Top Places to Hike in Winter 2026 (Europe + UK)
Winter 2026 means two practical windows for planning:
- Now through March 2026 (the current winter season in Europe/UK)
- December 2026 (the next winter season)
Either way, the move is the same: pick the right region, respect conditions, and pack layers that handle wind + rain + cold.
1) Scotland: Highlands winter walks (when the air feels alive)
Scotland has everything from calm woodland routes to serious mountain days. In winter, choose routes that match your experience and daylight.
2) Lake District, England: classic winter scenery
Shorter days, huge views. Stay flexible: lower fell walks can be perfect when peaks are icy.
3) Snowdonia (Eryri), Wales: dramatic landscapes, real conditions
Wind can be intense. Bring a shell and a warm midlayer even for “easy” days.
4) The Dolomites, Italy: Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm) winter trails
If you want a winter wonderland without committing to a technical climb, marked winter trails in the Dolomites are a strong pick.
5) Val Gardena, Italy: winter hiking routes with marked tracks
Look for signed winter walks and stick to official routes.
6) Madeira, Portugal: winter sun hikes (milder temps, huge views)
When mainland Europe is icy, Madeira stays hike-friendly. Expect wind and quick weather shifts on exposed paths.
7) Tenerife, Canary Islands (Spain): volcano hikes in winter
One of the best “escape the cold” options while still feeling like a real adventure.
8) Algarve, Portugal: coastal trails for light layers
Perfect for winter walking with a lighter jacket setup (still bring rain protection).
9) Southern Spain (Andalusia): big-day hikes without alpine snow
Pick routes based on elevation — winter can still surprise you in higher areas.
Winter hiking safety (don’t be the headline)
- Daylight: start early and plan to finish with time to spare.
- Navigation: don’t rely on one device. Carry a backup plan.
- Essentials: head torch, whistle, spare warmth, basic first aid.
- Conditions: if it’s icy, adjust the plan. The mountain will still be there tomorrow.
What jacket to bring (quick picks)
- UK/Atlantic winter: waterproof shell + warm midlayer
- Alps/Dolomites: insulated layer + shell (wind and snow)
- Madeira/Canaries: light shell + breathable layers
Pro tip: your “best winter hike” is the one that matches conditions and your experience level. Choose smart, then send it.
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