Breathtaking coastal hikes in Europe you can’t miss

Last Updated on 28 July 2025

Europe is home to some of the world’s most spectacular coastal hiking trails that combine nature, culture with a high dose of adventure. Most of the trails will take you through rugged cliffs, ancient fishing towns, and some of the best views of the sea in the whole world. From a hike in La Palma, Spain, or the Camino Portuguese Coastal Way to trails in Malta, Europe sure has a route for every type of traveler.

But before you leave to explore these trails, there are some key aspects to consider, and planning as well as organizing the whole trip is a must. I know that taking care of all the logistics involved in a walking holiday can be overwhelming, that’s why the best option for those coastal trips is going with a specialized agency like Orbis Ways. 

The company’s main goal is to offer amazing walking holidays, and with excellent reviews, you can say that’s the case. They offer complete packages that include accommodation, detailed maps, and support throughout the route, as well as luggage transfers. Their packages offer self-guided routes, catering to different fitness and experience levels. Other hikers who have used their services highlight the personalized attention and the quality of the accommodations.

Despite being able to get the trip fully sorted out by the agency, you should bring proper footwear, plenty of water, and sunscreen.

Now, here are the best coastal hikes in Europe you can’t miss:

La Palma, Spain

Picking a walking holiday in Spain with a coastal view is hard, since it’s home to the Camino de Santiago and its network of routes, but La Palma, in the Canary Islands, is a destination that hiking enthusiasts can easily fall in love with. It’s known as The Beautiful Island, and its volcanic terrain, as well as laurel forests, create a unique contrast with the intense blue of the Atlantic. I know that the Volcano Route is not technically a coastal route, but it’s in fact one of the most impressive hikes on the island. 

The trail takes you through ancient lava flows and viewpoints with panoramic ocean views. On the other hand, if you prefer something more relaxing, the GR 130 trail runs along the coast and passes through picturesque villages and black sand beaches. La Palma is also a Biosphere Reserve, and that guarantees a well-preserved natural environment.

Portuguese Coastal Way

No hiking list in Europe is complete if it doesn’t have a Camino route; it’s just the most popular long-distance trail on the continent. In this case, there’s no better option than the Portuguese Coastal Way, a route packed with history, sea-views, and on top of that is a less crowded alternative to the traditional Camino Portuguese. 

This popular walking holiday in Portugal begins in Porto, a charming city, and follows the Atlantic coast to the north. Along the way, you’ll be able to check fishing villages like Vila do Conde and Viana do Castelo, where you can try some fresh seafood. Not only that, but the golden beaches of Esposende and the mouth of the Minho River are just some of the landscapes that will make every step worthwhile. This route is perfect for those who are looking to combine hiking with culture and gastronomy.

Gozo, Malta

Malta is not behind when it comes to stunning coastal landscapes; in fact, many people have labeled it as the most beautiful island in Europe. But, when it comes to walking holidays in Malta, there’s no better option than the island of Gozo, which is packed with more than 10 kilometers of coastline to hike. The trails lead you through limestone cliffs, sea caves, and crystal-clear waters with panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Although the famous Azure Window collapsed in 2017, the area is still stunning. Gozo is a perfect destination for those looking for hiking with a touch of history and legend.

Conclusion

As you can see, Europe offers an incredible variety of coastal trails that combine nature, culture, and physical challenge. La Palma in Spain, the Portuguese Way in Portugal, and the island of Gozo in Malta are just a small examples of the number of iconic trails you can find in this stunning continent, where each route has something unique to offer.