Best spots for an active mountain summer vacation?

travelhikingmountainssummer

Boyan_123

Joined:
28.08.2020
Posts: 1936

Topic Starter

24.01.2025 15:12

My partner and I are looking to plan a trip for this summer, but we want to avoid the typical crowded beach resorts. We are really into hiking, mountain biking, and maybe even some via ferrata, so we are looking for somewhere with good infrastructure and trails. We've considered the Dolomites, but are open to other suggestions in Europe or even North America if the travel time is worth it. Does anyone have a favorite region that offers a good mix of challenging terrain and nice local atmosphere? We’d prefer somewhere that isn't completely overrun by tourists if possible.

10 replies in this topic

Hani_B

Joined:
12.10.2021
Posts: 1601

20.05.2025 11:59

If you are looking for via ferrata, the Dolomites are truly the gold standard, but if you want to avoid the worst crowds, try the Julian Alps in Slovenia. Lake Bohinj is stunning and the trails are excellent without the massive queues you see in Italy.

Maistor_Ivan

Joined:
25.04.2020
Posts: 2075

08.07.2025 20:30

In reply to a previous post

Totally agree with the Slovenia suggestion. It's much more affordable and significantly less crowded than the main hubs in the Dolomites.

Martin_85

Joined:
30.01.2022
Posts: 2029

12.07.2025 13:14

Consider the Valais region in Switzerland. Zermatt is busy, but if you base yourself in the Val d'Anniviers, you get incredible mountain biking and hiking with a much more authentic local feel.

Simeon_W

Joined:
14.11.2020
Posts: 2415

25.08.2025 12:29

Honestly, skip the Alps if you want to avoid crowds entirely. Have you looked at the Pyrenees? The Spanish side, specifically around Ordesa y Monte Perdido, has world-class hiking and is way less touristy.

anonimen_bg

Joined:
19.06.2021
Posts: 619

04.10.2025 12:21

In reply to a previous post

I second the Pyrenees recommendation! The hiking there is rugged and wild compared to the manicured trails in Switzerland.

Niko_N

Joined:
17.11.2024
Posts: 1851

27.12.2025 19:46

For North America, check out Nelson, British Columbia. It's a mountain biking mecca and the Kootenays have a super cool vibe that isn't as commercial as Whistler.

Kevi_M

Joined:
28.01.2024
Posts: 2157

25.01.2026 15:25

In reply to a previous post

Nelson is a bit of a trek if you're coming from Europe, but it's worth it for the biking alone. Just be prepared for some steep climbs!

ekspert_forum

Joined:
14.09.2022
Posts: 1098

27.01.2026 12:13

Look into the Austrian Tyrol, but stay away from the major towns like Innsbruck or Mayrhofen. Smaller valleys like the Pitztal are much quieter and perfect for what you're describing.

lubopiten_k

Joined:
07.04.2022
Posts: 431

28.02.2026 03:29

In reply to a previous post

I've been to the Pitztal and can confirm it's a hidden gem. Great via ferrata options too if you know where to look.

Poli_H

Joined:
28.03.2025
Posts: 2476

17.03.2026 12:55

Great suggestions so far, I'm taking notes for my own trip later this year!

Best spots for an active mountain summer vacation?

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