Spanning a whopping 42,000 kilometers, the coast of the Mediterranean Sea borders 22 countries and hundreds of islands. The European side of it, alone, is home to some of the most popular holiday destinations in the world, particularly among those who like to explore on foot.
So, what is it exactly that makes the Med so attractive? Let’s find out!
A climate made for walking
The Mediterranean climate is, quite simply, one of the most walker-friendly on the planet. The summers are long, dry and consistently sunny, while the winters are relatively short and remain quite mild, even with the rain.
Those interested in long-distance walking holidays have a generous window for comfortable hiking, especially during the shoulder months (March to May and September to late October). And, beyond heatwaves and heavy rainfall, extreme weather events like tornadoes, hurricanes, tsunamis and earthquakes are rare in the region.
Landscapes that reward every step
The variety of terrain across the Mediterranean is nothing short of remarkable. In Spain, you’ll find lush, green forests and volcanic rock formations, alongside terraced olive groves. Greece will treat you to paradise islands, like Santorini, Naxos, Corfu and Paxos, home to powdery white sands and turquoise blue waters.
Walking along the Adriatic Coast (Croatia, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina), you will be blown away by the breathtaking Dinaric Alps, plunging directly into the sea and creating hidden cave networks. Meanwhile, the isles of Malta will offer exotic clifftop walks right next to ancient temples.
So, whether you want a peaceful coastal walk or a more challenging mountain hike, the Mediterranean has it all. If you’re struggling to pick an itinerary, Orbis Ways is a travel agency specialising in long-distance walking holidays. They offer dozens of different routes across the Med, some incorporating multiple destinations in a single trip.
Fascinating history at every corner
Almost every town in the Mediterranean holds decades, if not centuries, of rich history. Some of it is obvious and widely celebrated by the local communities, while others require a bit more attention to detail. Nonetheless, history enthusiasts needn’t look far to find something fascinating.
Some of the oldest existing architecture you’ll come across date back to the Roman era, dotted around the region, but most prominent in Greece and Italy. The Medieval period has left its own unmistakable marks with Norman towers and Crusader fortresses, particularly in Croatia and Malta. The Ottomans shaped much of the Med, with Bosnia and Herzegovina often called “The Jerusalem of Europe”, while Spain holds visible remnants of its brief Muslim rule during the Middle Ages.
Diverse cultures and cuisines
While relatively small, the Mediterranean region will surprise you with its incredible diversity. Each destination has its own unique traditions and customs, which seep into the local way of life. From widely different languages to cultural differences, this region will keep you wanting more each time you visit.
Let’s not forget the food – the Mediterranean diet is world-famous for a reason. Thanks to the sea and favourable farming conditions, the region is known for its juicy fruit and veg, top-quality olive oil, aged meats and cheeses, freshly caught fish and award-winning wines. Luckily, walking will help burn the inevitable calories!
Worth every bit of hype
A walking holiday in the Mediterranean rarely stays a one-time affair. This amazing combination of climate, culture, history and landscapes makes it the perfect region that will keep you wanting more.
