The Balkans is often slept on. While the central European Alps are obviously stunning, the Balkans region has a more unspoiled experience, also with vast mountains and great hikes.
Walking holiday travel agents like Orbis Ways continuously experience increasing demand for these Balkans trips, and it’s for that reason why now is the time to go, while it’s still quiet and less touristy.
Slovenia: Julian Alps and Lake Bled
Slovenia is a great place to start because it’s the entry point into the Balkans – geographically, culturally, and its mountain ranges. There are some stunning lakes, like Lake Bled, along with fantastic public transport.
Of all the possible walking routes in Slovenia, the Julian Alps is perhaps the most scenic. There are crystal-clear lakes reflect towering peaks and peaceful forests everywhere. For example the waters of the Soča Valley, along with the many vineyards of the Karst region.
The classic route through Triglav National Park is the go-to option for mountain lakes and alpine villages where hospitality is warm. It’s not too remote, but not overrun.
Croatia: Castles and Coastlines
Croatia’s walking holidays are great because it’s not just about the nature, but historical intrigue. Croatia has routes that go through both inland cultural spots and stunning Adriatic coastlines all in the same trail. Of course, the medieval fortress of Dubrovnik is a stand-out here, but the hiking routes through it still end up on stunning islands and the like.
Plitvice National Park is where you’ll find world-class waterfalls and lakes. But they’re never far from olive groves and vineyards either. Istria’s scenic trails & coastal paths offer a bit of both, as you walk through Roman ruins in the countryside as well as seaside towns for some fresh seafood.
Montenegro: From Sea to Summit Adventure
Montenegro lives up to its name, “Black Mountain”, as it delivers some of Europe’s most dramatic mountain-to-sea trails. This tiny country is less explored yet packs in a lot of beauty. You can enjoy rural mountain homestays or luxury coastal accommodations.
The forests of Biogradska Gora National Park and the peaks of the Durmitor National Park are where you should first be looking to book. These have hiking adventures through some truly untouched wilderness areas, something that Europe lacks. The diversity is pretty remarkable, as walkers explore canyons, ancient rivers, and mountain meadows. As you descend, you can end up in places like the Bay of Kotor, which is a stunning medieval town built into cliffsides.
Greece: Ancient Paths
Greece is an obvious option for a vacation, but few give it the hiking respect that it clearly deserves. Being the birthplace of democracy and home to world-renowned mythology, all of these historical sites are surrounded by mountains and the Mediterranean.
The mainland has some great adventures, like the monasteries of Meteora which look impossibly perched on rock pillars. There’s also some wild beauty in the Mani Peninsula, too. Crete’s Samaria Gorge is perhaps Europe’s most spectacular canyon walk.
These walking holidays are more than just personal challenges or exercise, they’re cultural experiences and history lessons packed into some world-class nature. With Europe lacking wild areas, the Balkans offer a serene, authentic alternative.
