Europe has no shortage of beautiful places for hiking, but islands offer something extra special—sea views, fresh air, forests, and mountains all in one place. Recently, a travel company called Island Hopping studied Europe’s islands to find the best island for hiking.
The company looked at many factors, including:
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Number of hiking trails
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Trail safety and length
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Weather conditions
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Ease of access
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Hotel prices
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Online searches for hiking trails
Each island was given a Hiking Quality Index score, and the results were clear.
Mallorca, Spain Takes the Top Spot
Mallorca, Spain, was named the best island for hiking in Europe. It has around 500 hiking trails, making it a paradise for nature lovers. The island is part of Spain’s Balearic Islands and is home to nearly one million people. Its capital city, Palma, has an international airport with flights from many major European cities.
Hiking has become very popular in Europe, as travelers now prefer nature-based and peaceful experiences. Mallorca stands out because it offers mountains, forests, beaches, and rich culture all in one destination.
Nature Parks and Scenic Trails
Mallorca has several beautiful natural areas. One highlight is Cabrera National Park, located on a small island just off Mallorca’s coast and reachable by boat. Visitors can explore caves, old towers, and a lighthouse.
Other popular spots include:
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S’Albufera Natural Park, known for wetlands and flamingos
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Mondragó Natural Park, with pine forests, olive trees, and beaches
Mallorca scored a perfect 100 on the Hiking Quality Index and has an average trail rating of 4.6 stars. However, hotel prices are higher, with an average cost of $212 per night.
Other Top Hiking Islands in Europe
The survey also revealed other great islands for hiking:
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Crete, Greece – Second place with 500 trails and cheaper hotels
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Sicily, Italy – Third place
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Madeira, Portugal – Fourth place
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Sardinia, Italy – Fifth place with 363 trails
At the bottom of the list was Santorini, Greece, which has fewer trails and high hotel prices.
Final Word
If hiking with stunning ocean views is on your travel list, Mallorca is the place to be. With hundreds of trails, diverse landscapes, and beautiful nature, it’s Europe’s top island for hiking lovers.