Hikers descending to a beach on Albania's Riviera
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25 Trails To Look Forward To In 2025 At UTracks, we're looking at 2025 with bright eyes and bushy tails.
From beloved routes that have stood the test of time, such as the Tour du Mont Blanc and Camino de Santiago; to Europe's undiscovered back roads, including Albania, Northern Holland and Madeira; these are the walking & cycling tours that are getting us excited in 2025.
In no particular order, discover our picks for the 25 most interesting walking and cycling holidays in Europe below. Or, with over 500 active travel trips,
browse our complete range and explore Europe your way.
Discover the hidden treasures of the Albanian Riviera, where turquoise seas meet the herb-scented slopes of the towering Ceraunian Peaks. Explore a serene paradise of unspoiled trails, tranquil shores, and crystal-clear coves. Wander through charming stone villages, lush citrus groves, and ancient olive trees, savoring the warmth of Albanian hospitality.
Each day offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea, peaceful solitude on pristine beaches, and the vibrant flavors of Albania’s culinary traditions. With every detail arranged, all that’s left is to embrace the freedom to explore this captivating landscape at your own pace.
Embark on a spectacular journey through the volcanic Aeolian Islands aboard a charming traditional caique. This active adventure combines discovery and awe as you hike Stromboli to witness its fiery eruptions at dusk, cycle across Lipari to secret swimming spots and panoramic picnic views, and climb Vulcano’s crater rim for breathtaking vistas or swim among underwater fumaroles.
Explore Panarea’s dramatic rocky ridges and savor the iconic Sicilian granita on Salina. Guided by passionate experts, each island reveals its history and natural wonders, while life on the comfortable boat offers moments of camaraderie and relaxation as you sail from one enchanting destination to the next.
Embark on a captivating cycling journey in Switzerland, from the alpine elegance of St. Moritz to the historic charm of Innsbruck, tracing the scenic Inn River through breathtaking landscapes. Stay in picturesque towns like Zernez, the gateway to the Swiss National Park, and Scuol, a spa town famed for its mineral springs and traditional Engadine architecture.
As you cross into Austria, enjoy stunning alpine views, quaint villages, and the rich flavors of the region. Perfect for leisure cyclists, this adventure blends relaxation, culture, and exploration, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Alps.
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Is there a more 'on trend' Camino trail than the Camino Norte? We don't think so. Walk the historic Camino del Norte, one of the original routes to Santiago de Compostela, tracing the dramatic Bay of Biscay coastline and mountain paths. UTracks has a comprehensive range of over 10 Camino Norte walking and cycling tours.
Itineraries start in San Sebastian, and winds through picturesque fishing villages, fertile valleys, and vibrant cities like Bilbao, home to the iconic Guggenheim Museum. Explore Asturias’ rugged beauty and quieter trails, savoring local character and culture in charming small hotels. With a mix of ancient and modern architecture and breathtaking landscapes, this challenging yet rewarding path offers a serene alternative to the popular Camino Frances route.
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While you can experience Scotland's Great Glen Way on a hotel-based trip, if you can join a barge tour, we recommend this unique accommodation option! There are a variety of itineraries that cater for just cycling, just walking, or a blend of activities.
Embark on Scotland's Great Glen Way, a 75-mile journey from Fort William to Inverness, blending hiking, cycling, and canoeing through the breathtaking Highlands. Stay aboard a comfortable barge, choosing your pace and activities as you explore mystical Loch Ness, majestic Ben Nevis, and picturesque landscapes. Guided by an expert escort, each day unveils highlights and hidden gems, while evenings bring camaraderie with fellow travelers, sharing stories and savoring the accomplishment of crossing Scotland's scenic heart.
For those who think they've seen it all, put Malta on your travel to do list. This island nation has fortresses, rugged coastal landscapes and a unique cuisine thanks to its long history of European, African and Middle Eastern influences. Over 8 days, uncover Malta’s rich history, with mysterious prehistoric sites, ancient cave chapels, and the grand palaces of the Knights.
The Via Ferrata hike in the Dolomites gets a mention specifically because Ramzi, a UTracks Traveller, sent us in an awesome collection of photos from his trip. This challenging hike isn't for everyone but it certainly makes for some epic memories!
Go beyond Amsterdam and explore the Dutch provinces of North Holland and Friesland on a gentle bike and barge holiday, immersing yourself in the heart of Dutch culture. Cycle through reclaimed coastal landscapes, serene coastal paths, and the bicycle-friendly island of Texel. Visit highlights like the open-air museum at Zaanse Schans, Alkmaar’s historic center, and charming harbor towns like Medemblik and Volendam. Cross Lake IJsselmeer to Friesland and experience Amsterdam’s iconic canals. With scenic beauty, rich history, and a comfortable barge as your base, this journey offers the ultimate Dutch holiday.
Set in the North Atlantic off Portugal’s coast, Madeira Island is a year-round paradise of rugged beauty, rich history, and outdoor trails. Its unique network of levadas, ancient irrigation channels stretching over 2,000 km, guides peaceful walks through pastoral countryside and terraced hillsides. For the more adventurous, trails lead to volcanic peaks with breathtaking views.
From self-guided to guided walking tours, or a new cycle tour, discover coastal paths, panoramic vistas, the vibrant capital of Funchal, and the stunning São Lourenço peninsula, showcasing the best of Madeira’s charm and dramatic landscapes.
Discover the walking highlights of Northern Spain on a guided journey through the Atlantic Coast, Bilbao, and the breathtaking Picos de Europa. Walk the renowned Ruta del Cares, carved into dramatic limestone cliffs, and explore the lush landscapes of meadows, woodlands, and gorges. Transition to the green coastline along the Camino del Norte, passing hidden coves and pristine beaches while immersing yourself in the Camino's spirit.
Savor Northern Spain’s culinary treasures, from pintxos in Bilbao to a seafood feast by the coast, and unwind in charming accommodations, including a restored monastery in Llanes. This is a journey of natural beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable flavors.
Crete, a land of breathtaking beauty and rich history, offers an endless source of vivid impressions. From the lively waterfront and bustling market of Chania to the soaring White Mountains and dramatic gorges like Samaria and Imbros, this largest of the Greek islands is a paradise for nature lovers.
Home to more plant species than the entire British Isles and a haven for migratory birds, Crete’s natural diversity is matched by its rich cultural heritage, with ruins from Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, and Turkish eras. Meet the proud, hospitable locals, steeped in tradition and close to nature, as you uncover the cultural and natural treasures of this remarkable island.
Originating in the Vosges Mountains in the French region of Alsace, the fabled Moselle River flows north along the Luxembourg border and into Germany for 545km in total before it meets the Rhine River at the cultural city of Koblenz. The picturesque valley formed by the river is home to a rich tradition of wine making, Germany's oldest town, many impressive castles and a strong Roman and medieval heritage.
Explore the Moselle River on a comfortable barge or on a hotel-based tour. These cycle journeys along the Moselle offer an ideal balance of activity, history, culture and relaxation.
Embark on an 82-mile walking journey through the heart of Snowdonia National Park in North Wales, where industrial heritage meets breath-taking landscapes. The Snowdonia Slate Trail is a captivating loop inaugurated in 2017. It weaves through the Welsh region’s iconic mountain passes, connecting the vibrant towns shaped by a slate mining legacy which affected the surrounding landscape.
Whether you’re seeking tranquility in the wilderness or a connection to the land’s fascinating history, the Snowdonia Slate Trail promises an unforgettable hiking experience.
Browse our collection of 'rambler walking holidays and take pleasure in being able to 'slow down and smell the roses'! Find rambler itineraries on popular routes, including the Camino de Santiago, Mont Blanc, Via Francigena and Coast to Coast. These offer shorter daily distances, meaning they're more achievable and more accessible to all.
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With over 200 top reviews, this itinerary is the most popular way to experience the famous Tour du Mont Blanc.
Get well off the beaten track in northern Germany and discover the Baltic Sea Cycle Route, from Lübeck to Stralsund. This is where the natural beauty of northern Germany unfolds with every pedal stroke. Explore the UNESCO-listed city of Stralsund with its rich medieval architecture, and enjoy the tranquil seaside atmosphere along the way. Perfect for both seasoned cyclists and leisure riders, this route offers a blend of cultural landmarks, serene landscapes, and a taste of the Baltic’s maritime heritage, making it an unforgettable cycling holiday.
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In 2025, the 6 million pound upgrade to the Coast to Coast trail will be complete and so will its transition to one of the UK's National Trails. One of the best ways to become immersed in England.
Explore beyond Santiago de Compostela and continue to where you literally can't walk any further: the Atlantic Ocean at Finisterre. This excellent Camino trail is a great extension to your Camino journey and all finisher's receive a certificate on completion.
The Peaks of the Balkans Trail offers an unforgettable hiking experience across Kosovo, Albania and Montenegro. Following ancient routes through the rugged Accursed Mountains, this trail links remote villages and unveils a wild, lesser-known corner of Europe.
The French and Italian Riviera are idyllic and stunning destinations, and they are perfect to explore by bike. From Nice, follow the coast, admiring the clear Mediterranean waters and stopping in small towns and fishing villages. With time to visit an archaeological museum, an olive oil museum and visit the artists and ceramists of Albisola, this trip has so much to offer. Finishing in the port city of Genoa, birthplace of Christopher Columbus. History, glamour, culture and stunning coastal views - you'll get to experience and enjoy it all on this week long self guided cycle.
The Jubilee Year, also known as the Holy Year, is a significant Catholic event celebrated every 25 years. It is a time of spiritual renewal, forgiveness, and celebration. In 2025 the Jubilee Year is in Rome and Vatican City, starting on Christmas Eve 2024 and lasting until the Epiphany festival in January 2026.
Follow the Danube River and the vibrant cultures along its banks by both bike and barge. It's a very popular way to experience the Danube.
"The bike and barge tour is a great way to explore and experience cities, villages, and the natural beauty along the Danube River. We loved the simplicity of having a local guide brief us on sites to see and not having to navigate unfamiliar roads. The food and service aboard the boat was excellent and the rooms were clean and comfortable. We highly recommend the Danube bike and barge tour!"
Stretching along the southwestern part of Turkey, the Lycian Coast is a treasure trove of scenic landscapes, ancient ruins, and charming coastal villages. Lace up your hiking boots and set off on a journey that will take you through a tapestry of turquoise waters, rugged mountains, and lush green valleys.
The Camino Portuguese route is beautiful and packed with history, taking you through World Heritage-listed towns, coastal boardwalks, vibrant cities, and rural regions that you may otherwise never experience on a tour of Portugal.
UTracks provided the perfect way for my husband and I to walk a lovely part of the Portuguese Camino from Porto to Tui just for a week.
The Camino isn’t a luxury vacation, it has a more humble history, and in the past we walked independently, staying in albergues in Spain, with no set daily itinerary on our way to Santiago de Compostela. This time we wanted to walk just a portion of the Portuguese road, with support to do the groundwork and make our reservations for us.
The inns and homes chosen to stay in all had charm and convenience and were, without exception, clean and run by friendly people. The route through Northern Portugal is beautiful, and the chosen itinerary alternated between challenging and easy days in order to let us enjoy the charming towns along the way.
Well done, and thanks for the good memories!
What trail has caught your eye for 2025? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.