7 wonderful outdoor attractions in Europe

FromCosta Brava, the Rhine to the towering Alps, Europe’s geography may very well be the most exciting quality about the continent. Well, if you are an outdoor enthusiast, then there are so many outdoor attractions waiting to be explored in Europe.

I consider myself lucky to have explored these places personally, so here are my top 7 wonderful outdoor attractions in Europe:

Teide, Spain

Being the highest elevation (12,198 feet) in Spain, Mount Teide is the 3rd largest volcano in the world. Only volcanoes in Hawaii are larger! It is an active volcano that last erupted in 1909, Mount Teide is surrounded by beautiful Teide National Park, and our course the amazing island of Tenerife. The park covers a total area of 19,000 hectares and it was declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Reasons to visit

Take my word for it, Teide National Park is a must-visit. The park attracts about 4 million visitors annually from different parts of the world. This national park also offers hiking trails and routes. Other attractions of the park include - collapsed craters, atypical rock formations, striking 800m crater, etc. 

Carrick-a-Rede, Northern Ireland

This is a striking rope bridge in Northern Island and one of the key tourist attractions. On the way, you will come across various vantage points where you can stop to appreciate the natural beauty and gorgeous surroundings. With its geology, rich flora & fauna it has been recognised as an area of special scientific interest.

Reasons to visit

In addition to having a wonderful experience of walking on the bridge, you get to admire the astonishing views of the shoreline. In addition, you also get to explore nearby sites as well including - Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills, and Ballycastle.

Corsica, France

The volatile history of this beautiful island of Corsica is mirrored in its vivid landscape. Corsica has been witness to various historic events and every year thousands of tourists from around the world come here to see its beautiful coastline, enjoy the mild climate, and mountainous landscape. This place is also known to offer the best cuisines and local drinks.

Reasons to visit

If you really like to witness nature at its best, taste exquisite cuisine, and explore historic architecture then Corsica is the place to be.

Sicily, Italy

This place is my personal favourite and while you are here, you can indulge in so many different outdoor activities. Mount Etna is one of the main attractions in Sicily. It is also one of the world’s active volcanoes and surprisingly one of the beautiful as well. You can choose a group tour by quad to Mount Etna and it is for two hours.

Reasons to visit

Sicily does offer you so many reasons to visit including - 400 craters, enjoying an adventure tour to a waterfall created by lava, climbing Mount Etna, and speleological tours. All in all, it is indeed a great place that offers a great variety of outdoor attractions.

Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy

Considered the most beautiful national park in Italy, Gran Paradiso National Park offers an opportunity of a lifetime to enjoy a memorable experience of hiking. Enjoy trekking and cherish the natural beauty including - clear blue sky, pure air, huge ice mass, wonderful landscape, green meadows, etc. Cogne is a must-visit where you get to enjoy excellent mountain food including - hams, polenta, mountain bread, and special rice & cheese.

Reasons to visit

If you love hiking and want to capture beautiful natural scenes through the lens of your camera, then you need to visit this place. In addition, this is also a great place to enjoy common activities such as bird and animal watching. This place is known for its rich wildlife and you don’t need to put any extra effort to spot some local inhabitants here. 

Slea Head, Ireland

If I had to describe this place in a word, then that word would be - awesome. That’s right, this is a perfect word that describes the dramatic coastline, panoramic views, and beautiful sandy beaches of this corner of Ireland. Located at the western tip of Dingle Peninsula, it can be easily reached from the main town of Dingle. On the way, you get to see Beehive huts (made of stone having the shape of a beehive), gorgeous views over the Atlantic, and rugged coast covered with greenery. 

Reasons to visit

Some of the common reasons to visit Slea Head are - Coumeenoole Beach, wild seabirds, superb walks, one of a lifetime opportunity to witness Gannets, Fulmar, and Gulls. 

Isle of Skye, Scotland

The Isle of Skye is a picturesque place to visit and it offers a great variety of outdoor attractions. If you are really interested in exploring wildlife, then go on a boat trip. You have the option of choosing from various boat tours. You can visit Loch Coruisk bordered by Cuillin Range or you can take a boat from Portree to explore Raasay or Rona (neighbouring islands). Once on the boat, you get to explore perfect wildlife moments such as watching Dolphins, Whale, Seals and Otters.

Talking particularly about outdoor activities, then you can enjoy paintballing, climbing, kayaking, and walking. Skye is quite popular for its stunning scenery, so you have the opportunity to improve your photography skills.

Reasons to visit

Amazing scenery, opportunities for hiking & climbing, witnessing rich wildlife are some of the reasons why you should visit the Isle of Skye.