Europe is dotted with varied landscapes ideal for an autumn trip during which fantastic hiking can be very effective. Actually, autumn is a time of cool weather, minimal crowds, and foliage that is ravishingly beautiful and attractive, making any trail more enchanting.
This blog discusses seven European hiking trails to visit during autumn. From coastal paths to mountain routes, capture Europe's seasonal beauty and other wonderful moments. Make sure to visit these scenic European spots for a perfect hiking experience.
1. Tour du Mont Blanc, France, Italy, and Switzerland
Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the most popular trails in Europe. It crosses over three countries, and there's hardly a better way to behold the Alps. The autumns provide a variety of warm hues both in meadows and forests for an ideal background while hiking.
This challenging 105-mile loop takes approximately 10 days, offering several passes and valleys. These picturesque spots show the alpine views, which is one of the reasons why it stands out among the best travel destinations for hikers.
2. Cinque Terre, Italy
For a seaside fall season, the best path for this is on Italy's Ligurian coast via the Cinque Terre trail. This has connected five picturesque villages under the Sentiero Azzurro, also called the Blue Path. With this, it has wiggled through the rows of vineyards and olive groves.
When falls start, these towns shine like warm autumnal colour patches, making this trail more panoramic as one experiences one of the most beautiful sights of Europe. The scenes around each village vary with those of the Mediterranean; none can be outshined.
3. Douro Valley, Portugal
Douro Valley of Portugal is a world heritage by UNESCO and is such a scenic place to walk during autumn, especially over its terraces of vineyards and vineyards. All around you, vineyards and olive groves take the lovely shades of amber and red, where they harmoniously meet the dark blue scenery of the river.
You can select from many options of multiple-day treks in the valley. So, have a stroll through one of the trailheads located at Pinhão and the perfect end drinking their local port wine afterwards.
4. Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany
Scenic and a bit of a surprise when you're nestled up to the Czech border, there's the Saxon Switzerland National Park with interesting sandstone formations and heavy forest which brightens with hues during fall.
There's also the 8-day Malerweg (Painters' Trail) with views of the Elbe River and dramatic rock formations. Fall is low season but makes a perfect choice for solitude for the serious hiker.
5. Lauterbrunnen Valley, Switzerland
Lauterbrunnen Valley is an undiscovered Swiss jewel known around the world because of its imposing cliffs and its over 70 waterfalls. Autumn falls bring shades of red and orange hues across the forest colours in that valley and thus create it to resemble a setting right out of fairy tales.
The trekking routes make for sights through the Alps, gushing waterfalls, and pretty villages. This option is not very aggressive yet does deliver breathtaking sceneries while enjoying leisure in this year's best travel destination.
6. Dolomites, Italy
The Dolomites in northern Italy are a UNESCO World Heritage site and among the best European hiking destinations during autumn. Its dramatic peaks come alive in autumn with golden larches contrasting the rugged landscapes.
The Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop is popular for scenic views while the Alpe di Siusi area offers expansive alpine meadows perfect for the enjoyment of autumn colours. This trail is a heaven for photographers and nature lovers alike .
7. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site is the true wonderland that characterizes Plitvice Lakes National Park, a site where terraced lakes and waterfalls are a background for the most beautiful foliage colours in autumn.
Wooden boardwalks take hikers through this enchanting place where crystal-clear waters and fiery fall colours come together in one of the most unforgettable views. One of the best hikes of the season, Plitvice Lakes National Park has its all-in serene beauty and its distinctive lake network.
Each of these European hikes offers a different kind of experience that embodies the true spirit of fall. Whether you are an avid hiker or simply looking to enjoy the fall colours, these trails are your best destination for an autumn adventure.
