Top 10 European Islands for Hikers in 2025

Europe now accounts for more than 35% of the global hiking tourism market, making it the biggest region for outdoor adventures worldwide. With demand for nature-focused escapes at an all-time high, guided tour operator Island Hopping has revealed the top European islands for hiking in 2025.

The study analysed more than 20 islands, evaluating the number and quality of trails, average reviews, climate, safety, and accessibility. Costs of accommodation and online search popularity were also factored in, producing a Hiking Quality Index.

So, where should hikers head this year?

The Top 5 European Islands for Hiking in 2025

1. Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca tops the list with a perfect score of 100. It offers 500 trails with an average 4.6-star rating, most rated as moderate difficulty. With excellent safety and climate scores, plus stunning Mediterranean views, Mallorca is the ultimate hiker’s paradise.

2. Crete, Greece
Crete takes second place with 500 trails rated even higher (4.7 stars). It’s also the most affordable, with average accommodation at just $106 per night. Expect long, challenging paths averaging 15 km, perfect for more experienced hikers.

3. Sicily, Italy
In third place, Sicily combines affordability ($106 per night) with popularity — nearly 6.7 million people searched for its hiking routes online. With 500 trails and a 4.6-star rating, Sicily offers everything from volcanic treks to coastal walks.

4. Madeira, Portugal
Madeira’s dramatic landscapes earn it fourth place. With 500 trails averaging “hard” difficulty, hikers can expect routes around 7 km long, often taking three hours to complete. Its near-perfect climate score makes it ideal year-round.

5. Sardinia, Italy
Rounding out the top five, Sardinia offers 363 trails with 4.6-star reviews. From Cala Luna’s beach trails to caves and coastal cliffs, most hikes are moderate in difficulty and take under two hours — perfect for day trips.

Other Top Islands for Hiking

• Texel, Netherlands (6th): Safest island for hikers, with 74.2 on the safety index.
• Menorca, Spain (7th): Known for its excellent climate and 95 highly rated trails.
• La Gomera, Canary Islands (8th): Offers 199 routes with a climate score of 93.6.
• Ibiza, Spain (9th): Beyond the nightlife, Ibiza boasts 123 trails and great weather.
• Santorini, Greece (10th): Small but mighty, its 42 trails average 4.8 stars, the highest of all.

Hiking is booming in Europe

A spokesperson for Island Hopping commented:

“Hiking has become one of Europe’s fastest-growing travel trends, with more visitors seeking authentic, nature-focused experiences. Islands, with their diverse landscapes and unique cultural heritage, offer the perfect balance of adventure and escape.”

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