Best National Parks from Italy to Portugal: your 2018 Holiday in Europe
With towering peaks, rugged shores and untouched forests, Europe’s national parks exhibit some of the most breathtaking and diverse nature in the world. Explore the picturesque national parks that span from Italy to Portugal. Join us on an adventure that would entice any nature lover to plan a trip to Europe and have a fabulous holiday in the green!
1. Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy
We suggest that you start your holiday in Europe in Italy with the Gran Paradiso National Park. Situated between Aosta valley and the Alps, the Gran Paradiso National Park is a paradise for protected wildlife. Surrounded by the majestic Alps, it also holds the famous peaks of Mont Blanc, Monte Rosa and Matterhorn.
2. Monti Sibillini National Park, Italy
Monti Sibillini National Park is covered with white snow in the winter, colorful flowers in the spring, and green pastures in the summertime. It is one of Italy’s most beautiful national parks and is also a great spot to engage in outdoor activities and surround yourself with the most awe-inspiring nature.
3. Belluno Dolomites National Park, Italy
From mesmerizing mountains to enchanted forests and wildlife watching, Belluno Dolomites National Park has just about everything to offer the nature-loving traveller. If you love a good treasure hunt, try to find as many turquoise ponds and lakes as you can; they’re hidden between the cracks of the Rockies and each is its own world of wonder.
4. Cinque Terre National Park, Italy
National Geographic has added Cinque Terre National Park to its list of the top 10 hiking trails in the world! The park is so named for its five lively and authentic cliff-side fishing villages. Stroll along the villages and take it all in: the charming small houses, the colors, the smells and the people. You will fall head over heels for this timeless trail. Many consider in a “must” for any holiday in Europe.
5. Écrins National Park, France
Start your French exploration high up in the clouds at Écrins National Park. The park is a valley of glaciers and white mountain summits: a beautiful asylum for the wandering soul. This setting has historically offered inspiration to countless poets – clarity and peace await you too!
6. Pyrénées, France
Wilder than the Alps, your next stop is the Pyrénées Mountain Range. This range boasts rare wildlife, tall snow capped mountains, and breathtaking scenery. Bordering the south of France, it is surrounded by natural hot springs, bright blue lakes and air so pure it will cleanse your body and mind.
7. Port-Cros National Park, France
Just east of Toulon on the less familiar island of Port-Cros, you will find the peaceful beauty you have been waiting for in Port-Cros National Park: an off-the-beaten-path Mediterranean secret.
8. Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, Spain
And on to Spain! Rich with wildlife, mountains, lakes and green forests, Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park is quite the gem of the Spanish Pyrenees. Accompanying its abundant wildlife, it also holds a wealth of history and features great historical sites.
9. Garajonay, Spain
Garajonay’s beauty has earned it a UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Locared on the Canary Islands, the park is a wild reserve of thick forests and unruly trees whose tangled branches sprawl in all directions. Talk about a real-life fairytale! You must add this fantastic place to your Spain itinerary!
10. Madeira National Park, Madeira Island, Portugal
Our last country for the tour: Portugal. Madeira National Park encompass nearly two-thirds of the Archipelago of Madeira and is home to some of the planet’s most unique and exotic flora and fauna. It is also known to be occupied by various endangered species! If you’re planning a road trip in Portugal, this place is the first one in the “must see” category!
11. Peneda-Gerês National Park, Portugal
Peneda-Gerês National Park’s astonishing landscape is dotted with beautiful mountain peaks. With great hiking trails and campsites, you should make sure to explore the prehistoric remains scattered through its grounds.
What are you waiting for? Pack your hiking boots and head out on the adventure of a lifetime! How many of these parks do you plan to visit on your next holiday in Europe?
