7 Must Visit Adventure Destinations In Europe

With the ongoing global pandemic many indoor attractions remain closed or only open at limited times. Social distancing is also encouraged to try and prevent any potential Coronavirus transmission. Therefore, places where you can be in the great outdoors and away from others will become increasingly popular.

We have created a list of European destinations where you can go exploring far away from the crowds, surrounded by nothing but beautiful nature. Here are 7 of the best outdoor adventure destinations to visit in Europe.

# Iceland

Thundering waterfalls, glaciers, the Northern Lights, and dramatic cliffs full of birdlife: Iceland has gained fame as an outdoor destination for lots of valid reasons. A wonderful introduction to the beauty this Nordic country has to offer is the Golden Circle. This popular route takes you to the stunning Gullfoss waterfalls, the lava fields of Thingvellir National Park, and the Geysir area full of bubbling mud pools, a spouting geyser, and smoke rising up from the earth.

Thrillseekers will be pleased with a glacier walk on Solheimajokull or a multi-day hike through the rugged interior of Landmannalaugar. For complete solitude surrounded by breathtaking scenery, the Snaefelsness Peninsula and the Westfjords are some of the best spots to go in Iceland.

# Tatra Mountains

This enchanting mountain range forms the natural border between Slovakia and Poland. The Tatra Mountains might not have the legendary status of the Swiss or French Alps, but this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve makes up for its lack of fame with majestic peaks and a network of mindblowing hiking paths. The Tatra Mountains are home to incredible wildlife, and you should keep an eye open for wolf, bear, and lynx.

But it’s not just about hiking in the Tatras. The winter season calls the skiing and snowboarding public to their snowy slopes. Zakopane on the Polish side is the perfect base to go out and tackle all the pistes in the area, while Jasna is the Slovakian equivalent. In other seasons, mountain biking and rock climbing make for great fun in this relatively unknown alps.

# Dolomites

The Dolomites are known for their characteristic pointy granite rocks. This northern Italian region is what most outdoor explorers dream about. The Dolomites attract rock climbers, mountain bikers, and hikers who come here for the challenging routes and rewarding scenery. Summer is the season for rafting and hiking. It’s recommended to choose a trail around the Three Peaks: connecting mountains that are iconic for the Dolomites. Other desirable tracks lead to some magnificent lakes, such as Lago di Carezza and Lago di Sorapiss.

In the wintertime, the Dolomites turn into one of the most awe-inspiring winter sport destinations in Europe. The Dolomiti Superski area has 1200 kilometres of slopes, enough to please newbies and ski veterans alike.

# Faroe Islands

This small group of islands seems lost on the world’s map, but when you set foot on this archipelago, an entirely new world opens up. The Faroe Islands consist of momentous fjords, colourful fishing communities, and a teeming wildlife population. Despite the tiny scale of the Faroe Islands, this enclave will easily keep you entertained for a week. See the clown-like puffins at Mykines, make your friends back home jealous by posing at the famous Mulafossur waterfall, and put on your hiking shoes for the track to the surrealistically beautiful Kallurin Lighthouse.

Although the idea might not be too appealing, you can undertake several activities on the water around the Faroe Islands. If you’re up for a special experience, you can paddle on the Atlantic Ocean during a sea kayak safari or even go surfing.

# Georgia

This country in the Caucasus region is a haven for travellers who seek outdoor adventures. A large part of Georgia is covered by the Caucasus mountain range, which results in an abundance of tramping tracks. One of the best regions to breathe the fresh mountain air is Svaneti, an area that is home to Georgia’s highest peaks. Try to tackle the steep climb from Latali to Mount Mkher, from where you have a 360-degree view of the impressive peaks of Mount Ushba (4710 metres), Mount Laila (4009 metres) and Mount Tetnuldi (4858 metres), among others.
Another scenic spot for hiking in Svaneti is Ushguli, where you can walk between ancient stone towers, encircled by the giants of the Caucasus range.

# Lapland

Lapland is divided between Finland and Sweden and is one of the most picturesque regions in Northern Europe. Despite the harsh weather conditions, Lapland is mainly visited in the winter. With pine trees covered in snow, the Northern Lights, and heaps of snow-related activities, these all explain the pulling force Lapland has during this season.

You can go snowmobiling, ride a sled pulled by husky dogs, or go on a night walk to enjoy the magical Northern Lights.

# Scotland

Scotland is quite sparsely populated and has a rich variety of landscapes, which makes it a compelling outdoor destination in Europe. The mountainous Isle of Skye is one of the country’s favoured locations; it has coastal cliffs, the wonderful Fairy Pools waterfalls, and mirror lakes that reflect the epic scenery.

But there are lesser-known places in Scotland that can’t be overlooked either. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is a gem with rolling hills, a splendid lake and the presence of wildlife like deer and otter. Visit the St. Kilda archipelago for alien volcanic landscapes, or conquer the numerous summits of Cairngorms National Park.