4 beautiful beginner hiking destinations in Italy

Perhaps best known for its historic cities overflowing with art and architecture such as the capital, Rome, Italy is awash with enchanting countryside that provides the perfect contrast for a well-rounded trip.

You don’t have to be a hiker to enjoy the most magnificent rural destinations: there are plenty of trails suited to beginners that provide access to unbeatable vistas and reveal the country’s authentic culture in heritage sites, small villages and mouth-watering cuisine. Discover four regions for easy hiking in Italy and add your favourite to your next Italian holiday.

1. Chianti Wine District, Tuscany

Most famous for its wine, Chianti is the image that probably first springs to mind when you picture Tuscany. Backed by the Apennine Mountains, gently undulating hills form green waves which roll out to the horizon, fronted by lush grape-growing vineyards and charming farmhouses. This area is just an hour from Florence and Siena, making it a convenient option for Italy guided tours that cover culture and countryside.

Uncompromisingly relaxing from the word, Gaiole is a particularly pretty area with a wide choice of easy hiking trails, or you can explore the region’s wine heritage in Mugello.

• Val Gardena, The Dolomites

One of the most popular destinations for active Italy trips is the Dolomites, the northeast mountain range known for its striking spiky peaks and chocolate-box valley villages.

While summiting the highest mountains on foot requires hiking experience, you can get gondolas and cable cars to the top to enjoy the spectacular views while limiting walks to the valley floor. Val Gardena is a great area alive with traditional culture and unique scenery.

• The Cinque Terre, Liguria

Italy’s westerly coastline, just east of Monaco, is one of the lesser-visited parts of the country where authentic habits still thrive, and rural living is king. Delicious seafood is plentiful, freshly caught each morning, and distributed throughout the pretty painted villages that crawl along the cliffs.

Cinque Terre, ‘the Five Lands’, is a national park along the Liguria shoreline famed for its captivating changing views and colourful fishing ports set on small sandy bays. It’s a rewarding part of the region for hiking holidays but beware there many steps to tackle in the towns.

• The Amalfi Coast, Campania

Another glorious seaside area is the Amalfi Coast, a 50-kilometre stretch just below Naples that is one of the world’s iconic luxury travel destinations. Settled since the Middle Ages, this incredibly attractive area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its natural land-forms just offshore which include islets and illuminated caves.

Walking here is primarily peaceful strolls taking in the sea views with plenty of opportunities to wander down to quiet bays for paddling or into the characterful towns to try delicious local dishes. This is a great holiday option for honeymooners or those who prefer a slower pace of travel.

Disclaimer: this is a collaboration post.