The best cruise ports for hiking

Going on a cruise holiday offers a unique blend of culture and adventure, allowing travellers to explore diverse destinations while enjoying the comforts of a floating resort. For hiking and outdoor enthusiasts, cruise ports provide the perfect gateway to some of the world's most stunning trails and natural landscapes, which you may not even think to visit. In this guide, we have looked at the best cruise ports for hiking, where cruisers can immerse themselves in nature and experience the thrill of hiking.

The best cruise ports for hiking:

·        Reykjavik, Iceland

·        Geiranger, Norway

·        Edinburgh, Scotland

·        Las Palmas, Gran Canaria

·        Lisbon, Portugal

·        Arrecife, Lanzarote

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the country's dramatic landscapes. The city itself is surrounded by a wealth of hiking trails that showcase Iceland's unique geothermal features and rugged beauty.

One of the most popular hikes is the climb to Mount Esja, located just outside the city. This mountain offers several routes of varying difficulty, with the summit providing breathtaking views of Reykjavik and the surrounding coastline. Another fantastic hiking destination is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can hike along the rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating a dramatic landscape of fissures, lava fields, and crystal-clear springs. For those interested in marine life, a day trip to the nearby Snaefellsnes Peninsula offers opportunities for whale watching combined with scenic hikes along the rugged coastline.

Geiranger, Norway

Geiranger, a small village nestled at the end of the Geirangerfjord, is one of Norway's most scenic destinations and a top spot for hiking. The fjord's steep cliffs and cascading waterfalls create a dramatic backdrop for outdoor adventures. The hike to the viewpoint at Skageflå is a highlight for many visitors.

This trail starts with a boat ride across the fjord, followed by a steep climb to an old mountain farm that offers stunning views of the fjord and the Seven Sisters waterfall. For a less strenuous but equally rewarding hike, the Storseterfossen trail takes you behind a waterfall, providing a unique perspective of the cascading water and the lush valley below. Geiranger's trails are well-marked and offer a range of difficulties, making it a perfect destination for hikers of all levels.

READ MORE: UNESCO World Heritage Sites You Can Visit On A Norway Cruise

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh, with its rich history and stunning landscapes, is an ideal destination for hikers looking to combine cultural experiences with outdoor adventures. Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano located in the heart of the city, offers a relatively easy hike with panoramic views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside. The trail to the summit takes you through grassy slopes and rocky outcrops, providing a sense of wilderness within the city. For those willing to venture a bit further, the Pentland Hills Regional Park offers a variety of trails that wind through rolling hills, past serene reservoirs, and scenic viewpoints. This area is perfect for a day trip, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in Scotland's natural beauty.

Las Palmas, Gran Canaria

Las Palmas, the capital of Gran Canaria, is a vibrant city that also serves as a fantastic base for hiking enthusiasts. The island's diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains to lush forests and volcanic formations, provide a wealth of hiking opportunities. One of the most popular trails is the Caldera de Bandama, a volcanic crater offering spectacular views over the island and the Atlantic Ocean. The hike around the rim of the caldera is relatively easy, allowing for a leisurely exploration of this unique geological feature. For a more challenging adventure, the Pico de las Nieves, the highest peak on the island, offers trails that traverse pine forests and rocky terrain, culminating in breathtaking panoramic views of the island and even neighbouring Tenerife on clear days. Gran Canaria's varied hiking trails showcase its natural beauty, making Las Palmas a perfect port of call for those seeking to combine urban exploration with outdoor adventure.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, the picturesque capital of Portugal, offers a delightful mix of urban charm and natural beauty, making it a wonderful destination for hikers. While the city's historic districts and vibrant culture captivate many visitors, the surrounding landscapes provide excellent hiking opportunities.

The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, located just a short drive from Lisbon, is a hiker's paradise with its lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and stunning palaces. One of the most popular trails is the hike to the Pena Palace, a colourful 19th-century Romanticist castle perched atop a hill, offering breathtaking views of the park and the Atlantic Ocean. Another great hiking destination is the Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe.

The trails here lead you along rugged cliffs with sweeping ocean views, allowing you to fully appreciate the raw beauty of Portugal's coastline. Lisbon's proximity to these diverse hiking areas makes it an ideal port of call for those looking to explore both cultural landmarks and natural wonders on foot.

READ MORE: Hidden Gems In Lisbon, Portugal

Arrecife, Lanzarote

Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands, is a gateway to some of the most unique and striking hiking experiences in the world. Lanzarote’s volcanic landscapes offer an otherworldly backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. The Timanfaya National Park is a must-visit, featuring surreal lava fields and craters formed by volcanic eruptions. The park offers guided hikes that provide insights into the island’s geological history while allowing you to explore its stark, moon-like terrain. Another fascinating hike is the Caldera Blanca trail, which takes you to the rim of a large volcanic crater, offering panoramic views of the island and its volcanic features.

The coastal hike from Arrieta to the natural pools of Los Charcones combines rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and the chance to observe diverse marine life. With its dramatic volcanic scenery and coastal beauty, Arrecife is an exceptional port of call for hikers seeking both adventure and natural wonder.

Whether you are planning a cruise to Iceland or want to hike somewhere warmer, cruises provide the perfect opportunity to explore these incredible destinations and their hiking trails. Whether you’re trekking up a mountain for a panoramic view or strolling along a coastal path, these ports of call offer unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. So, lace up your hiking boots, pack your sense of adventure, take a look at our cruise deals and get ready to discover some of the best hiking destinations.

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