From its bustling city centres to its rural retreats, Europe is home to some of the best adventure holiday destinations in the world. If you’re already a seasoned thrill-seeker, there’s plenty of towering mountains, wild seas and raging rivers to keep you entertained, and if you’re a newbie to the adventuring world, Europe is the perfect playground for first-timers.
We’ve put together a list of our favourite adventure holiday destinations this year for you to add to your bucket lists…
Hiking near Barcelona
Barcelona is a favourite holiday destination for many Europeans, with more than 7 million visitors each year, but most people disregard the beautiful Catalonian countryside that surrounds the city. If you’re a keen hiker, it doesn’t get much better than the towering mountains, dramatic cliffs and crystal clear waters just a few minutes away from the city centre. Head to Montserrat (an hour by train) for a challenging mountain hike or Cap de Creus (a couple of hours drive) for cliff jumping, snorkelling and amazing views of the Mediterranean.
Need somewhere to stay in Barcelona? Our hostel near Las Ramblas offers both private and shared rooms.
Skiing in the French Alps
The Alps are home to the tallest mountain in Europe, Mont Blanc, and some of the world’s best skiing and snowboarding resorts. A sport that’s easy to pick up but difficult to master, there’s no better feeling than sliding gracefully (or not) down a pristine piste surrounded by pine trees and majestic mountains. Skiing holidays can be expensive, so if you’re on a budget head to Les 7 Laux or Isola 2000 in January.
You can reach the Alps in under 4 hours from Paris. Check out our award-winning hostels in the French capital.
Scuba Diving in Croatia
Scuba diving is often associated with more tropical climates, but Europe’s underwater world is just as thrilling. Croatia has become a top destination in recent years for its crystal clear waters, warm summers and picturesque coastline, but it can still be visited on a budget. Lokrum Island , 10 minutes from Dubrovnik, is a top spot, as are the Pakleni Islands just outside of Hvar. Expect to see rare species of animals, huge reefs, wrecks, caverns and even an underwater museum (near Mali Lošinj).
Bungee Jumping in Germany
A classic adrenaline junkie activity, some of the world’s best (and safest) bungee jumping is found in Germany. If you want to get your blood pumping, try out the base jump in Berlin which towers over the city, or a bungee over a reservoir in Munich. This isn't one for the faint-hearted - so make sure you're psyched up before you head off!
Check out our two hostels in Berlin.
Surfing in Newquay
Newquay is a surfers paradise, with miles of fine sandy beaches and safe, clear bays. If you’re new to the scene then there’s plenty of friendly surf schools offering training and rental equipment, and if you’re already an expert the world-class waves won’t disappoint. If you don’t mind a slightly colder sea, the best swells in Newquay are often found in the Autumn and Winter months.
Our beachfront Newquay hostel is the perfect base for your surfing holiday.
White Water Rafting in Austria
Austria is one of the best adventure holiday destinations in Europe with skiing and hiking in the West, plus mountain biking and skydiving in the East. The white water rafting in the Central Easter Alps is second to none, with plenty of options to choose from near the popular resort of Zell am See. If you want to give rafting a go, but don’t want to travel too far from the city, Vienna now has a state of the art watersports arena with artificial white water rafting, kayaking and more.
Visit our brand new hostel in Vienna.