Hiking by the water | Eurohike HikingBlog

Where Water Leads the Way

Water isn’t just something you see, it’s something you feel with every sense. The sound of gentle ripples or crashing waves brings an immediate sense of calm, like the world slowing down for a moment. The scent, salty by the sea, fresh in quiet river valleys, invites you to pause and breathe more deeply. And then there’s that unforgettable feeling: the chill of cool water on your skin, toes sinking in at the shore, or the pure exhilaration of leaping off a dock into the refreshing blue.

Out on the trail, this kind of refreshment feels especially welcome, especially during the hot summer months from June through August, and in our southern hiking destinations. What could be more refreshing than hiking along Majorca’s west coast, pausing to dive into the sparkling sea? Or uncovering one crystal-clear lake after another on the sun-soaked Ten Lakes Trekking Tour in the Salzkammergut?

Hiker looks out over the turquoise-blue bay of Coll de Baix

Water has a calming effect on many of us. Studies show that simply gazing at water can lower the stress hormone cortisol and reduce both heart rate and blood pressure. It inspires a sense of openness and freedom, fostering calm, serenity, and mindfulness — inviting you to fully savor the moment. A natural mood booster that adds a special richness to any hiking journey. When asked about her favorite color, a colleague recently said, “The silvery shimmer of moonlight dancing on the sea at night.” A beautiful image, wouldn’t you agree?

Hiker in front of the panoramic view of Port de Soller

Majorca‘s West Coast with Charm

7 Days

6 ratings

Ten Lakes Trekking Tour

10 Days

28 ratings

Lechweg-Path with Charm

8 Days

3 ratings

Roaring & Mighty

Exploring Spectacular Waterfalls

Krimml Waterfalls

The Krimml Waterfalls stand as Austria’s iconic cascade, where your eight-day hiking journey through Hohe Tauern National Park begins in Krimml and unfolds amid breathtaking glacier panoramas, panoramic high-altitude trails, and a wealth of natural treasures.

Lechfall

Equally remarkable is the Lechweg trail. Stretching approximately 125 kilometers (78 miles) from the turquoise waters of Formarinsee to the thunderous Lechfall, this diverse route begins in Vorarlberg and leads you all the way to Füssen in Bavaria, where the majestic royal castles of Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein await.

Pišnica Falls

The turquoise-blue Soča River meanders through Slovenia's fascinating mountain world past rugged cliffs, narrow gorges, expansive meadows and green mountain pastures. An impressive hiking route takes you over the imposing Vršič Pass, to the spectacular Pišnica Falls and the idyllic Lake Bohinj.

Waterfall in the municipality of Kranjska Gora in Slovenia

The Healing Power of Water

Waterfalls captivate not only with their power but also with their unique atmosphere. At taller falls, the impact of the water creates a fine mist that gives this natural wonder its signature appearance. The high humidity often creates a microclimate of its own — breathe deeply and feel the soothing effect on your respiratory system. The force of the cascading water is especially present in the roar and rush that follow the splash. In short: a breathtaking natural spectacle that awakens all your senses and brings deep relaxation!

A striking example of this healing power is the Krimml Waterfalls in the Hohe Tauern. Within the fine mist, tiny negatively charged particles form. These nano-aerosols penetrate deep into the lungs, where they exert cleansing and even anti-inflammatory effects. Those who regularly spend time in this spray are said to experience noticeable improvements, especially allergy and asthma sufferers, who benefit from the unique microclimate’s positive effects on the immune system.

Our Favorite Water Destinations

Wonderful hiking trails along the water can often be found right on your doorstep. In Austria, there are countless great options for hiking along rivers — from the mighty Danube and the peaceful Drava to the crystal-clear lakes of the Salzkammergut on the Berge-Seen Trail. Germany’s hiking regions also offer wonderful trails along the water: enchanting river valleys like those along the Moselsteig and Rheinsteig, sparkling alpine lakes in southern Germany, and the idyllic shores of the Baltic Sea.

For those looking to venture a bit further, the Gotaleden trail in Sweden showcases spectacular views of the archipelago islands, while the stunning coastlines of Majorca and Madeira are especially recommended in spring and autumn. Italy promises boundless hiking pleasure—on panoramic trails, you can circle Italy’s largest lake, the picturesque Lake Garda.

In beautiful South Tyrol, countless opportunities await to experience the power of water. From Lake Resia to Lake Caldaro, hike along ancient Roman paths winding through magnificent vineyards, orchards, and charming South Tyrolean villages.

Let the Power of Water Awaken Your Senses