Quiet as a feature
Some hikers want the famous trail. Others want the empty one. Both are valid. This guide is for the second kind.
Quiet hiking destinations tend to be in countries that get fewer visitors generally, or in regions of well-known countries that the guidebooks skip, or simply on routes that the marketing has not yet found.
Quieter places to walk
The Mercantour in southern France, despite being a national park, is far quieter than the Alps further north.
Northern Albania's Accursed Mountains have a small but reliable infrastructure of guesthouses connected by walking routes between villages.
Eastern Türkiye has long quiet ranges with rough trails and friendly small towns.
Tasmania's southwest, accessible only by serious multi-day walks or charter flight, is among the quieter wilderness destinations in the developed world.
Why these places are still quiet
Some are quiet because of perception. They are seen as too remote, too difficult, too unknown.
Some are quiet because the infrastructure is genuinely limited. Fewer beds, less signage, more self-sufficiency required.
Both are worth respecting. Don't expect the polish of a Swiss valley.
Travelling with low impact
Quiet places stay quiet when visitors respect them. Camp where camping is permitted. Pack out everything. Don't post the exact GPS coordinates of fragile places.
Stay in local guesthouses to keep tourism economically viable for small communities.
Travel tips
- → Carry a paper map and a GPS as backup
- → Stay in local guesthouses
- → Pack out everything you bring in
- → Avoid posting precise GPS coordinates of fragile places
Best season
Late spring through early autumn for most temperate quiet regions.
How to get there
Regional flight, bus or train, then local transport to the trailhead.
What to expect
Few other walkers, variable trail signage, basic accommodation, dramatic landscapes.
Frequently asked questions
Is solo travel safe?
In most quiet hiking destinations yes, with normal precautions and someone informed of your plan.
Cell coverage?
Often limited. Carry satellite communication on multi-day routes.
Cost?
Often less than famous trails, both for accommodation and food.
