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If you've been trying to book a self-guided hiking tour — especially the Tour du Mont Blanc, or Alta Via 1 — you might have noticed... most spots sold out fast!

But that doesn’t mean your hiking goals are on hold for the year. We’ve got incredible alternatives with equally stunning views, authentic charm, and fewer crowds.

Here’s your hiker-approved Plan B list— all Grade A adventures, just with fewer crowds and more availability:

🟢 Love alpine adventures? Try:

  • Gran Paradiso Traverse – Hike in Italy’s first national park and a hidden gem near the TMB.

    I've been spending time in nearby Turin and locals have been begging me not to share how fantastic it is. I'll be spending a LOT of time there this summer. Can't wait!

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Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy

🏔️ Craving Italy's Dolomites drama?

  • Seiser Alm to Rosengarten – rolling meadows + dramatic peaks
  • Val Gardena & Alpe di Siusi – picture-perfect trails and charming villages

Plus, both of the above Dolomites trips are just 5 days, so you'll have extra time to explore Italy, and not just hike.

💡 PRO TIP:If you’re flexible on when you hike, May and fall offer better availability, gorgeous weather, fewer hikers.

Not to mention, that they're also often less expensive than hiking tours offered in peak season - not to mention that flights are also often cheaper. Spain and Ireland deliver!

  • Spanish Pyrenees – wild, rugged, and ridiculously photogenic
  • Mountains of Catalonia (Spain) – peaceful trails + Catalan culture
  • Alpujarras & Sierra Nevada (Granada, Spain) – hike between white villages and olive groves
  • Wicklow Way (Ireland) – lush green landscapes, rolling hills, and charming Irish villages

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Spanish Pyrenees

🎒 Final Tip Before You Hit the Trail (or the Book Now Button):

Be flexible - the best adventures often come from Plan B. If you’re not sure which hike is right for you, just hit reply — we love helping you find your perfect trail match.

I'm adapting this to myself, as I'm unexpectedly spending 2.5 months in Cyprus, so am embracing the change from the Alps to hikes with sea views.

👉 See All Our Hiking Tours »

Happy hiking,

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Laurel Robbins, founder Monkeys and Mountains


Founder, Monkeys and Mountains Hiking and Adventures