Discover Europe’s wellness walks
If you’re seeking a way to fully unwind and reconnect during your holiday, there’s nothing quite like a wellness walk.
Whether you've been counting down the days to your holiday or booked it last minute to take a break, we know it can take time to fully relax.
Wellness on holiday looks different for everyone – whether it’s enjoying an Aperol spritz with lakeside views, rambling mountain trails for sunset scenes, or taking a relaxing stroll with gelato in hand.
However, wellness walks offer something truly special. Walking isn’t just great for your body – it’s a powerful way to boost both your physical and mental well-being.
What is a wellness walk?
What makes an ideal wellness walk? It’s all about finding the right balance of tranquility and ease.
Here’s what to look for:
- Peaceful surroundings: Quiet trails in nature.
- Gentle terrain: Routes that are easy to moderate, avoiding steep inclines or tricky paths.
- Uninterrupted paths: Free from road crossings to keep you fully immersed.
- Stunning scenery: Forests, meadows, and coastal views provide a calming backdrop. Restful stops: Scenic spots to pause and take it all in.
- Nearby comforts: A charming café to reward yourself at the end of the walk. Manageable distances: Enough to rejuvenate, but not so long that it feels overwhelming.
- Wildlife moments: Wildlife to spot along the way.
Walks in nature that fit Your nature
There’s something uniquely grounding about walking in nature. Whether you're exploring wildflower meadows or walking a coastal path with sweeping sea views, these moments help you feel calm and focused.
We’re proud to partner with Mind Over Mountains, an amazing charity that uses nature to support mental health. Our partnership includes both funding and volunteering because we believe in the positive impact of spending time outdoors. With our long history of organising nature-based holidays since 1934, it’s a perfect fit.
Wherever you’re headed, a wellness walk is sure to be a highlight of your holiday. So, lace up your shoes, take a deep breath, and let nature work its magic. Every step brings you closer to feeling refreshed and restored. Getting outside really is great for a reason.
Our top picks for wellness walks
Recharge your body and mind with these wellness walks. With trails like these, every step is a step towards feeling your best.
The Dolomites, Italy
The Dolomites are perfect for wellness walks, with peaceful trails, fresh mountain air, and views that make you stop and breathe it all in.
Stroll through meadows, forests, and alongside sparkling streams, soaking up the calm as you go. Take your time on gentle trails like those in Val Gardena or find a quiet spot to enjoy the incredible views from the Mastlé-Santa Cristina Panoramic Balcony.
At sunrise and sunset, the mountains glow red - a magical moment you’ll want to pause and take in. Finish your walk with a visit to a cosy rifugio for some delicious local food and a well-earned rest.
In the heart of the UNESCO Puez Odle Natural Park
Explore the breathtaking Puez Odle Natural Park, a protected gem in the heart of the Dolomites and part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. This walk takes you through stunning landscapes, with the option to tackle a steep but rewarding ascent to the Mastlé-Santa Cristina Panoramic Balcony.
From the balcony, you’ll be treated to incredible views of the Dolomite peaks, Val Gardena, and the iconic Pieralongia rock formation - a striking natural needle rising dramatically from the ground.
On your way back, stop at a cosy rifugio to enjoy a delicious bite of local mountain food or a refreshing drink, rounding off an unforgettable day in this magical setting.
Grade: Easy to moderate
Distance: 8-12km (with optional extensions)
Duration: Full day (approx. 5.5 hours walking time)
Terrain: A mix of meadows, rocky paths, and curated trails Highlights: Optional ascent for panoramic views, and sightings of unique rock formations.
Merano, Italy
With its Alpine-Mediterranean climate, Merano has long been celebrated as a health resort. Tranquil promenades, the soothing sound of the Passer River, and stunning mountain views create the ideal atmosphere for a wellness-focused stroll.
Tall to the Taseralm walk
Starting at the Verdins-Tall cable car, you'll ascend to Tall (Oberkirn) before embarking on a trail that winds along paved roads, wooded paths, and open meadows. Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Ifinger mountain and the Merano basin.
- Other trails: The Tappeiner Promenade offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, while the Sissi Path is perfect for history lovers, connecting castles and gardens.
- Best season: spring and autumn for mild temperatures and vibrant landscapes.
Saalbach Hinterglemm, Austria
Saalbach Hinterglemm is a walker’s paradise, with countless trails weaving through scenic mountain sides and valleys. Whether you’re after a leisurely stroll, an immersive forest wellness walk, or a hut-to-hut adventure, there’s a path to suit everyone.
Wellness lovers will enjoy the peaceful forest trails, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the fresh mountain air. Whether you're walking with family or taking time for yourself, Saalbach Hinterglemm’s paths offer a great mix of activity and calm.
Forest Wellness Trail
The Forest Wellness Trail offers over 1,000 spruce trees, areas for yoga to breathe in the fresh forest air, and spots for picnics and relaxation. Spend as long as you like soaking up the serene woodland atmosphere.
- Unique features: Dedicated yoga spots, forest library, and tranquil picnic areas.
- Trail length: A short circuit, approximately 20-30 minutes, perfect for mindfulness.
- Accessibility: Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Mayrhofen, Austria
Mayrhofen is full of walks with a purpose, whether you’re discovering sculptures on the ‘Art River’ walk, looping past local cheese at the Brandberg dairy farm, or enjoying the Ahorn Leisure Trail with its buggy-friendly viewing platforms.
For a peaceful escape, head to the Stilluptal Valley, known for its stunning waterfalls and striking blue reservoir. And if you’re a keen hiker, the vast trails of the Zillertal will keep you coming back to explore what’s around the next corner.
Wellness Meets Mountain Food
A walk in the mountains is even better when it ends with a plate of something delicious. Tyrolean mountain huts are perfect for refueling and relaxing, with sunny terraces serving hearty local dishes like Zillertaler Krapfen (traditional savoury crepes), Schliachta-Nudeln (ribbon pasta in cheese sauce), or Melchermuas (dairymen's pancake).
These tasty dishes are an integral part of Zillertal tradition, celebrated during the Schmankerlfest (Food Festival) in Hippach and the Krapfen Festival in Schwendau each summer.
There’s no better way to round off a mountain walk than with a taste of these authentic Austrian treats.
View our guide to traditional Austrian food.
Krimml Waterfalls
These stunning falls are said to have healing properties. With well-maintained paths, viewing platforms, and a nearby restaurant, it’s a perfect spot for a leisurely visit. For those feeling adventurous, take the hike to the top for breathtaking views.
- Grade: Moderate (some steep sections)
- Distance: 4km (round trip) Duration: 2-3 hours
- Highlights: Multiple viewpoints and an option to explore higher levels of the waterfall.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled isn’t just for relaxing by the water - it’s also a fantastic spot for exploring on foot. The eastern edge of the Julian Alps stretches towards the lake, offering plenty of scenic trails for walkers.
A must-see is the Vintgar Gorge, where wooden walkways and bridges lead you above the turquoise waters of the Radovna River. For a more peaceful escape, head to the Pokljuka Plateau, located near Triglav National Park. Here, you’ll wander through lush green pastures dotted with traditional shepherd’s huts, soaking in the calm of the mountain landscape.
Whether you’re exploring stunning gorges or enjoying a gentle walk in the fresh mountain air, Lake Bled combines natural beauty with a sense of wellness perfect for a walking holiday.
Arnold Rikli Walk
Discover Arnold Rikli’s Trails, inspired by the famous Swiss healer. From barefoot paths to fitness trails, these routes encourage a deeper connection to nature. Don’t miss Rikli’s Relaxation Park for a meditative pause.
- Trail variety: Includes fitness routes, forest trails, and lakeside paths.
- Additional activities: Guided meditation sessions and wellness-focused events.
- Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.
Nendaz, Switzerland
With over 250 kilometers of hiking trails, Nendaz is a dream for walkers of all abilities. The region’s stunning alpine scenery, well-marked paths, and diverse landscapes make every walk an adventure.
Take a gentle stroll along the Bisse de Saxon, a historic irrigation channel that meanders through pastures and orchards, or challenge yourself with a hike up to Dent de Nendaz for breathtaking views of the Four Valleys. For something unique, follow the fruit-themed trail to learn about Nendaz’s rich raspberry and apricot cultivation.
Wellness walkers will love the serene Balavaux Alp, home to some of Europe’s largest larch trees, and the tranquil Japanese Garden, where you can surround yourself in nature.
Barefoot Trail
This trail is perfect for families and nature lovers alike. The new Barefoot Trail offers a unique experience, allowing you to enjoy unforgettable walks and feel different textures beneath your feet. The trail starts with various natural surfaces, including sand, wood chips, pebbles, pine cones, wood pieces, earth, moss, and pine needles.
You can continue your barefoot adventure along a signposted path marked with white panels featuring playful footprints. The walk lasts about 50 minutes and ends at the refreshing Printse River, where you can dip your feet in for a cool, relaxing footbath.
- Trail type: Designed for sensory experiences, featuring natural textures like grass, sand, and water.
- Trail length: 1.5km, ideal for a short yet impactful walk.
- Nearby attractions: Combine with a visit to local vineyards or alpine viewpoints.
Kandersteg, Switzerland
Find peace and calm under the peaks of the Swiss Alps. Discover the unspoiled landscape of the Lötschen Valley and its charming traditional villages, or enjoy a gentle walk along the River Kander. The Gasterntal Glacier Valley, with its impressive waterfalls, abundant wildlife, and dense forests, is another peaceful spot for a relaxing stroll.
For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Gemmi Pass offers incredible views of iconic peaks like the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa, and the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of historical figures like Picasso and Sherlock Holmes.
Alternatively, tick off a must-do walk by exploring a section of the famous Via Alpina - one of the longest and most spectacular hiking trails in Europe, and perhaps the world. Whether you're after a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Kandersteg offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and tranquility for wellness walks.
Oeschinensee
Oeschinensee is a stunning natural wonder located at the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage region. Surrounded by beautiful wildflowers like orchids, gentian, and edelweiss, as well as grazing sheep and cattle, it’s a paradise for nature lovers. Easily accessible from the top of the Oeschinen gondola in Kandersteg, this breathtaking lake is a must-see.
You can take a relaxing stroll along the lake, rent a boat to enjoy the water, or simply take in the views. However, be aware that it can get quite busy in high season, so it’s best to catch the first lift if you're visiting in July or August. Whether you're looking to swim, fish, picnic, or dine with a view at the lakeside restaurant, Oeschinensee offers endless ways to enjoy a day out with the family.
- Grade: Easy
- Distance: 3km (to the lakeside and back)
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Highlights: Optional boat rentals and lakeside dining spots.
Funchal, Madeira
Madeira is a fantastic destination for walking and wellness, thanks to its famous Levadas. These 3,000 kilometres of paths follow historic stone irrigation channels that were originally built to transport water across the island.
Some walks are gentle strolls through orchards and lush laurel forests, while others offer more challenging climbs up mountains and into deep gorges.
With names like Paradise Valley and Eagle Rock, the trails offer both stunning views and a chance to reconnect with nature, making it a perfect destination for both walkers and wellness seekers. However, we always recommend exploring these trails with a guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Inghams Guided Walk: Paradise Valley with Afternoon Tea
Join us for a guided walk along a Levada, where you'll enjoy peaceful views of the mountains and sea. Your expert guide will lead you through a picturesque rock valley filled with wildflowers and breathtaking landscapes.
The walk concludes at a local tea house, where you'll indulge in a fantastic afternoon tea with sweet potato bread, homemade jams, cakes, and fresh seasonal fruit, all while soaking in the beautiful surroundings and visiting the herb garden.
- Grade: Easy
- Distance: 3km
- Duration: Approx. 4 hours (Walking time approx. 1.5 hours)
- Ascent/Descent: Mostly level walking path
- Terrain: Primarily level, but some areas may be uneven
- Useful Information: This guided walk includes Hotel pick-up and return. Water refills are available along the route. Please note, there are no toilet facilities on the walk until the tea house at the end.
Arinsal, Andorra
Andorra is a great place for wellness walks, offering peaceful surroundings to help you relax and recharge. Located in the Pyrenees, it’s filled with fresh mountain air, calm lakes, and soothing pine forests.
With easy trails, you can enjoy nature at your own pace, whether you’re taking in stunning mountain views or strolling through peaceful landscapes. Well-maintained paths and clear signs make it easy to disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature.
Cami del Pla de I’Estany Walk
This easy, family-friendly route is just over one kilometre long and offers a fantastic way to explore Andorra’s Comapedrosa Natural Park in La Massana.
Starting at the Arinsal Dyke, near the ski resort car park, the path leads to the Pla de l’Estany area, one of the most beautiful spots in the park and in all of Andorra.
There are two versions of the route, one easier and more suitable for small children, while the other is a bit more challenging due to its rougher terrain. Both paths are well signposted with white and red GR markings, as they follow parts of the GR11 and GR11.1 trails, with some sections also marked by yellow and red GRP signs.
As you walk, you’ll pass through groves of hazel trees and Scots pine, as well as open meadows that were once farmed, with old stone walls and traditional farmhouses called ‘bordes’ (such as Agunes and Coruvilla Bordes).
When you reach Pla de l’Estany, you’ll be greeted by a stunning glacial lake surrounded by a variety of plant species, including dogtooth violets, rose daphne, and primroses. In spring, the area comes alive with natural beauty.
Bergen, Norway
Norway is a perfect destination for easy, peaceful wellness walks, especially in Bergen. The city, known as the "city of the seven mountains," offers beautiful, serene walking paths with stunning views. Two of its most popular peaks, Floyen and Ulriken, are accessible and ideal for relaxation and exploration.
You can easily reach Mount Fløyen via a funicular, which takes you to a lovely park, lake, café, and a network of well-marked walking trails.
For a bit more adventure, head to Ulriken by cable car, or take on the 1,300 stone-cut stairs if you're up for a challenge. From both mountains, you can enjoy some of the best views in Bergen, making these walks perfect for those seeking peace and tranquility in nature.
Mount Fløyen
Mount Fløyen offers a variety of walking options that you can adjust based on your ability and preference. If you're looking for an easier option, you can take the funicular to the top of the mountain and then enjoy a leisurely walk back down to the city, which is around 3.5 kilometers and all downhill with scenic views along the way.
For a bit more of a wellness challenge, hike up the mountain to get your blood pumping. The steady uphill climb, with some steeper sections, will get your heart rate up, but the panoramic views over the city from the top make it all worth the effort.
At the summit, you'll find cafés, restaurants, and even more trails to explore if you’re in the mood for a bit more adventure.
Ability: Easy/Moderate (depending on whether you decide to walk up or down the mountain, or both!)
Duration: Approx. 2 hours
Morzine, France
Surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes, it’s ideal for exploring at a relaxed pace. Enjoy a peaceful walk around the picturesque Lake Montriond, where you can picnic, paddle, or simply soak in the scenery.
For something a little more active, head to Mont Chery for a circular walk with breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, or follow the path of the French Resistance for a moderate route that crosses into Switzerland.
With the Morzine Multipass offering local discounts and easy access to chairlifts that take you higher into the mountains, you can effortlessly explore more of the area while enjoying a wellness-focused holiday.
Whether you're seeking peaceful nature walks or a bit of alpine dining at mountain restaurants, Morzine is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Lac Montriond
Lac Montriond is easily accessible from Morzine by public transport and is the third-largest natural lake in the Haute-Savoie region.
The terrain around the lake is mostly flat, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll or to relax and soak up the sun by the shore.
If you're in the mood for a bit more adventure, you can extend your walk to the Ardent waterfall. It’s a bit of a climb, but the views are definitely worth it.
Our guided walks
As part of your holiday, many of our resorts offer the chance to join up to two exclusive guided day walks, led by an expert local guide.
Each week, you can choose from a leisurely walk and a more challenging route — or even try both! The walks start and end in your resort, so there's no need for heavy luggage or overnight stays, and you'll return in time for dinner.
Visit our Graded Walking page for routes that match your level, and discover our top recommendations for wellness walks in your destination.
