Are you curious where your Barbie hiking doll wants to go for her summer vacation? Don’t worry, I’ve been exploring Europe by foot for 8 years and have all the most scenic and fun trails for you to share with your bestie Barbie hiking doll.
A Guide to the 25 Most Scenic Hiking Routes in Europe for Barbie and You
25 Best Places to take Your Barbie Hiking Doll
I’ve made a little guide to where your barbie hiking doll should go for vacation in Europe to hike. I’ve broken it up by section of Europe and included the closest airport so you can have the best soft hiking experience possible.
| Trail | ⭐️ Why it’s awesome |
|---|---|
| #1 Olpererhutte Austria | Giant swing bridge over a lake. |
| #2 Tour du Mont Blanc, France, Switzerland Italy | Around the biggest mountain in Europe. |
| #3 Fisherman’s Trail, Portugal | Atlantic Coast Cliffs |
Bonus: Absolute Best Hike for Your Barbie Doll: Olpererhutte Hike in Austria
The Olpererhütte hike is a beautiful 3 hour trek in the Zillertal Alps of Austria, offering stunning views of glaciers and peaks. It is special due to the Zillertal Alps bridge that offers such a cool optical illusion!
✈️ The closest airport to the trailhead is Innsbruck Airport, which is approximately 70 kilometers away.
🎥 Watch our Olpererhutte hike video.
What You Will Learn
25 Best Hiking Trails Starting in Western Europe
1. Tour du Mont Blanc
The Tour du Mont Blanc Hike is one of the best hiking trails in Europe. It traverses 170km (110 mi) passing through the countries of France, Italy, and Switzerland to circumnavigate the entire Mont Blanc Massif in the Western Alps. The classic route is normally walked anti-clockwise over 11 days. We like the 5 day TMB trek Morgan built from Chamonix to Rifgio Bonatti.
✈️ The closest airport is Geneva.
🎥 Watch our TMB youtube video.
2. Fisherman’s Trail, Portugal
The Fisherman’s Trail hike is a stunning coastal walk in Portugal that follows the rugged coastline of the Alentejo region. It stretches for 120 km (75 mi) along the Atlantic Ocean, starting in Porto Covo and ending in Cabo de Sao Vicente.
✈️ The closest airport is Lisbon or Faro and this is better done in Spring or Autumn.
🎥 Watch our Fisherman’s Trail Video.
3. Alta Via 1, Dolomites
The Alta Via 1 hike is one of the most popular hiking trails in the Dolomites, Italy. It stretches for 120 km (75 mi) across the northern Italian Alps, passing through high-altitude meadows, mountain passes, and rocky peaks.
✈️ The closest airport is Venice.
🎥 Watch our Alta Via 1 Hike Video.
4. Moselsteig, Germany
The Moselsteig is a 365 km (227 mi) long-distance hiking trail that follows the Moselle River through the beautiful wine-growing region of Germany. The trail passes through picturesque villages, vineyards, the Geierlay bridge hike and medieval castles.
✈️ The closest airport is Frankfurt.
🎥 Watch our Moselsteig hiking video.
5. Rhine Castles Trail, Germany
The Rhine Castles Trail or “Rheinburgenweg” is a 200 km (124 mi) long-distance hiking trail that follows the Rhine River through the Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trail passes through charming villages, vineyards, and historic castles.
✈️ The closest airport is Frankfurt.
🎥 Watch our Rhine Castles Trail Video.
6. Camino de Santiago, Spain
The Camino de Santiago, also known as the Way of St. James, is a pilgrimage route that stretches for 800 km (500 mi) across northern Spain. The trail passes through stunning landscapes, historic towns, and beautiful churches.
✈️ The closest airport is Santiago de Compostela.
7. Hexatrek, France
Hexatrek is a 120 km (75 mi) hiking trail that passes through the heart of the French Pyrenees and the Alps all the way to the Voges. It aims for mountains. The trail takes hikers through beautiful mountain landscapes, over high passes, and past picturesque villages.
What do you think Barbie’s trail name is? Check out my trail name generator to learn more.
✈️ The closest airport is Toulouse.
8. Haute Route, Switzerland & France
The Haute Route is a classic hiking trail that stretches for 180 km (112 mi) through the Swiss Alps, from Chamonix in France to Zermatt in Switzerland. The trail passes through some of the most stunning mountain landscapes in the world, including the Matterhorn.
✈️ The closest airport is Aosta Valley Airport.
Best Hiking Trails in Eastern Europe
9. Via Transylvanica, Romania
The Via Transylvanica is a 1400 km long trail that runs from the Carpathian Mountains to the Danube River. It is a relatively easy hike with a lot of cultural and historical sites along the way formed by the Tășuleasa Social. The best time to hike the trail is between May and October.
✈️ The closest airport is Cluj-Napoca.
10. Kotor Ladder, Montenegro
The Kotor Ladder is a challenging 1200-step hike that leads to the top of the mountain above the town of Kotor. The view from the top is breathtaking, and it’s definitely worth the effort. The best time to hike the trail is between April and October.
Step into Adventure
👉 Kotor Fortress Hike
✈️ The closest airport is Tivat.
11. High Tatras, Slovakia
The High Tatras are the highest mountains in Slovakia, and they offer some of the best hiking trails in Eastern Europe. There are many trails to choose from, ranging from easy to very difficult. The best time to hike the trails is between June and September.
✈️ The closest airport is Poprad.
12. Via Dinarica, Western Balkans
The Via Dinarica is a long-distance trail that runs through eight countries in the Western Balkans. It is a challenging hike, but it offers some of the most beautiful views in the region. The best time to hike the trail is between May and October.
✈️ The closest airport is Sarajevo.
13. Juliana Trail, Slovenia
The Juliana Trail is a 270 km long trail that runs around the Julian Alps in Slovenia. It is a lovely hike with stunning views of the mountains and green lakes. The best time to hike the trail is between May and October.
✈️ The closest airport is Ljubljana.
Best Hiking Trails in Northern Europe
14. Kungsleden, Sweden
Kungsleden is a 440 km (273 miles) hiking trail that runs through the Swedish Lapland, one of the last wilderness areas in Europe. The trail starts in Abisko and ends in Hemavan. The trail is known for its stunning vistas of mountains, glaciers, and arctic tundra. The trail is open from mid-June to mid-September.
✈️ The closest airport is Kiruna Airport, which is about 100 km (62 miles) from the trailhead.
15. West Highland Way, Scotland
The West Highland Way is a 154 km (96 miles) hiking trail that runs from Milngavie to Fort William in Scotland. The trail passes through some of Scotland’s most stunning landscapes, including Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. The trail is open year-round, but the best time to hike it is from May to September.
✈️ The closest airport is Glasgow Airport, which is about 30 minutes from the trailhead.
16. Laugavegur, Iceland
Laugavegur is a 55 km (34 miles) hiking trail that runs through the highlands of Iceland. The trail starts in Landmannalaugar and ends in Þórsmörk. The trail is known for its stunning vistas of glaciers, hot springs, and volcanic landscapes. The trail is open from late June to early September.
✈️ The closest airport is Keflavík International Airport, which is about 150 km (93 miles) from the trailhead.
17. Wicklow Way, Ireland
The Wicklow Way is a 132 km (82 miles) hiking trail that runs through the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland. The trail starts in Dublin and ends in Clonegal. The trail is known for its stunning vistas of rolling hills, forests, and lakes. The trail is open year-round, but the best time to hike it is from May to September.
✈️ The closest airport is Dublin Airport, which is about an hour’s drive from the trailhead.
18. Seven Sisters Walk, UK
The Seven Sisters Walk is a 22 km (14 miles) hiking trail that runs along the coast of East Sussex in the UK. The trail starts in Seaford and ends in Eastbourne. The trail is known for its stunning vistas of white cliffs, beaches, and sea views. The trail is open year-round, but the best time to hike it is from April to October.
✈️ The closest airport is London Gatwick Airport, which is about an hour’s drive from the trailhead.
19. Trolltunga, Norway
Trolltunga is a 22 km (14 miles) hiking trail that runs through the mountains of Norway. The trail starts in Skjeggedal and ends at Trolltunga, a rock formation that hangs 700 meters (2,300 feet) above Lake Ringedalsvatnet. The trail is known for its stunning vistas of fjords, glaciers, and mountains. The trail is open from mid-June to mid-September.
✈️ The closest airport is Bergen Airport, which is about 2.5 hours’ drive from the trailhead.
Best Hiking Trails in Southern Europe
20. Picos de Europa, Spain
The Picos de Europa offer some of the most stunning scenery in Spain. With peaks reaching up to 8,000 feet, this mountain range is a paradise for hikers. The most popular trail is the Ruta del Cares, a 12.5-mile hike that offers breathtaking views of the Cares River Gorge.
✈️ The closest airport is Santander.
21. Lycian Way, Turkey
The Lycian Way is a 540-kilometer trail that winds through the rugged coastline of southern Turkey. The trail takes hikers through ancient ruins, secluded beaches, and stunning mountain vistas.
✈️ The closest airport is Antalya.
🎥Watch my video of hiking in Cappadocia (a side trip from Lycian Way).
22. Path of the Gods, Italy
The Path of the Gods is a 4.3-mile trail that offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast. The trail winds through lemon groves, vineyards, and ancient ruins before reaching the town of Positano. It’s very close to the city of Naples which is worth visiting.
✈️ The closest airport is Naples.
🎥Watch my video of hiking in Ischia (a side trip from Naples).
23. GR20, Corsica
The GR20 is considered one of the toughest hiking trails in Europe, but it also offers some of the most stunning scenery. The trail covers 112 miles and takes hikers through mountain passes, rocky terrain, and crystal-clear lakes.
✈️ The closest airport is Ajaccio.
24. Cinque Terre, Italy
The Cinque Terre is a collection of five small villages along the Italian coast. The Senthiking trail that connects the villages offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the colorful houses that cling to the cliffs.
The Cinque Terre Lover’s Walk trail goes between each of the 5 picturesque villages.
✈️ The closest airport is Pisa.
25. Cala Luna, Sardinia
The Cala Luna hike is 11 km hike along the Sardinian coast. The hiking trail that wanders between the forest and the cliffs of the most electric blue water you’ve seen. It ends at a beach where you can take a boat back to the start. The trail is best in May-June and Oct-November.
✈️ The closest airport is Olbia.
🎥 Watch my video of the Cala Luna Hike.
Essential Hiking Gear and Barbie Hiking Doll Accessories
When it comes to hiking, having the right gear can make all the difference. A full barbie hiking set is listed below. These are some essential items that hikers should consider bringing on their next trek:
- Barbie Hiking Doll Backpack: A good backpack is essential for carrying all your gear. Look for one with comfortable straps and enough space to hold everything you need.
- Barbie Hiking Boots: Proper footwear is crucial for a successful hike. Invest in a pair of sturdy hiking boots that provide good ankle support and are comfortable to wear for long periods.
- Hat and Sunglasses: Protect your face and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays with a wide-brimmed hat and a pair of sunglasses.
- Jacket: Even if the weather looks good, it’s always a good idea to bring a lightweight jacket in case it gets chilly or starts to rain.
- Walking Stick: A walking stick can help you maintain your balance on uneven terrain and take some of the pressure off your knees.
- Tent and Camping Stove: If you plan on camping overnight, you’ll need a tent and a camping stove to cook your meals.
- Barbie Hiking Dog: If you’re hiking with a furry friend, make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for them too!
When packing for a hike, it’s important to consider the length of the trail and the closest airport. If you’re flying in, make sure to check the airline’s baggage restrictions to avoid any surprises at the airport.
And remember, it’s always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared when it comes to hiking gear! Bring your entire barbie hiking set and barbie hiking meme.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best hut-to-hut hikes in Europe?
One of the most popular hut-to-hut hikes in Europe is the Tour du Mont Blanc, which is a 170 km (105 miles) trail that takes hikers through France, Italy, and Switzerland. Another great option is the Haute Route, which is a 180 km (112 miles) trail that takes hikers from Chamonix, France to Zermatt, Switzerland. Both of these trails offer stunning views and comfortable accommodations along the way.
What are some of the most stunning hiking trails in Europe?
Europe is home to many stunning hiking trails, but some of the most breathtaking include the Puez-Odle Altopiano in Italy, the Balkans Three Peaks Challenge in Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, and North Macedonia, and the Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia. Each of these trails offers unique scenery and challenges, and are sure to leave hikers in awe.
What are some affordable hiking destinations in Europe?
For those on a budget, there are still plenty of great hiking destinations in Europe. The Camino de Santiago in Spain is a popular and affordable option, with many budget-friendly hostels along the way. The West Highland Way in Scotland is another great option, with stunning views of the Scottish Highlands and affordable accommodations. For those looking to explore the Balkans, the Via Transylvanica trail is a great option, with budget-friendly accommodations and stunning views of flowers, haystacks and mountains.
Remember to always check the length of the trail and the closest airport before embarking on any hiking adventure, and to come prepared with the appropriate gear and knowledge. Happy hiking!
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Buy a watch HEREWe hope this guide filled with interesting information about where you should take your Barbie hiking doll for vacation has given you the proper information to plan your next adventure.
More Resources
Discover gear that elevates your outdoor adventures. As a physical therapist, I’ve curated product comparisons to enhance safety and enjoyment, perfect for beginners or those with weary knees.
Physical Therapist Curated Gear Guides for Hikers & Skiers
- 🧎 Make your knees feel better while hiking and walking: Best Knee Braces for Hiking
- 🌳Make the downhills stop hurting and hike with more confidence Best Trekking Poles Review
- ⌚ Never get lost on the trail and navigate the wilderness safely with My Review of the Best GPS Watches for Hiking
- ❄️ Go hiking on uneven terrain safely: The Best Hiking Boots with Ankle Support
- Don’t get lost in the backcountry with : My Review of the Best 2 Way Radios for the Mountains
Author profile: Morgan Fielder is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and passionate hiker who believes in exploring the world on foot with good food. Follow her journey as she shares science-based hiking tips and advocates for sustainable tourism.