Island and coastal hikes | Eurohike Hiking Blog

Cliff coasts, Sea Views, and Pure Vacation Vibes

For many of us, islands and coastlines mean one thing above all: vacation. Swimming in the sea, fruity cocktails, a carefree atmosphere, southern joie de vivre, and endless hours of sunshine. When we combine these pleasures with movement in nature, we treat ourselves not only to a deeply enjoyable break but also to an active escape — far from the crowds — while exploring the remarkable landscapes Europe’s islands and coastal regions have to offer.

You might immediately think of the south: Italy, Spain, or Portugal. And you’d be right — this is exactly where true paradises for active travelers await. At the same time, a bit farther north, you’ll also find outstanding destinations for coastal hiking vacations, including places like Great Britain.

5 Reasons to Take a Coastal Hiking Vacation

Unique coastal landscapes shaped by sea and stone

Refreshing swims in picturesque coves

Fresh-from-the-sea culinary delights

A gentle sea breeze as you walk

The slower pace of island life

Sardinia’s Hidden Treasures

Did you know that Sardinia has repeatedly topped the lists of the world’s most beautiful beaches? Most recently, in 2025, the stunning Cala Goloritzé was named number one on The World’s 50 Best Beaches — and once you see this cove for yourself, it’s easy to understand why.

The best part: Cala Goloritzé lies in the heart of the Orosei Nature Park on Sardinia’s east coast, and even access by water is prohibited. Only those who arrive via the inland hiking trails can fully savor the moment, take a refreshing plunge into the sea, and enjoy the unique feeling of having the cove all to themselves.

On the Eurohike hiking tour along Sardinia’s east coast, Cala Goloritzé is just the beginning. You’ll explore numerous other coves within the Orosei Nature Park, each more breathtaking than the last. Along the way, you’ll experience the perfect blend of peaceful serenity, dramatic coastal scenery, and fragrant wildflowers — especially stunning in spring. And to complete the journey, Sardinia’s exquisite Italian cuisine awaits, from delicate fish and pasta dishes to, of course, irresistible pizza.

Hiker on the Cala Gonone Cartoe coastal path

Sardinia's East Coast

8 Days

21 ratings

Tuscan Coast: Hiking, History, and the Sea

We don’t want to keep this hidden gem of Italy from you. Step back in time as you follow in the footsteps of the Etruscans on a journey from Pisa to Elba. The Tuscan coast is rich in cultural treasures and winds through remote, serene landscapes, from the rolling hills near Livorno to the elevated trails around Piombino.

After visiting Pisa’s iconic landmark, your adventure continues to the summit of the volcanic Poggio Pelato. From Castiglioncello, stroll along the beach through shaded pine forests to Castagneto. On the “Sentiero dei Cavalleggeri,” hike to the bay of Calamoresca before reaching the port of Piombino. From there, Elba is just a short ferry ride away. At Monte Croce, take in sweeping views of the surrounding islands and the sparkling Mediterranean — and chances are, you’ll wish you could stay even longer.

Elba, together with six neighboring islands, forms the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, Europe’s largest marine protected area. Spanning 18,000 hectares of land and 60,000 hectares of sea, it preserves natural habitats both above and below water. You can already imagine the incredibly diverse underwater world awaiting snorkelers and amateur marine biologists alike.

Picturesque coastal village of Porto Azzuro

Tuscan Coast

8 Days

6 ratings

Hiker sitting on a bench with a hilly landscape in the background

Helene Wanders the Tuscan Coast: From Pisa to Elba

In her travel story, Helene shares her personal impressions and highlights from her journey along the Tuscan coast:

"For me, one of the greatest charms of coastal hiking is the connection between land and sea, and the incredible variety of landscapes it creates. This tour offers a full spectrum: wide sandy beaches, fragrant pine forests, breathtaking coastal views, and so much more. Whether in spring, summer, or fall, it promises a perfectly balanced escape — relaxing, yet full of adventure!"

To travel story

Hiking break on a rocky outcrop with a view of a village below and the coast

White plate with tagliatelle pasta topped with lobster claw and tail, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs. Wine glasses and dishes visible in background.

Cornwall’s Coastal Charm

Cornwall’s dramatic coastline along the South West Coast Path is nothing short of breathtaking. Setting out from the coastal town of St. Ives on two varied loop hikes, you’ll follow narrow trails and rugged headlands that jut spectacularly into the Atlantic. With a bit of luck, you may also encounter some of the coast’s wildlife, from playful seals to soaring seabirds.

In the evenings, soak up the quintessential British experience with a visit to a local pub or a traditional restaurant serving the freshest fish straight from the Atlantic. One of the highlights of the journey is the hike to Land’s End, the westernmost point of Great Britain. Here, cliffs and flowering meadows stretch before you, and beyond this point, the landscape transforms into coves with white sandy beaches reminiscent of the Caribbean.

In the days that follow, the fragrant maquis of the Keymel Nature Reserve accompanies you along the trails. Finally, in the picturesque coastal town of Penzance, with views over Mount’s Bay and St. Michael’s Mount, your coastal adventure comes to a relaxed and unforgettable close.

Cornwall's coastal beauty

8 Days

2 ratings

Atlantic Dreams and Coastal Trails in the Algarve

Portugal’s southern coast, better known as the Algarve, is one of Europe’s sunniest regions, boasting 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. It offers ideal hiking conditions year-round: in summer, the Atlantic breeze tempers the heat, while in winter, active travelers can enjoy the soothing warmth of the sun even as frost and cold dominate further north.

But there’s so much more to discover: fascinating rock formations, cliffs, and coastal landscapes meet the deep-blue Atlantic here. Authentic fishing villages invite you to experience traditional life on land. All of this awaits exploration on a journey across the Algarve from west to east.

Your adventure begins in Lagos, a lively coastal town with a charming historic center. Breathtaking headlands and rugged plateaus shape the route to Sagres. Admittedly, the spectacular Ponta da Piedade just outside Lagos may not be entirely yours to enjoy in solitude, but the erosion-sculpted rocks in shades of red and yellow create a striking scene against the Atlantic that is simply unforgettable.

Along the coast, quiet trails lead first to Albufeira and then onward to Faro, the capital of the Algarve. What’s that clattering so busily? Look up in Faro’s harbor, and you’ll see storks building enormous nests on the streetlights.

Speaking of wildlife, the Ria Formosa Natural Park — a lagoon stretching from Faro to Tavira — is a paradise for countless bird species. Witness this incredible diversity firsthand before enjoying a leisurely boat ride into the historic town of Tavira, often referred to as the “Venice of the Algarve.”

Hiker relaxes and enjoys the expansive sea view

Algarve Coastal Walk

8 Days

21 ratings

Hiker with blue backpack overlooking Praia da Dona Ana beach in Algarve, with golden cliffs, rock formations, and turquoise water.

In spring 2023, Claudia from the sales team set off with a friend for the Algarve — and she shares her enthusiastic impressions:

"The coastal and cliff trail of the Fishermen’s Trail takes us through numerous small, secluded coves, along rocky and sandy cliff paths, and across wide, remote plateaus. Every climb up the cliffs and highlands is rewarded with stunning views — one photo opportunity follows another!"

To Claudia's travel story

Two smiling female hikers with backpacks crouching on a coastal trail in the Algarve, with blue ocean and sky in the background.

Discover Majorca’s West Coast

The Balearic island of Majorca offers everything a hiking enthusiast could wish for: quiet inland trails like those along the long-distance trail GR221, idyllic coastal paths in the east or west, turquoise waters in hidden coves perfect for a refreshing swim, charming authentic fincas, and the impressive Serra de Tramuntana.

For fans of our single-base hiking tours, the Majorca West Coast with Charm Tour is ideal. You’ll stay in a beautiful finca in the coastal town of Port de Sóller and set out on varied loop hikes through the Valley of the Oranges. In the evenings, enjoy a dip in the pool, relaxing moments under the palms, and traditional Majorcan cuisine.

If you prefer hiking from finca to finca, discovering along the way the stunning Cuber Reservoir, the Orient Valley, and the artists’ village of Deià, our Majorca Finca Hiking Tour is the perfect choice.

New in 2026: Majorca West Coast with Charm – 5-Day Version

Want to combine hiking with a beach or city break on the Balearic island while saving days from your vacation time? The compact 5-day version is tailor-made for you!