For business travellers seeking more than boardrooms and boutique lounges, Europe’s islands are emerging as unexpected havens of wellness, adventure, and strategic escape.
According to a new study by Island Hopping, hiking tourism in Europe now accounts for over 35% of the global market—a clear signal that professionals are pairing productivity with purposeful downtime.
The study, which assessed over 20 European islands, ranked destinations based on trail quality, safety, climate, accessibility, and accommodation costs. The result is a curated list of islands where business travellers can recharge, reflect, and reconnect with nature—without compromising on comfort or connectivity.
At the top of the list is Mallorca, Spain, offering 500 trails with an average rating of 4.6 stars. With moderate difficulty and two-hour peak times, it’s ideal for early morning hikes before meetings or sunset walks after a long day. The island’s climate and safety scores make it especially appealing for solo travellers or small executive groups.
Crete, Greece, follows closely, with equally vast trail options and the highest average trail rating at 4.7 stars. It’s also the most cost-effective, with nightly stays averaging just $106. For business travellers who prefer a challenge, Crete’s trails lean toward “hard” difficulty and longer distances—perfect for those who want to push both body and mind.
Sicily, Italy, ranks third, combining affordability with cultural richness. With 500 trails and a strong online following, it’s a destination that blends heritage with high-altitude views. Trails like Rocca di Cefalù are popular among hikers and history lovers alike.
Madeira, Portugal, offers a more rugged experience, with trails averaging three hours and a climate index of 97—the best among all islands surveyed. Its safety score and dramatic landscapes make it ideal for executives seeking solitude and inspiration.
Sardinia, Italy, rounds out the top five, with 363 trails and moderate difficulty ratings. Routes like Cala Luna and Ziu Santoru Beach are scenic yet accessible, offering a quick nature fix between client calls or team retreats.
Other standout destinations include Texel in the Netherlands, noted for its safety and beginner-friendly routes, and Santorini, Greece, which boasts the highest-rated trails overall. With 4.8-star paths and nearly 7.5 million online searches, Santorini is a rising star for wellness-focused professionals.
As Island Hopping’s spokesperson notes, “Hiking has become one of Europe’s fastest-growing travel trends, with more visitors seeking authentic, nature-focused experiences.” For business travellers, these islands offer more than scenic views—they’re spaces to reset, strategize, and return sharper than ever.