Elevated Escapes: Best Hiking Destinations for a Long Weekend
For those who crave movement, adventure, and a breathtaking change of scenery, few things rival the magic of a weekend hiking getaway. Whether it's rugged coastal paths, dramatic mountain landscapes, or lush valleys that call to you, the UK and Europe offer some of the most spectacular hikes—perfectly packaged for a long weekend escape. Here’s where to lace up your boots and go:
UK: Wild Beauty Close to Home
Lake District, England – The Pinnacle of Natural Drama
A UNESCO World Heritage site and a haven for hikers, the Lake District offers everything from gentle lakeside strolls to serious summit bagging. Take on Helvellyn via Striding Edge for a thrilling ridge walk with jaw-dropping views or opt for the Old Man of Coniston for a challenging yet rewarding day hike. Post-hike, refuel in one of the region’s chic boutique hotels or cozy country pubs.
Snowdonia, Wales – Rugged Peaks & Celtic Charm
Home to the mighty Eryri (aka Snowdon) North Wales delivers some truly exhilarating trails and cinematic landscapes. If you’re planning on traversing this peak, the Watkin Path offers a quieter, more scenic ascent with waterfalls en route, while Cwm Idwal provides a gentler, atmospheric experience.
Cairngorms, Scotland – Remote, Wild & Majestic
Scotland’s largest national park is a playground of towering peaks, hidden lochs, and ancient pine forests. The Lairig Ghru pass is a legendary multi-day route through a glacial valley, while the ascent of Ben Macdui, the UK’s second-highest peak, rewards hikers with sweeping Highland views.
Europe: Trailblazing Adventures Worth the Short Flight
Dolomites, Italy – Alpine Elegance & Jaw-Dropping Peaks
Razor-sharp limestone peaks, emerald-green meadows, and trails that feel more like art than exercise—the Dolomites are pure magic. The Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop is an unmissable, Ihighly Instagram-able, while Seceda Ridge offers some of the most surreal mountain views in the world.
Madeira, Portugal – The Island of Eternal Spring
This subtropical paradise in the Atlantic is a dream for hikers. Follow the Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo trail for a high-altitude adventure above the clouds, or explore the island’s famous levada walks, where aqueduct-side paths wind through lush landscapes and majestic waterfalls.
Julian Alps, Slovenia – Europe’s Best-Kept Secret
Slovenia’s answer to the Swiss Alps, the Julian Alps are pristine, rugged, and blissfully uncrowded. The Triglav Seven Lakes Valley is an alpine wonderland, while climbing Mount Triglav itself (Slovenia’s highest peak) is a bucket-list challenge for serious hikers.
Picos de Europa, Spain – Raw Beauty & Hidden Trails
Spain’s northern mountain range is a wild, unspoiled hiking paradise. The Ruta del Cares is a spectacular gorge walk with sheer rock walls rising on either side, while Lakes of Covadonga offers a gentler but equally mesmerising experience.
Self Guided hikes are always an option and All Trails and Kammot are great for providing all the info and reviews you’ll need to help you make safe and informed decisions about the routes you choose. For solo travellers or those who just want the support of a guide and the camaraderie of a small group, then there are a number of companies who offer these types of trips … check out the offerings from Much Better Adventures, 57Hours and Gutsy Girls