The last hazy weeks of summer might be stretching out ahead of us, but that doesn’t mean that the season of travel is over. Here at Vegan Adventure Holidays, I’m still daydreaming of expeditions here, there, and everywhere – with so many epic European destinations calling my name, fingers crossed I’ll make it back to Europe again later this year.
To help you squeeze those last few drops of vitamin D out of the year, I’ve listed five insanely cool places in Europe that offer sun, sea, and mountains – plus an awesome vegan food scene!
1: Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a city that dances to the beat of its own drum. It’s not like many other European capitals, which can so often have an anonymous, cookie-cutter feel. In Lisbon, you’ll soak up relaxed vibes and wander through a kaleidoscope of colour, with its iconic yellow trams idling by and layers of pastel houses.
One of the best things about Lisbon is its plant-based scene. The city is scattered with incredible vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants, so get out there and munch away – you won’t go hungry!
Its abundant vegan food scene makes Lisbon the perfect choice for a city break, but it’s also a prime base for adventure travellers. Hike the lush trails of the Sintra Mountains, go surfing in laid-back Ericeira, or bike the slopes of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park – you’ll end every day with a buzz in this awesome Portuguese gem.
2: Malaga, Spain
Sangria. Salty olives. Blistered tomatoes. Fresh-from-the-tree custard apples. Make Spain’s Andalusia region your haven this autumn, with the sunshine coasts of Málaga as the ultimate place to park up.
Whatever appeals to your adventurous side, you’ll find it just a short drive away. Watch the Mediterranean glisten from the peak of La Concha, cast your eyes across never-ending landscapes on El Caminito del Rey, or snorkel to your heart’s content.
With the temperatures cooling and the summer crowds dissipating, Málaga in the autumn is oh-so-sweet. Plus, there’s a great vegan food scene here – cook with locally sourced produce at home, or graze on plant-based tapas with newfound friends!
3: Bohinj, Slovenia
If you’re searching for roads less travelled this autumn, you’ll fall in love with Slovenia – a real hidden gem that’s often overlooked in favour of nearby Austria and Croatia. But whether you fancy swimming in the azure waters of Croatia, or embarking on alpine hikes in Austria, just know that Slovenia’s Bohinj offers the best of both worlds.
This part of Slovenia does get slightly wetter in autumn, but the payoff is worth it; as summer ends, the foliage-ringed Lake Bohinj and surrounding Triglav National Park become ablaze with gold and copper tones. Listen out for waterfalls as you explore the forest, spend lazy days kayaking across the lake, or head up to Vogel Ski Resort before the season kicks off for panoramic views!
The nearby town of Bled seems to be slightly more vegan-friendly, but if you’re looking for accommodation in Bohinj itself, Sunrose 7 promises vegetarian and vegan dishes at its restaurant. Don’t forget to double-check before you book!
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4: LMethana, Greece
Here at Vegan Adventure Holidays, I love to find destinations that feel a little off the beaten path. Methana, a Greek paradise on the Peloponnese peninsula, is now firmly on my travel bucket list for this very reason. It’s a few hours from Athens by car – but what an invitation to road trip!
Finding vegan-friendly places here could be slightly more challenging, so you might want to book self-catered accommodation and cook from home. I also daydream of booking a vegan culinary experience with Kristóf and Nimi, who live and work in Methana with their cats!
If you’re looking for adventure, you’ll find it in this volcanic town. Swim in the brilliant blue of the Saronic Gulf, hire a boat to view the peninsula’s beauty from the ocean, or hike the trails of Methana Volcano – every moment will blow you away.
5: Split, Croatia
Croatia is quickly becoming a summertime hotspot, but as the mid-year rush slows down, it’s also an idyllic destination for an autumnal adventure. Plus, you’ll discover a healthy dose of vegan-friendly restaurants in the town and by the coast. That’s alongside farmers’ markets fit to burst with fresh fruits and veggies!
So, grab an oat milk latte, pull on a pair of vegan walking sandals, and get set to explore. Split isn’t just a gateway to the Dalmation Islands, but also an epic base to discover the wild and wonderful landscapes nearby.
From Krka National Park to Mount Mosor, you’ll be just a stone’s throw from exhilarating trails, stunning lakes, and dip-worthy waterfall pools!
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Vegan Adventure Holidays: Incredible experiences for adventurous vegans
Has the wanderlust kicked in yet? I hope so! If you’re ready to plan a trip that really appeals to your adventurous side then watch this space for new trips & travel guides being released this Autumn.
XO
Emma – Vegan Adventure Holidays
