Walk the Wild Side: Best Islands for Hiking and Trekking

For those who find peace in the mountains, thrill in the wilderness, and joy in the journey, islands offer some of the most stunning and diverse hiking experiences on the planet. From rugged coastlines to towering peaks, these islands provide a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty. Whether you're seeking challenging treks or serene nature walks, here are ten of the best islands to visit for hiking and trekking lovers.

1. Madeira, Portugal

Madeira, often called the “Island of Eternal Spring,” is a hiker’s paradise. Located in the Atlantic Ocean, this Portuguese island boasts a vast network of levadas—irrigation channels that double as walking paths—winding through lush laurel forests, dramatic cliffs, and serene valleys. The island’s diverse terrain means you can start your day with a hike through ancient forests and end it with a coastal walk overlooking the ocean. For those seeking a challenge, the trail to Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest peak, offers stunning panoramic views that reward every step.

Top Hikes:

1. Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo: A challenging trek connecting two of the island’s highest peaks, offering breathtaking views above the clouds.
2. Levada das 25 Fontes: A moderate hike through verdant landscapes, leading to a stunning waterfall.
3. Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço: A scenic coastal trail showcasing Madeira’s rugged eastern coastline.
4. Levada do Caldeirão Verde: A magical hike through lush forests, ending at a hidden waterfall.
5. PR1 Vereda do Areeiro: A thrilling ridge walk offering dramatic mountain scenery.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time for hiking in Madeira is from April to October, when the weather is mild and the trails are most accessible.

Local Tips:

1. Bring Layers: Weather can change quickly, especially at higher elevations.
2. Use a Map or GPS: Some trails can be tricky to navigate.
3. Start Early: To avoid crowds and enjoy cooler morning temperatures, hit the trails early.

2. Kauai, Hawaii, USA

Kauai, known as the “Garden Isle,” is a top destination for hikers seeking lush landscapes and dramatic scenery. The island’s diverse trails range from coastal paths along the famous Na Pali Coast to forested treks leading to hidden waterfalls. The Kalalau Trail, a challenging trek along the rugged coastline, offers some of the most spectacular views in the Pacific. For those looking for variety, the island’s interior is rich with rainforest trails, river valleys, and towering waterfalls, making Kauai a true hiker’s haven.

Top Hikes:

1. Kalalau Trail: An 11-mile trek along the Na Pali Coast, offering jaw-dropping views and secluded beaches.
2. Awa'awapuhi Trail: A ridge hike with stunning views of the Na Pali Coast’s steep cliffs.
3. Hanakapiai Falls Trail: A moderate trek through lush jungle to a 300-foot waterfall.
4. Waimea Canyon Trail: Often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this trail offers dramatic canyon views.
5. Alakai Swamp Trail: A unique hike through one of the world’s highest swamps, with rare bird sightings.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to hike in Kauai is from April to June and September to November, when the weather is pleasant, and the trails are less crowded.

Local Tips:

1. Prepare for Rain: Kauai is known for its rain showers, so pack rain gear.
2. Wear Sturdy Shoes: Trails can be slippery and uneven.
3. Pack Light: Bring plenty of water and snacks, but keep your pack light.

3. Tasmania, Australia

Tasmania, an island state off the southern coast of Australia, is a treasure trove for hikers and trekkers. Known for its wild landscapes, ancient forests, and pristine coastlines, Tasmania offers some of the most untouched and diverse hiking experiences in the world. The Overland Track, a 65-kilometer trek through the heart of Tasmania’s wilderness, is one of the world’s most famous multi-day hikes. Beyond this iconic trail, Tasmania’s national parks, including Freycinet and Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair, offer a range of hikes that showcase the island’s dramatic natural beauty.

Top Hikes:

1. Overland Track: A 6-day trek through alpine plains, rainforests, and glacial valleys.
2. Wineglass Bay Circuit: A scenic hike in Freycinet National Park, offering stunning views of Wineglass Bay.
3. Cradle Mountain Summit: A challenging hike to the summit, with panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.
4. Three Capes Track: A multi-day coastal hike along the Tasman Peninsula, with dramatic cliff views.
5. Mount Field National Park: A variety of hikes, including the iconic Russell Falls and the alpine Tarn Shelf.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to hike in Tasmania is from December to March, during the summer months when the weather is warm and trails are at their best.

Local Tips:

1. Pack for All Weather: Tasmania’s weather is notoriously unpredictable.
2. Book in Advance: Popular hikes like the Overland Track require permits and can book up quickly.
3. Carry a First Aid Kit: Some trails are remote, so it’s important to be prepared.

4. Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia, Italy’s second-largest island, is a hiker’s dream with its mix of coastal trails, rugged mountains, and ancient ruins. The island’s diverse landscapes offer everything from serene beach walks to challenging mountain treks. The Selvaggio Blu, often described as one of the most difficult treks in Italy, takes hikers along Sardinia’s wild eastern coast, with stunning sea views and dramatic cliffs. Inland, the Gennargentu Mountains offer a different kind of adventure, with trails that wind through ancient forests and past historic sites, giving hikers a taste of the island’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

Top Hikes:

1. Selvaggio Blu: A challenging multi-day trek along the eastern coast, known for its rugged beauty.
2. Tiscali Cave: A hike to a hidden ancient village inside a mountain cave.
3. Su Gorropu Gorge: Explore one of Europe’s deepest gorges with towering limestone walls.
4. Gennargentu Mountain Range: Trek through Sardinia’s highest peaks, offering breathtaking views and rich biodiversity.
5. Cala Goloritzé: A scenic coastal hike leading to one of the island’s most beautiful beaches.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time for hiking in Sardinia is from April to June and September to October, when the weather is mild and the trails are not too crowded.

Local Tips:

1. Hire a Guide for Selvaggio Blu: The trail is difficult to navigate without a guide.
2. Stay Hydrated: Sardinia can get hot, so carry plenty of water, especially on longer hikes.
3. Respect Local Culture: Sardinia has a unique culture, so be mindful of local customs and traditions.

5. Corsica, France

Corsica, the “Island of Beauty,” is a paradise for hikers and trekkers, offering a rugged landscape of mountains, forests, and pristine beaches. The island’s most famous trail, the GR20, is often cited as Europe’s toughest long-distance hike, stretching 112 miles across the island from north to south. This challenging trek takes hikers through Corsica’s wild interior, with stunning views of jagged peaks, deep gorges, and alpine meadows. For those looking for something less demanding, Corsica’s coastal paths and forest trails offer equally beautiful but more accessible hiking options.

Top Hikes:

1. GR20: A challenging multi-day trek across the island, known for its rugged terrain and stunning mountain views.
2. Mare e Monti Trail: A scenic trail that offers a mix of coastal and mountain landscapes.
3. Lac de Nino: A hike to a high-altitude lake, surrounded by lush meadows and wild horses.
4. Capo Rosso: A coastal hike to a Genoese tower, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
5. Restonica Valley: A trek through a dramatic gorge to glacial lakes with crystal-clear waters.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to hike in Corsica is from May to September, when the weather is warm and the trails are dry and accessible.

Local Tips:

1. Train for the GR20: The GR20 is demanding, so good physical condition is essential.
2. Stay Hydrated: Corsica can be hot in summer, so carry plenty of water.
3. Respect Local Customs: Corsica has a strong cultural identity; be mindful of traditions and practices.

6. Isle of Skye, Scotland

The Isle of Skye, located off the west coast of Scotland, offers some of the most dramatic hiking landscapes in the world. Known for its rugged terrain, towering cliffs, and sweeping moorlands, Skye is a paradise for hikers who crave adventure. The Quiraing, a landslip on the eastern side of the island, offers one of the most iconic hikes, with surreal rock formations and panoramic views. The Old Man of Storr, a striking rock pinnacle, is another must-do hike, providing breathtaking views over the island and the sea. Whether exploring coastal paths or venturing into the Cuillin mountains, Skye offers unforgettable hiking experiences.

Top Hikes:

1. The Quiraing: A loop trail through some of Skye’s most dramatic landscapes, with towering cliffs and rock formations.
2. Old Man of Storr: A popular hike to a massive rock formation, offering stunning views of the island’s eastern coast.
3. Fairy Pools: A short hike to a series of crystal-clear pools and waterfalls at the foot of the Cuillin mountains.
4. Bla Bheinn: A challenging climb to one of Skye’s highest peaks, with incredible views over the island.
5. Neist Point: A coastal hike to the westernmost point of Skye, with panoramic views of the sea and lighthouse.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to hike on the Isle of Skye is from May to September, when the weather is milder and the days are longer.

Local Tips:

1. Prepare for Midges: These tiny biting insects are common in the summer; bring repellent.
2. Check the Weather: Skye’s weather is unpredictable, so always check the forecast before heading out.
3. Respect the Land: Stick to marked trails and avoid disturbing the fragile environment.

7. New Zealand

New Zealand’s South Island is a trekking lover’s dream, offering a diverse range of landscapes from volcanic mountains to lush rainforests and pristine beaches. The country’s Great Walks, a series of multi-day trails, are world-renowned for their stunning scenery and well-maintained paths. The Milford Track, often described as the “finest walk in the world,” takes hikers through the heart of Fiordland National Park, with views of towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and emerald-green forests. Beyond the Great Walks, New Zealand’s South Island offers countless other hiking opportunities, from the volcanic landscapes of Tongariro to the coastal beauty of Abel Tasman.

Top Hikes:

1. Milford Track: A 33-mile trail through Fiordland National Park, offering some of the most spectacular scenery in the world.
2. Tongariro Alpine Crossing: A challenging day hike through volcanic landscapes, with views of Mount Ngauruhoe (Mount Doom in “The Lord of the Rings”).
3. Routeburn Track: A 20-mile trail that crosses through alpine meadows, rivers, and forests, offering stunning views of the Southern Alps.
4. Abel Tasman Coast Track: A coastal trail through golden beaches, lush forests, and clear blue waters, perfect for a multi-day adventure.
5. Kepler Track: A 37-mile loop through Fiordland’s diverse landscapes, including beech forests, alpine ridges, and lakes.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to hike in New Zealand is from November to April, during the southern hemisphere’s summer, when the weather is warm and the days are long.

Local Tips:

1. Book Early: The Great Walks are popular and have limited availability.
2. Be Weather-Wise: New Zealand’s weather can change rapidly, so always check the forecast.
3. Respect the Environment: New Zealand’s natural beauty is fragile, so stick to the trails and practice Leave No Trace principles.

8. Azores, Portugal

The Azores, an archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, offer some of the most stunning and remote hiking experiences in Europe. The islands’ volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and dramatic coastlines provide a diverse range of trails for all levels of hikers. São Miguel, the largest island, is known for its crater lakes, geothermal springs, and scenic coastal paths. The hike to the summit of Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest peak, is a challenging but rewarding trek that offers breathtaking views over the Atlantic. Whether exploring rugged interiors or walking along dramatic coastlines, the Azores offer a unique hiking experience in a truly wild setting.

Top Hikes:

1. Sete Cidades: A scenic hike around two crater lakes, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
2. Mount Pico: A challenging climb to Portugal’s highest peak, with stunning views over the islands and the Atlantic.
3. Lagoa do Fogo: A hike to a beautiful crater lake surrounded by lush vegetation, perfect for a peaceful day in nature.
4. Salto do Prego: A hike through a verdant forest to a stunning waterfall, with a natural pool for a refreshing dip.
5. Faial Caldeira: A hike around the rim of a massive volcanic crater, offering breathtaking views of the island’s interior.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to hike in the Azores is from May to October, when the weather is mild and the trails are dry and accessible.

Local Tips:

1. Respect the Weather: The Azores’ weather can be unpredictable, so always be prepared for rain and wind.
2. Hire a Local Guide: A guide can help you navigate the often challenging terrain.
3. Pack Light: The trails can be steep and rugged, so pack light and wear sturdy boots.

9. La Palma, Canary Islands, Spain

La Palma, one of the lesser-known Canary Islands, is a hiker’s paradise, offering a diverse range of trails through volcanic landscapes, dense forests, and along dramatic coastlines. Known as the “Beautiful Island,” La Palma is home to Caldera de Taburiente National Park, where you can hike through one of the world’s largest erosion craters, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation. The island’s unique geography also offers opportunities for stargazing, as it is home to some of the clearest skies in the world. Whether exploring volcanic peaks or walking through ancient laurel forests, La Palma offers a hiking experience that is both challenging and rewarding.

Top Hikes:

1. Ruta de los Volcanes: A challenging hike along a chain of volcanoes, offering stunning views of the island’s volcanic landscapes.
2. Caldera de Taburiente: A hike through the heart of the island’s national park, with breathtaking views of the caldera and surrounding mountains.
3. Roque de los Muchachos: A hike to the highest point on the island, with panoramic views and world-class stargazing opportunities.
4. Bosque de Los Tilos: A walk through a lush laurel forest, with a beautiful waterfall and diverse plant life.
5. El Cubo de la Galga: A peaceful hike through a dense forest of ferns and laurel trees, perfect for nature lovers.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to hike in La Palma is from March to May or September to November, when the weather is mild and the trails are less crowded.

Local Tips:

1. Respect the Environment: La Palma’s landscapes are fragile, so stick to the trails and avoid disturbing the natural environment.
2. Bring a Headlamp: If you’re planning to stargaze, bring a headlamp for safety, but use a red light to avoid disturbing your night vision.
3. Stay Hydrated: The island’s volcanic terrain can be challenging, so carry plenty of water.

10. Réunion Island, France

Réunion Island, located in the Indian Ocean, is an adventurous hiker’s dream with its volcanic landscapes, deep canyons, and lush forests. This French overseas territory offers a mix of challenging treks and scenic walks through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the world. The island’s most famous hike is the trek to the summit of Piton des Neiges, the highest peak in the Indian Ocean, offering breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding ocean. For those seeking a more leisurely walk, the island’s cirques—natural amphitheaters formed by volcanic activity—provide stunning trails through tropical forests, past waterfalls, and through picturesque villages.

Top Hikes:

1. Piton des Neiges: A challenging climb to the highest peak in the Indian Ocean, with stunning sunrise views.
2. Cirque de Mafate: A trek through a remote, roadless area, offering a glimpse of traditional Creole life and dramatic scenery.
3. La Roche Écrite: A hike to one of the best viewpoints on the island, with panoramic views over the cirques.
4. Trou de Fer: A challenging trek to a stunning waterfall deep in the forest.
5. Piton de la Fournaise: A trek to the active volcano, offering a chance to see the raw power of nature up close.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to hike on Réunion Island is from May to November, during the dry season, when the weather is cooler and more stable.

Local Tips:

1. Check Volcanic Activity: If hiking Piton de la Fournaise, check for volcanic activity and trail closures.
2. Prepare for Elevation: Some hikes reach high altitudes, so acclimate gradually and be prepared for thinner air.
3. Respect Local Customs: Réunion has a unique culture, so be mindful of local traditions and practices.

For those who love to explore on foot, these islands offer a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and unforgettable trekking experiences.