Europe’s islands offer a diverse range of landscapes, from volcanic craters and dramatic cliffs to lush forests and pristine beaches. Whether you prefer hiking, diving, cycling, or wildlife spotting, there’s an island perfectly suited to your adventure style. This guide explores 15 of the best European islands to visit in 2025, highlighting outdoor activities and natural beauty.
1. Lofoten Islands, Norway
Rising sharply from the Arctic waters, the Lofoten Islands create an almost otherworldly landscape of jagged peaks and deep fjords. The archipelago is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering incredible hiking trails such as the Reinebringen hike, which rewards climbers with one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Scandinavia.
Kayakers can paddle through mirror-like waters, where sea eagles soar above and orcas sometimes glide below. Winter transforms Lofoten into a dream destination for ski touring, with untouched snow-covered slopes leading down to the ocean. The islands are also one of the best places to witness the Northern Lights, their reflection shimmering over the fjords in a dazzling display of green and purple hues.
2. Madeira, Portugal
Nicknamed the “Hawaii of Europe,” Madeira is a rugged, subtropical island that boasts lush laurel forests, towering sea cliffs, and an intricate network of levada trails. These ancient irrigation channels now serve as scenic walking paths, guiding hikers through tunnels, waterfalls, and terraced vineyards.
Discover Madeira: Portugal’s Second-Largest Island
Madeira, Portugal’s second-largest island, is a true Atlantic paradise known for its dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and vibrant culture.
Paragliders launch from mountain peaks to soar over the island’s dramatic coastline, while divers explore an underwater world teeming with marine life in the Garajau Marine Reserve. Madeira’s volcanic origin provides unique outdoor experiences, such as bathing in natural lava pools at Porto Moniz or climbing Pico Ruivo, the island’s highest peak, for an unforgettable sunrise above the clouds. A visit isn’t complete without trying the island’s famed poncha, a traditional sugarcane spirit, to cap off an adventure-filled day.
3. Azores, Portugal
A collection of nine volcanic islands in the North Atlantic, the Azores are a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The landscape is defined by emerald-green calderas, thermal hot springs, and cascading waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for hikers.
Discover São Miguel Island: Portugal’s Largest Island
São Miguel, Portugal’s largest island, is the crown jewel of the Azores archipelago, nestled in the Atlantic Ocean.
One of the most iconic trails is the trek around Sete Cidades, where twin lakes – one blue, one green – sit in an extinct volcanic crater, their colors shifting with the light. The Azores are also one of the world’s best spots for whale watching, with sperm whales and dolphins frequently spotted in the surrounding waters. On Pico Island, climbers challenge themselves to summit Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest peak, where sweeping ocean vistas reward the effort. Scuba divers will find volcanic arches, caves, and even submerged shipwrecks to explore, making the Azores an unrivaled adventure destination.
4. Isle of Skye, Scotland
Few places capture the imagination quite like the Isle of Skye, where rugged landscapes and brooding weather create an air of mystery. The Old Man of Storr, a towering rock formation, is a must-visit for hikers seeking breathtaking views over the Sound of Raasay.
The Quiraing landslip offers another remarkable trekking experience, where shifting rock formations and rolling green hills make for a dramatic backdrop. Sea kayakers can explore the island’s labyrinthine coastline, paddling past sea caves and spotting seals lounging on rocky shores. In the island’s interior, the Fairy Pools, with their crystal-clear waters and cascading waterfalls, invite brave visitors to take a refreshing dip. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting golden eagles, otters, and red deer roaming the untamed landscape, ensuring that every outdoor adventure in Skye is unforgettable.
5. Faroe Islands, Denmark
Isolated in the North Atlantic, the Faroe Islands feel like a world unto themselves, where sheer cliffs plunge into the sea and emerald-green pastures stretch into the distance. Hiking here is nothing short of spectacular, with trails leading to viewpoints such as the famous Drangarnir sea stacks or the dramatic cliffs of Sørvágsvatn, a lake that appears to hover above the ocean.
Puffins nest in the thousands along the steep cliffs, making this an excellent destination for birdwatching. The ever-changing weather adds an element of adventure, as fog rolls in and out, revealing and concealing the landscape like a shifting painting. Those who brave the rugged terrain will be rewarded with moments of pure solitude, where the only sounds are the wind and the distant crash of waves against the cliffs.
6. Corsica, France
Known as the “Island of Beauty,” Corsica lives up to its name with a landscape that seamlessly blends mountains and sea. The island is home to the GR20, one of Europe’s most challenging long-distance hiking trails, stretching over 180 kilometers (112 miles) across its rugged interior.
Discover Corsica: France’s Largest Island
Corsica, France’s largest island, floats serenely in the Mediterranean as a dazzling blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
Beyond hiking, Corsica offers canyoning in the Bavella Needles, where adventurers can rappel down waterfalls and leap into crystalline pools. The coastline, with its hidden coves and vibrant marine life, is perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving, especially in the protected Scandola Nature Reserve. Mountain bikers can tackle forested trails in the Castagniccia region, winding past ancient chestnut groves and remote hilltop villages. As the day ends, travelers can unwind with a glass of local wine, produced from grapes grown in Corsica’s sun-drenched vineyards.
7. Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia’s rugged coastline and clear turquoise waters make it an irresistible destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The island’s east coast is dominated by the dramatic limestone cliffs of the Supramonte region, where hikers can explore the deep canyons and hidden caves of Gola su Gorropu, one of Europe’s deepest gorges.
Offshore, the Maddalena Archipelago beckons sailors and snorkelers with its untouched beaches and crystal-clear lagoons. Inland, mountain bikers navigate the rolling hills and oak forests of the Gennargentu National Park, where Sardinia’s traditional pastoral culture remains unchanged for centuries. Rock climbers can test their skills on the island’s karst formations, with routes ranging from beginner-friendly crags to challenging overhangs. For those seeking a taste of local life, Sardinia’s agriturismi offer farm-to-table dining, showcasing the island’s rich culinary heritage.
8. Tenerife, Spain
While Tenerife is famous for its beaches and lively resorts, its true allure lies in its rugged volcanic landscapes. At the heart of the island stands Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak, which can be summited on foot or via cable car, offering panoramic views that stretch as far as the neighboring Canary Islands.
Discover Tenerife: The Canaries’ Largest Island
Tenerife, the shining star of Spain’s Canary Islands, beckons travelers with its extraordinary landscapes, year-round sunshine, and vibrant culture.
The Anaga Rural Park, with its misty laurel forests and jagged ridges, is a paradise for hikers, while mountain bikers will find thrilling trails winding through ancient lava fields. Tenerife’s coastline provides excellent opportunities for diving, particularly in areas where volcanic rock formations create caves and tunnels teeming with marine life. Paragliders launch from high cliffs, catching thermals that offer a bird’s-eye view of the island’s diverse terrain. As night falls, Tenerife’s status as a Starlight Reserve makes it one of the best places in the world for stargazing.
9. Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca, the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who crave both mountain and sea adventures. The Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO world heritage site, offers some of the best hiking and cycling routes in Europe, winding through olive groves, medieval villages, and dramatic coastal cliffs.
Climbers are drawn to the island’s limestone crags, while deep-water soloing – a form of free climbing over the sea – has put Mallorca on the map for adrenaline seekers. Kayakers and paddleboarders can explore hidden coves and sea caves along the island’s rugged coastline, while divers will find underwater caves and wrecks teeming with marine life. After a day of adventure, travelers can unwind with a glass of local wine in the scenic town of Sóller or take in the sunset at Cap de Formentor.
10. Hvar, Croatia
Hvar is more than just a glamorous island escape – it’s an outdoor paradise filled with adventures waiting to be discovered. Hikers can explore the rocky trails of St. Nicholas, the highest peak on the island, which offers panoramic views of the Adriatic and surrounding islets.
The Pakleni Islands, just off Hvar’s coast, provide a perfect setting for kayaking, snorkeling, and sailing in crystal-clear waters. Mountain bikers can take on rugged dirt trails through lavender fields and vineyards, stopping to sample local wines along the way. For history lovers, a trek up to the Spanish Fortress rewards visitors with stunning views over Hvar Town’s terracotta rooftops. After an active day, the island’s vibrant harbor comes alive with lively cafés and seafood restaurants offering the freshest Adriatic cuisine.
11. Gran Canaria, Spain
Gran Canaria, one of the Canary Islands, is often called a “miniature continent” due to its diverse landscapes, ranging from golden dunes to lush pine forests. The island’s interior is a hiker’s paradise, with trails weaving through dramatic volcanic craters and deep ravines, such as the iconic Roque Nublo.
Cyclists can tackle winding mountain roads that offer sweeping ocean vistas, while surfers flock to the northern beaches for some of the best waves in Europe. Scuba diving is exceptional here, with shipwrecks and volcanic formations attracting marine life like angel sharks and rays. Those looking for a unique adventure can even go sandboarding down the Maspalomas Dunes, a desert-like expanse reminiscent of the Sahara.
12. Gotland, Sweden
The Swedish island of Gotland, located in the Baltic Sea, is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream with its unspoiled coastline, rugged limestone formations, and medieval history. Cyclists will love the extensive network of trails that wind past fields of wildflowers, rocky shores, and ancient Viking sites.
Discover Gotland: Sweden’s Largest Island
Nestled in the Baltic Sea, Gotland is Sweden’s largest island — a place where history and nature converge in captivating ways.
The island’s signature rauks – towering sea stacks carved by wind and water – make for a striking hiking backdrop, particularly along the coast of Fårö, a smaller island just north of Gotland. Kayaking along Gotland’s coast provides opportunities to explore hidden coves and sea caves, while birdwatchers can spot rare seabirds in the wetlands of the southern coast. In the medieval town of Visby, a UNESCO world heritage site, history lovers can walk along ancient stone walls and cobblestone streets lined with colorful cottages.
13. Crete, Greece
Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is a land of epic landscapes and legendary history. The Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest canyons, offers a breathtaking 16-kilometer (10-mile) hike through towering cliffs and lush forests.
Discover Crete: Greece’s Largest Island
Nestled in the embrace of the Mediterranean Sea, Crete is a land of contrasts. It is Greece’s largest island, where rugged mountains meet the shimmering blue of the sea.
The island’s diverse terrain also includes rugged mountains perfect for trekking, such as the White Mountains and Mount Ida, the mythical birthplace of Zeus. Crete’s coastline is equally captivating, with remote beaches like Balos and Elafonissi, where pink sand meets turquoise waters. Adventurers can try canyoning in the wild gorges of Aradena or explore hidden caves along the southern coast. After a day of exploration, the island’s traditional tavernas serve up hearty dishes like dakos and slow-roasted lamb, providing the perfect fuel for the next adventure.
14. Wales, UK
Wales is a land of rugged mountains, dramatic coastlines, and ancient castles, making it an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. The Snowdonia National Park is home to the towering Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, which offers breathtaking hikes and stunning panoramic views.
Discover Wales: The Castle Capital of the World
Wales, a country celebrated for its rugged landscapes and deep-rooted history, holds the remarkable distinction of being the “Castle Capital of the World.”
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path stretches for 299 kilometers (186 miles), winding along some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in the UK, where walkers can spot seals, dolphins, and an array of seabirds. Mountain bikers will find world-class trails in Coed y Brenin Forest Park, while rock climbers can test their skills on the towering sea cliffs of Gogarth in Anglesey. For those seeking adventure on the water, kayaking through the tidal rapids of the Menai Strait or surfing the swells of Llangennith Beach provides an adrenaline rush like no other.
15. Santorini, Greece
Santorini is best known for its iconic whitewashed buildings and breathtaking sunsets, but it also offers plenty of opportunities for adventure. The island’s volcanic origins have created unique hiking trails, such as the stunning Fira to Oia route, which meanders along the caldera’s edge with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.
The ancient ruins of Akrotiri, a Minoan city preserved under volcanic ash, provide a fascinating glimpse into history. Active travelers can take a boat trip to the volcanic islets of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni, where they can hike up to a still-smoking crater and swim in thermal hot springs. Santorini’s coastline is also a playground for snorkelers and divers, with colorful underwater rock formations and hidden caves. And, of course, no visit is complete without indulging in local wines, cultivated in the island’s volcanic soil, which give them a distinct, crisp flavor.