breathtaking backdrop for the hike. For those looking for a challenging and rewarding hiking experience in Greece, the Samaria Gorge is a must-do.