Beautiful lake walks in Europe and the UK –

our expert's top tips

From well-known Lake Bled to lesser-known Lake Iseo, we feature enchanting lakeside trails linking pretty waterfront towns and charming, independent accommodation with vistas. We've walked the walks, finding trails up into the hillsides where the views over the lakes expand and the routes become quieter. In addition to captivating walks, you’ll be ideally placed for sampling the region’s gastronomy and dipping in and out of local museums and art galleries.

Our Travel Expert James talks about what it means to do a lake walk with Inntravel and how you can still explore popular destinations in an authentic way.

 

Our expert's view

"Many lakes across Europe are deservedly popular, but our holidays offer a different perspective. We take you up into the hills, where you can enjoy sweeping views over the water while escaping the crowds. You’ll see the famous places you’ve heard of – and the hidden corners you haven’t."

- James Keane, Destination Expert

See the lakes a different way

Beautifully paced days | Our routes lead you into the hills when the lakeside is at its busiest, later returning as crowds leave for the day.
Characterful stays | Each lakeside hotel is chosen for comfort, location, and warm welcome – most of which are family-run. too.
Fresh perspectives | Walk quiet hillside paths, cross the water by boat, or ride a cable car to the top of surrounding peaks for an entirely new perspective.
Your holiday, your pace | Our self-guided itineraries are designed to flexible, giving you the freedom to stop and admire the view and the space enjoy every moment.

Top picks for lake walks

Why choose an Inntravel lake walk?

We’ve spent over 40 years finding the perfect balance between lakeside charm and tranquil walking. It’s not just about where you go – it’s about when you go there.

Europe's lakes are famous for good reason: sparkling waters, charming villages, and a relaxed pace of life. But they’re also popular, which means the most beautiful spots can be busy during the day. Our lakeside walking holidays are designed to show you a different side: we take you into the surrounding hills and valleys, so you can look down on the water from peaceful trails, returning to the lakeshore in the evening, when the day-trippers have gone home and calm has returned.

  • Your days begin by the lakes, but you’ll soon be climbing into the surrounding hills, pausing at panoramic viewpoints. Lunch might be in a quiet mountain meadow, or at a small restaurant in a village most visitors never reach.

    In the afternoons, descend towards the lake as the crowds begin to thin, arriving back in time for an evening stroll along the promenade and dinner at your hotel or recommended restaurant. 

    You can enjoy: 

    - Peaceful mornings on quiet trails with panoramic views.
    - Flexible walking options, from easy lakeside paths to more challenging routes.
    - Opportunities to explore by boat, cable car, or funicular.
    - Evenings in welcoming accommodation.


    Gargnano: the Quiet Side of Lake Garda -
    Stay in a delightful lakeside town away from the bustle of Garda’s busiest resorts. Walk through lemon groves, medieval hamlets, and past Roman remains. Hop between harbour towns by ferry, and savour local specialities from lake fish to mountain cheeses.

    Lake Achensee & the Austrian Tyrol -
    Experience the Tyrol’s walking paradise, from lakeside strolls to panoramic mountain trails. Your base, Hotel Wiesenhof, offers outstanding hospitality, spa facilities, and fine cuisine. Explore by boat, cable car, or cog railway, and enjoy an easy day trip to imperial Innsbruck.

    Lake Iseo, the Jewel of Lombardy -
    Discover one of Italy’s quietest lakes. Visit Monte Isola – the largest inhabited lake island in Europe – for sweeping views. Stay at Hotel I Due Roccoli, known for its warm welcome, superb restaurant, and panoramic location. Enjoy acclaimed local wines and refined regional cuisine.

    Wherever you choose, you can expect:
    Carefully planned, self-guided routes with varied scenery and rewarding views.
    Comfortable, characterful accommodation where the welcome is genuine.
    Meals prepared with local ingredients and regional recipes.
    Luggage transfers so you can enjoy every step.
     
  • Absolutely. Our itineraries balance walking with relaxation, so you can explore lakeside towns and villages when quieter.
  • Most are graded easy-to-moderate, with options for easier or more challenging days depending on your preference and ability.
  • No you can choose to take rest days, explore nearby towns, or enjoy the hotel facilities. Customise the itinerary to suit you.
  • We arrange luggage transfers between hotels, so you only carry what you need for the day.
  • Popular lakes are busy for good reason – they’re beautiful. We’ve designed our routes so you see the sights peacefully, and discover lesser-known corners. In Hallstatt, for example: by day it’s bustling with visitors, but on our holidays you stay in the village, spending your days exploring the surrounding hills and returning in the evening, when the streets are quiet and the lake is still.

    As with all Inntravel holidays:
    • We’ve walked every step ourselves, so you can follow with confidence.
    • Our accommodation is carefully chosen for charm, comfort, and character.
    • We arrange luggage transfers and provide detailed route notes.

Find the right holiday for you

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