Beaches & Nature

Beaches, national parks, mountains, coastlines and nature escapes — where to find them, when to go and practical hiking and swimming tips. From Mediterranean coves to Alpine peaks, this section is for nature-first travellers.

What you will find here

• Best beaches by country: Spain, Greece, Portugal, Italy, Croatia
• National parks: Yellowstone, Plitvice, El Yunque, Triglav
• Hiking trails: from day-walks to multi-day routes
• Wildlife and nature reserves
• Best seasons and weather considerations

FAQ

What are the best European beaches?

For white sand and clear water: Myrtos (Greece), Navagio (Greece), Cala Macarella (Menorca), Playa de las Catedrales (Spain), La Digue (Seychelles for the overseas option), Elafonissi (Crete), Rabbit Beach (Lampedusa). For scenery combined: Positano, Plage de Saleccia (Corsica), Sveti Stefan (Montenegro).

What is the best national park to visit in Europe?

Plitvice Lakes (Croatia) for cascading lakes and waterfalls; Dolomites (Italy) for dramatic alpine scenery; Triglav (Slovenia) for pristine wilderness; Göreme (Turkey) for rock formations; Schwarzwald (Germany) for classic forest; Saxon Switzerland (Germany) for sandstone pillars.

When is the best time for hiking in Europe?

Alpine regions (Switzerland, Austria, Italy, France): June-September for snow-free trails. Mediterranean (Greece, Spain, Croatia): April-June and September-October avoid summer heat. UK and Ireland: May-September for the driest weather. Scandinavia: June-August, with midnight sun in the north.

Can I swim in the Mediterranean in the winter?

The sea holds heat well so November water is still 17-18°C (62-65°F) — swimmable for acclimatized locals. December-February drops to 14-15°C in most places. For reliable winter swimming, look at the Canary Islands (19-21°C all winter) or go south of the equator.

Are beach towels and sunbeds free in Europe?

Public beaches (spiaggia libera in Italy, playa pública in Spain, plage publique in France) are free to use with your own towel. Organized (stabilimenti, chiringuitos) beach clubs charge €10-30 for a sunbed + umbrella pair per day. Greek islands are mixed — many still have free stretches between the resorts.