Unless you’re a family of keen outdoor enthusiasts, selling the idea of a hiking trip to your kids might be a challenge. But there are so many benefits to hiking vacations for all ages, and with so many beautiful spots in Europe to explore, it can be the ideal reset for you and your family. 

Getting out in nature, switching off from phones and laptops, and enjoying some much-needed mindful movement - a hiking vacation with your loved ones is a wonderful way to see more of a country. What’s more, as a self-guided trip, you can take detours without worrying that you’re veering from a strict schedule and go at your own pace. It makes for a much more relaxing experience that’s beneficial for your mental and physical health. 

The UK 

The UK offers some of Europe’s most accessible yet rewarding hiking experiences. The Scottish Highlands, with its dramatic landscapes that seem straight out of a fantasy novel, provides varied terrain ranging from gentle glens to challenging mountain paths that can accommodate every fitness level and ability within your family. 

If you’d prefer a coastal route, Cornwall's stunning paths deliver some of the most spectacular ocean views in the UK, along with the opportunity to discover hidden coves and charming fishing villages. For classic English countryside, head to the Lake District with its dramatic fells and tranquil waters. These spots are particularly appealing to teenagers because they offer Instagram-worthy scenery combined with manageable distances and excellent infrastructure. 

Iceland 

For something truly extraordinary, Iceland's volcanic landscapes can’t be beaten. It’s an otherworldly adventure that is guaranteed to leave lasting impressions on your whole family. While Iceland is a lesser-known spot for hiking vacations, it’s certainly a compelling choice for adventurous families who want to head somewhere a bit different. 

“Hiking" here involves short but absolutely stunning treks to some of nature's most spectacular phenomena, from the thundering waterfalls like Gullfoss and Skógafoss, to ancient glaciers and the iconic bubbling Geysir hot springs. The scenery in Iceland is absolutely the main attraction, offering teenagers and parents alike the kind of dramatic, almost alien scenery that makes for incredible social media content and unforgettable memories you can build together. 

Italy 

Italy’s Amalfi Coast is a wonderful spot for a hiking vacation, where you can experience pastel-hued fishing towns, rugged cliffs jutting out of the azure-blue Mediterranean Sea and, of course, sample Italy’s incredible cuisine along the way. The views along these routes are spectacular and really need to be experienced first-hand to be believed.  

From hillside villages and towns like Ravello and Positano to iconic attractions like Mount Vesuvius, the coastal walks here are unlike anything else. Here, you’ll find numerous shorter routes, making it a great option for families with younger kids or those less used to hiking longer distances. 

For those looking to explore more of Italy on foot, the rolling hills of Tuscany offer a completely different kind of beauty - think sun-drenched vineyards, medieval hilltop towns such as San Gimignano and Montepulciano, and scenic country trails lined with cypress trees. Meanwhile, the Cinque Terre on the Ligurian coast combines coastal drama with colorful seaside villages like Vernazza and Manarola, linked by stunning cliffside paths. 

Together, these three regions capture the essence of Italy’s landscapes, making them perfect destinations for an unforgettable hiking trip. 

France 

France is a hiker’s paradise, offering an incredible variety of landscapes and trails that appeal to every kind of adventurer. From the sun-drenched hills of Provence to the vineyard-covered paths of Burgundy and the lush valleys of the Dordogne, each region reveals a different side of the country’s natural beauty and cultural charm.  

You and your family will love strolling through medieval villages, witnessing the incredible beauty of sprawling lavender fields, or venturing along riverbanks lined with limestone cliffs, where you’ll discover why France’s walking routes are among some of the most beloved in Europe. Whether you tackle a multi-day trek or enjoy a leisurely day hike, every step offers memories you’ll be talking about for years to come. 

Portugal 

Portugal conjures images of golden beaches, delicious cuisine, and vibrant cities, but it’s also a fantastic destination for hiking vacations. From mainland trails to island adventures, Portugal offers a rich blend of natural beauty, history, and culture that’s perfect for families and groups alike. 

Around Lisbon and Sintra, hikers can explore lush forests, dramatic palaces, and clifftop paths overlooking the Atlantic, while further north, Porto and the Douro Valley offer scenic riverside routes through vineyard-covered hills. 

In the south, the Algarve combines rugged coastal trails with hidden coves and charming fishing villages, while the Camino Português and Camino Português Coastal Way let travelers experience the spiritual and cultural richness of Portugal’s ancient pilgrimage routes. Every turn here reveals another postcard-perfect view. 

Packing for Success 

Before setting off on your hiing trip, make sure you have the right kit with you for comfort and safety. Your core kit should include well-fitted hiking boots (that have been broken in thoroughly before your trip), moisture-wicking base layers, weather-appropriate outer layers, and a good-sized backpack for each person. You’ll also need essential safety items like first aid supplies, maps and emergency whistles, as well as plenty of water and energy-rich snacks, to keep yourself safe along the way.  

However, remember that packing lists will vary depending on where you’re traveling to. Your itinerary for Scotland will vary considerably to one for Italy or France, so do your research beforehand.  

Next, you want to remember your experiences, so taking a lightweight camera with you is a must. Used cameras from reputable sites like MPB can help you get a high-quality camera for less, and will help you get the very best shots of the scenery and your family along the way. You also want to pack a portable power bank for your tech, a GPS device for those more remote areas, and a lightweight headlamp for those days when you’re starting early or finishing later than normal. 

Check out our full packing list for everything you need.

Making it Memorable 

To enjoy a really successful family hiking vacation, it pays to get everyone involved in the planning process from the very beginning. This way, everyone has a chance to suggest locations, dig into researching routes and activities, and create day trips that interest them. It gives the whole family ownership over the trip and keeps you all enthusiastic and motivated to make it a memorable experience. 

The best hiking vacations incorporate activities beyond hiking to create a well-rounded experience, so don’t forget to plan rest days. Adding in additional activities outside of hiking will prevent fatigue and also expose your family to different aspects of each destination's character and culture. 

Finally, think carefully about the rhythm of your days, balancing challenging walks with easier ones, and always including time for spontaneous discoveries. Some of the most memorable moments often happen during unplanned stops at local cafes, impromptu conversations with fellow hikers, or unexpected wildlife encounters along the trail, so leave some time unplanned.  

One of the biggest benefits of self-guided travel is being able to go at your own pace and take detours, without needing to stick to a rigid tour schedule, so make the most of the freedom and explore each area to the fullest.  

Book with Macs 

Unsure where to begin and feeling overwhelmed by the planning process? Booking with Macs means you have one less thing to worry about - we handle everything from luggage transfers to providing hand-picked accommodation, and you have peace of mind that we’re on hand 24/7 to provide support. Paired with our award-winning navigational app, you have everything you need for an incredible trip.