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The new dream destinations for explorers in 2026

Nature, conscious travel and new destinations
Three hikers on the Vrsic Pass with an imposing mountain backdrop

The coming season promises exciting developments for hiking enthusiasts. The focus is on sustainable nature experiences, new dream destinations and the desire to slow down. More and more hikers are looking for authentic encounters, mindful breaks and, at the same time, routes that are physically challenging.

Europe offers the perfect stage for this: impressive landscapes, living traditions and warm hospitality. Whether it's the sunny flower island of Madeira, the Julian Alps in Slovenia, the Merano High Mountain Trail or the classic Alpine crossing – the variety is limitless.

Three hikers on the Vrsic Pass with an imposing mountain backdrop

Slovenia – Discover Europe's green outdoor paradise

In recent years, Slovenia has become a real trend destination for hikers. The small country between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea delights visitors with its unspoilt nature, crystal-clear rivers and impressive mountain scenery. Anyone looking for unspoilt landscapes and authentic experiences will find what they are looking for here.

Why Slovenia?

  • Breathtaking nature: Julian Alps, Triglav National Park, Soča River
  • Sustainable tourism and warm hospitality
  • Diverse cuisine with regional specialities

 

Slovenia is the perfect choice for anyone seeking nature, tranquillity and active recreation, as well as wanting to discover a country that is still considered an insider tip.

Hiking trail in Kranjska Gora

Slovenia with so much diversity

Julian Alps & Wild Soča Valley
Our hiking tour takes you right into the spectacular mountain world of the Julian Alps. Majestic peaks, deep blue mountain lakes and the emerald green waters of the Soča make this region a natural gem. On each stage, you will experience the diversity of Slovenia: from alpine high-altitude trails to idyllic valleys where time seems to stand still.

Alpe-Adria Trail – A boundless hiking experience
Another highlight is the Alpe-Adria Trail, which connects the most beautiful landscapes of Austria, Slovenia and Italy. Part of the route runs through Slovenia and showcases the full diversity of the country: from the Karawanken mountains to the rolling hills in the south. Here, Alpine beauty meets Mediterranean flair.

Two hikers in the Soca Valley with a view of the turquoise Soca

Our hiking tours in Slovenia

Portugal – the perfect hiking destination

Portugal has been one of Europe's most popular travel destinations for years, and with good reason. In addition to the well-known coastal regions, more and more hiking enthusiasts are discovering the green island of Madeira. It is considered a true natural paradise in the middle of the Atlantic and is ideal for those who appreciate spectacular landscapes and a mild climate all year round.

  • Pleasant temperatures all year round – perfect for winter hikes
  • Unique nature: laurel forests, volcanic landscapes and coastal views
  • Authentic culture and regional specialities
View of Seixal Bay

Madeira – the flower island for active connoisseurs

Our hiking tour on Madeira takes you through a world full of contrasts: dramatic cliffs, lush laurel forests and the famous levadas – centuries-old irrigation channels that now offer fantastic hiking trails. The island is a paradise for nature lovers and offers incredible diversity in a small area.

In addition to its spectacular landscapes, Madeira boasts a mild climate all year round, making the island an ideal destination for winter hiking. The variety of routes ranges from leisurely levadas through green valleys to challenging summit tours on the island's highest mountains. Along the way, you can expect breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, exotic flora and charming villages where you can experience the Portuguese way of life. Madeira is not only a hiker's paradise, but also a place to indulge – whether with regional specialities or a glass of Madeira wine.

Wanderer nahe Porto da Cruz

Algarve & Alentejo

More Portugal: However, the country has much more to offer than the well-known cities and beaches of Madeira. For hikers, the Alentejo and Algarve regions are real insider tips, delighting visitors with their varied landscapes and authentic flair. Hiking between coast and culture.

Algarve – coastal walks with wow factor
The Algarve is famous for its spectacular cliffs and golden beaches. Along coastal paths such as the Fishermen's Trail, you will be accompanied by breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, hidden coves and charming fishing villages. A paradise for anyone who loves the sea and nature.

Alentejo – tranquillity and space
Gentle hills, cork oak forests and historic villages characterise the Alentejo region. Here you can hike through a region known for its authenticity and serenity. Away from the tourist trails, you can experience Portuguese culture in its purest form.

 

Colourful fishing boats while hiking along the Alentejo coast

Our hiking tours in Portugal

Merano High Mountain Trail – South Tyrol's classic panoramic trail

The Merano High Mountain Trail is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the Alps and is a real highlight for anyone who wants to combine nature, culture and enjoyment. The high mountain trail leads around the Texel Group in the nature park for around 100 kilometres, offering spectacular views of the South Tyrolean mountains and the Merano region.

What makes the Merano High Mountain Trail so special:

  • Diversity of landscapes: From alpine meadows and dense forests to sunny vineyards and orchards.
  • Panoramic views: Constantly accompanied by impressive views of the peaks of the Ortler Group and the Dolomites.
  • Cultural encounters: Traditional mountain farms, rustic alpine huts and South Tyrolean hospitality await you along the way.

 

Two variants

Merano High Mountain Trail – Around the Texel Group
This classic route circles the Texel Group Nature Park and offers spectacular panoramic views of the South Tyrolean mountains over a distance of around 100 kilometres. The stages combine alpine landscapes, rustic alpine huts and cultural highlights. Ideal for hikers who want to experience the diversity of South Tyrol on a multi-day tour.

Merano High Mountain Trail South Side – Sunny pleasure hike
The southern side of the Merano High Mountain Trail is the perfect choice for those who appreciate Mediterranean flair and a milder climate. Here you can hike through vineyards, orchards and charming mountain villages, accompanied by fantastic views of the Merano region. This variant is slightly less demanding and offers many opportunities for culinary breaks.

Both tours combine nature, culture and enjoyment: choose your favourite option and experience South Tyrol at its most beautiful!

Hiker on the Merano High Mountain Trail

Crossing the Alps on foot: The ultimate hiking adventure

Crossing the Alps – for many hikers, this is the epitome of freedom and experiencing nature. These tours are among the great classics and are at the top of the wish list for outdoor enthusiasts. No wonder: those who cross the Alps step by step experience a unique variety of landscapes, cultures and culinary delights.

Why crossing the Alps is so fascinating:

  • Majestic mountains: From green valleys to alpine heights to Mediterranean flair at your destination.
  • Varied stages: Every day brings new impressions – rugged peaks, sparkling mountain lakes and idyllic alpine pastures.
  • Boundless experiences: You will hike through several countries and experience the diversity of Europe first-hand.

 

Among the most popular routes are the classic Alpine crossing from Garmisch to Merano and the Alpe-Adria Trail, which leads from the Alps to the sea. Thanks to perfect signage, comfortable accommodation and luggage transfer, this adventure is now feasible for many hikers – without compromising on enjoyment.

Best time to visit: June to September, when the Alps are in full bloom and the huts are open.

The Holzgau Suspension Bridge on the Lech Trail

Crossing the Alps: Our most popular hiking tours

Mindful Travel – focus on sustainability

Hiking is an environmentally friendly way to travel, but as its popularity grows, so do the challenges.

Guests are increasingly looking for the most sustainable way to travel, such as taking the train instead of flying, especially within Europe. Regional accommodation that offers sustainable concepts is also in high demand.

That is why we have launched our new product line, ‘Conscious Travel’. Hiking trips that fall into this category are characterised by accommodation with a view and high product standards. But what does that mean in detail?

When selecting hotels, our product managers pay attention to the following criteria:

  • These are family-run businesses.
  • Regional food products are processed.
  • The company pays attention to reducing plastic waste and rubbish.
  • The company focuses on sustainability.

 

On the product side, we ensure good accessibility by public transport, no passenger transfers between stage locations, climate-friendly additional services and routes away from the crowds.

Chamois Radstaedter Tauern
Hikers on the Schafberg

Strong women, strong tours

More and more women are discovering hiking alone as a special form of time out. It's not just about exercise, but also about mindfulness, slowing down and consciously experiencing nature. Leaving everyday life behind step by step, finding your own rhythm and enjoying the silence – that's what makes solo hiking so valuable. Being out and about on your own means giving yourself space, recharging your batteries and carefully exploring your own limits.

Why hike alone?Finding time for yourself and inner peace. Freedom to set your own pace and route. An intense experience of nature without distractions.

Travelling together – hiking with friendsIn addition to solo time out, hiking trips with friends are a wonderful way to create shared memories. Whether it's a multi-day tour in the Alps or a relaxed coastal trail, travelling together means sharing experiences, laughter and mutual motivation. After each stage, you can enjoy regional specialities, cosy accommodation and the feeling of having experienced something special together.

You now receive special conditions when you book a trip.