Planning a Tour of South Europe’s Stunning Natural Attractions
Southern Europe’s breathtaking landscapes are where nature’s beauty knows no bounds. Spain, Italy, Greece, and Croatia are home to some of the world’s most eye-catching natural attractions. As a traveller, you can experience these expansive and varied landscapes in many ways, like hiking through rugged terrain, relaxing on sun-soaked shores, or strolling through verdant forests. While there are many avenues of exploration, one thing is for sure — Southern Europe promises a feast for the senses.
If you’re ready to start planning your nature-immersive European journey, we’ve listed the top Southern European destinations and itineraries to help you prepare for an unforgettable adventure that goes beyond the typical tourist spots.
Spain
Spain’s natural wonders are as diverse as they are magnificent. From the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada to the sun-drenched beaches of the Costa del Sol, Spain offers a cornucopia of landscapes to satisfy every nature lover. Discover the untouched beauty of the Picos de Europa in the north, or lose yourself in the otherworldly rock formations of the Bardenas Reales desert.
Your days in Spain will be filled with exhilarating hikes, breathtaking vistas, and the joy of connecting with nature in its purest form. Make sure to book a tour that showcases the best of Spain’s natural attractions while catering to your personal preferences.
Italy
Italy is not just a paradise for art and architecture enthusiasts; it’s a dreamland for nature lovers, too. It boasts an impressive array of ecosystems and scenery, including the dramatic Dolomites in the north and the crystal-clear waters of Sardinia in the south. The country is home to numerous national parks, each offering its own unique blend of flora and fauna.
Italy’s natural beauty is truly unparalleled — just imagine hiking through the colourful villages of Cinque Terre, with the sparkling Ligurian Sea as your backdrop, or exploring the lunar-like landscape of the Tuscan countryside. Is there anything more rejuvenating than a soak in Saturnia’s natural hot springs after a day of exploring Italy’s wild side? We think not.
Greece
Greece is a land where myth and nature intertwine, creating a landscape that seems almost too beautiful to be real. With the iconic white-sand beaches of the Cyclades and lush green forests of Zagori, Greece’s natural attractions are sure to take your breath away.
Explore the towering Meteora rock formations, where ancient monasteries perch precariously on cliff edges. Hike through the Samaria Gorge in Crete, one of Europe’s longest canyons, or kayak through the crystal-clear waters of Milos’ sea caves. Here, you can walk the road between legend and reality as though you’ve been transported into the golden era of historical wonder.
Croatia
Croatia’s untamed wilderness beckons to adventurers from across the globe. With its stunning Adriatic coastline, pristine lakes, and verdant national parks, Croatia’s rich tapestry of ecosystems offers endless opportunities for exploration and admiration.
You can spend your days sailing through the Kornati archipelago, a maze of islands and reefs often described as a nautical paradise. If you prefer to travel on foot, hike through the dense forests of Risnjak National Park, home to bears, wolves, and lynx.
Alternatively, bask in the beauty of Zlatni Rat — one of the best beaches in the world — which changes shape with the tides. And don’t forget the cascading waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes and the moon-like landscape of Pag Island.
Best Tours To Experience Southern Europe’s Natural Wonders
The following tour ideas showcase some of the most breathtaking and varied natural attractions across Spain, Italy, Greece, and Croatia. These journeys take you through iconic national parks, along stunning coastlines, and to hidden gems off the beaten path, and it’s the perfect kind of trip to hire a luxury jet. You can enjoy the wild side while still maintaining a sense of style and convenience during the travel legs.
Spanish Nature Explorer
Immerse yourself in Spain‘s diverse landscapes, starting with a hike in the Picos de Europa, then journey south to explore the otherworldly terrain of the Bardenas Reales. Conclude your trip with a visit to the Doñana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its biodiversity.
Italian Landscapes Journey
Traverse Italy’s stunning natural beauty from north to south, starting in the dramatic Dolomites and then exploring the rolling hills of Tuscany. Continue to the Amalfi Coast for breathtaking coastal views and finish your journey in the unique trulli-dotted landscape of Puglia.
Greek Island Nature Hop
Island-hop your way through Greece’s natural wonders, beginning in Crete with a hike through the Samaria Gorge, then sail to Santorini to witness the epic caldera views. Continue to Milos for its unique volcanic landscapes and finish in Zakynthos, home to the famous Navagio Beach.
Croatian Wilderness Adventure
Want to discover Croatia’s untamed beauty? Begin at Plitvice Lakes National Park, then head to the Istrian peninsula for truffle hunting in ancient forests. Sail through the Kornati National Park and conclude your journey in the rugged Velebit mountain range, a haven for wildlife.
Mediterranean Nature Cruise
Experience the best of Southern Europe‘s coastal beauty with a luxurious cruise. You can start in Barcelona and sail along the French Riviera, stopping at Corsica and Sardinia. Then, you can continue to the Amalfi Coast and Greek Islands, finishing your journey in the crystal-clear waters of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast.
Remember, the natural world is ever-changing, and each season brings its own unique charm to these destinations. Spring offers blooming wildflowers in the mountains, summer brings perfect conditions for coastal exploration, autumn paints the forests in vibrant colours, and winter transforms landscapes into serene snow-covered wonderlands.
Book Your Stay!
Southern Europe’s natural landscapes offer a diverse array of experiences for the nature enthusiast. From rugged mountain ranges to serene coastlines, each country in the region boasts its own unique natural wonders. So why wait? The stunning natural attractions of Southern Europe are calling.
