A quiet island holiday just before the winter kicks in is something we probably all fancy. The European islands offer a diversity of iconic landscapes, walking and cycling trails in good conditions, and are guaranteed to bring you memorable experiences.
Travelling either with your family, a group of friends or just as a couple, whether you want to get up close to Europe’s tallest active volcano in Sicily, swim in Crete’s emerald waters or explore Madeira; the most southern European islands offer excellent walking and cycling conditions until the end of the year. Let us take you to Sicily, Tenerife, Crete, Corsica and La Gomera.
:: TENERIFE
Explore Tenerife's varied landscape on a winter walking holiday Tenerife may be known for one of the most colourful carnival celebrations in the world – taking place this year from 22 February-5 March – but there is much more to the largest of the seven Canary Islands. With mild weather year-round (January, the coolest month of the year, still sees average highs of 21°C!), whether you want to simply explore Tenerife’s varied landscape or combine it with the peaceful La Gomera, its quieter and more laid back neighbour, there are many travel options on this European island for anyone looking to combine a walking break with some winter sun…
Tenerife on Foot (8 days) departs daily year round
:: SICILY
Trapani is one of the highlights of the European island of Sicily ©Francesca Cappa Less than 100 miles from Tunisia, the western side of Sicily offers an eclectic mix of culture, natural landscapes and history. This is where you find Selinunte: the largest archaeological site in Europe. As the walking paths are well maintained and directions are clear, this part of Sicily is suitable to walk with children as young as 8. On this European island, you’ll be certain to get a showcase of the Mediterranean countryside in an unspoilt environment of coves, caves and impressive rock walls. Highlights in Sicily are the Zingaro and Monte Cofano Nature Reserves, the narrow streets of Trapani, an easy visit to the wild island of Levanzo and the local market in Mazara del Vallo.
Western Sicily on Foot (8 days) departs daily from March-November
:: CRETE
Crete is the biggest and most versatile of the Greek islands If all you know about Crete is the tourist resorts of Malia and Platanias, you have some catching up to do. The biggest and most versatile of the Greek islands boasts elegant Venetian ports, wild dramatic limestone peaks, spectacular gorges and fishing villages that can only by accessed by boat or on foot. Highlights of the southwest coast of Crete include the secluded Loutro village, possibilities to ascent Mount Gingilos (2080m), the magnificent plateau of Omalos and the Samaria Gorge, which at 18 km is the longest in Europe! Sounds like you? Visit the island of Crete on our
Crete: Mountains and Coast walking holiday that departs daily until 31 October
:: CORSICA
Walking from the mountains to the sea on Corsica Corsica is known as the ‘mountain in the sea’. The Corsican landscape boasts granite peaks, deeply wooded valleys, pine forest and cascading streams that lead to clear blue waters. The cycling on this European island is challenging. Trials explore both the coast and the Corsica’s interior and lead through deserts, forests, mountains and, of course, along the stunning coast. Depending on how challenging you like your cycling, the network of paths helps you to choose relaxed or more demanding routes. And with welcoming villages, the northern part of Corsica is exceptional to explore by bike!
Corsica Cycle (8 days) departs daily until 5 November
:: LA GOMERA
Crisscross the southern part of La Gomera (one of the smallest European islands) on foot The southern – and sunnier – part of La Gomera island can be crisscrossed by paths of various levels of difficulty. There are lots of things to see and do in La Gomera, which is one of the smallest European islands. For example, walk around the historical centre of capital San Sebastian; La Gomera was Columbus’ last port of call before crossing the Atlantic in 1492. View the Dracaena Draco Tree, the oldest on the island, hidden away in its rocky valley den and follow short rocky steps (dotted with small cascades along the way!) for spectacular views of the Arure waterfall. You can climb along coastal cliffs to reach the picturesque quaint bay at Playa de la Guanches or take one of the original mule tracks which cross the island, the breathtaking route from Chipude to Valle Gran Rey. Visit beautiful hamlets such as Manantiale and Benchijigua, poised below the Matterhorn-like pyramid of Roque Agando and take in the view of the impressive Garajonay summit, the highest point on La Gomera.
Southern Trails of La Gomera (8 days) departs daily year round For more information or booking details, please have a look at each trip’s page and download the trip notes or get in touch with our team of travel experts.