It's time to get past the tourist traps to revisit some of Europe's most beloved destinations. They're popular for a reason - but we want to show you a whole other side by simply lacing up your hiking boots. New perspectives are a given, but you'll also gain a new perspective with time spent in the local communities. Breathe deeply in the lush greenery of the Azores, sample wines at an Andalusian vineyard, savor the work of cheese makers in Corfu, and dine with a local family in Crete. With that in mind, let's take a look at six active rides in:
Azores
What's your opinion: An easy haven for the masses
What will you do: Endless beaches and sunshine are great, but they don't get your heart pumping like a stroll around the islands of Sao Miguel and Terceira. Our six-day adventure with a dedicated guide to the island shows some of the best nature found in the archipelago. You can hike through scenic waterfalls, take a dip in the hot springs near Sanguinho, and even opt for a Sete Cidades culinary tour.
What you will love: Get back to nature and discover the flora and fauna of the South Island as well as get to know Terceira, the "Lilac Island" named after the lava fields that glow purple in the sunset.
Watch it for yourself at: Hiking in the Azores
Southern Spain
What's your opinion: Eat yourself silly in the raft villas
What will you do: Well, eating is always a good time, but wouldn't it be nice to cut out some of that food and drink? Hike to 15th-century castles, stay overnight in a cave hotel (yes, really!) and enjoy the less-visited areas of Benalua de Guadix and Canillas. You can even choose to cruise through Andalusia's most impressive Caminito del Rey gorge.
What you will love: An adventure for all your senses! Hiking through mountain passes, ancient history and a unique lodging experience - all while not missing a single shot of wine at the local vineyards and really good food.
Watch it for yourself at: Hiking in Southern Spain: Authentic Andalusia
Canary Islands
What's your opinion: Sunbathing on beaches filled with lifters and retirees
What will you do: Find a whole new way to exude a fresh glow as you explore the lush forests of Anaga, wander around Tenerife, and hike to scenic drives between the villages of Erjos and Masca. In addition, there is a wine tasting!
What you will love: Reconnect with the great outdoors in UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, guided hikes through ancient Laurisilva forests, village visits and explorations of prehistoric cave houses, dark sky sanctuaries for the ultimate stargazing.
Watch it for yourself at: Hiking in the Canary Islands: Tenerife, Anaga and Beyond
Ibiza
What's your opinion: Epic party beaches and super crowded clubs
What will you do: There is a natural side to the White Island if you're ready to hike along the rugged coastline and dense pine forests in the north of the island where they are rarely visited by tourists and dotted with local gems. Starting in the eastern town of Santa Eularia des Rua, you'll visit local villages, explore quiet backstreets, and even choose to spend the day cycling in nearby Formentera.
What you will love: Take advantage of the island's quieter bohemian side, away from the touristy areas of San Antonio. This six-day hiking trip is perfect on its own or added to a few days enjoying the island's famous music scene.
Watch it for yourself at: Hiking Ibiza
Corfu
What's your opinion: Travel and get lost on beach holidays
What will you do: "Corfu Trail" - a unique hiking route that winds through ancient villages, old historic churches and along coastal paths. Our seven-day tour based in Corfu Town usually takes up to two weeks and overnight hotel swaps, and lets you experience the best of the trail while sleeping in the same bed each night.
What you will love: See, smell and taste Greece in the great outdoors with rare opportunities to visit the southern beaches and mountains in the north. Enjoy days wandering through olive groves, browsing Byzantine castles and stopping to snack on local, handcrafted cheeses. Tasty!
Watch it for yourself at: Corfu Hiking Trail highlights
Crete
What's your opinion: Charter flights to large hotel complexes
What will you do: Explore the stunning Samariá Gorge and White Mountains of Crete without having to carry all kinds of luggage. Over the course of seven days, you'll cruise along the southern coast, visiting remote villages and coastal towns, diving into secluded swimming spots, wandering through stunning pine forests, and passing through the "Iron Gates". It is the narrowest point in the valley, with rocks on both sides 600 meters high.
What you will love: Stay active while staying away from the trappings of the big resorts. Instead, you'll travel through places that can only be reached on foot or by boat, join a local family in Loutro for dinner, and enjoy some Greek dancing. Oops!
Watch it for yourself at: Hiking in Crete: gorges and coastal paths
Ready to walk the new land? Check out both Active adventures far from the usual In classic European destinations.
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