It has long been said that Europe is one of the most diverse continents in the world. Europe has always been popular with walkers, boasting mountain ranges, lush green valleys, and picturesque beaches.
Walking holidays offer a blend of physical challenges and cultural immersions that traditional holidaymakers may miss out on. If you’ve got the walking bug and want to see more of the world, why not book some walking holidays for 2025?
Trekking Soca & Bohinj Valley, Slovenia
The Soca Valley in Slovenia is known for its immense beauty, making it the most popular outdoor destination in the country. The emerald-green river allows for various water sports and snakes through the valley, making it a striking landmark. There are plenty of walks too, including The Walk of Peace which highlights the country’s history in World War 1.
Nestled in the Triglav National Park, the Bohinj Valley showcases the best that Slovenian geography has to offer. There are plenty of activities for visitors of all ages, such as the Zlatorog Fairy Trail and the Juliana Trail. Don’t forget to sample the world-famous Bohinj cheese on your travels.
Transylvania’s walking trails, Romania
When you think about the region of Transylvania, your mind may be filled with vampires and scariness, but the area has so much more to offer.
Edged by the impressive Carpathian peaks, the medieval villages are set in picturesque locations. The best area for hiking and wildlife-watching is Piatra Craiului, which is home to the rare golden eagle as well as around 270 butterfly species.
To experience a way of life almost forgotten, head to Magura Village. Many of the villagers live life using traditional farming methods – you will find more horses and carts than cars in the area!
Mental health benefits from nature-filled journeys
In recent years, events have shown everyone just how important being able to get out into nature is. Spending time outdoors has been shown to reduce the effects of stress and anxiety.
Whether you take trips abroad and enjoy walking in new places or take regular jaunts out in your local area, you may find yourself part of a new community where you can be social and interact with others. This does wonders for your self-confidence as well as your mental health by preventing loneliness.
How to prepare for your European walking holiday
Buying brand new gear for a walking holiday is a good idea as you can be confident it will work as intended. However, breaking in new hiking boots is essential before you travel – you don’t want nasty blisters ruining your feet.
Remember to check the local forecast when booking as well as before each walk. Places like Transylvania can be subject to some nasty storms, which you will want to avoid. Try to be flexible if the weather is against you. Sometimes a rest day can be as fun as a walk.
Finally, remember to take your time. Seeing new places shouldn’t be rushed, as you may leave feeling like you didn’t get the full experience. Take breaks when you need to and pause to take in the incredible views you will see.
Collaborative post
