When it comes to trekking holidays in Europe, the French Alps often steal the spotlight. However, for those seeking something a little different and off-the-beaten-track, there are a number of other mountain ranges that deserve attention. From the dramatic peaks of Slovenia's Julian Alps to the remote wilderness of Georgia's Caucasus Mountains, these lesser-known ranges offer fantastic walking and trekking holidays for all levels of experience. Read on to find your unique adventure.

The Julian Alps stretch from north-eastern Italy to Slovenia and offer some of Europe’s most breathtaking and untouched trekking trails. The majority of the range lies within the incredible Triglav National Park, with Mount Triglav, Slovenia’s highest peak at 2,863m, standing as its centrepiece. Those looking for a challenging trekking holiday and have a head for heights can tackle thrilling Via Ferrata routes and alpine scrambling to reach this iconic summit. Those seeking a more leisurely walking holiday can enjoy the stunning alpine walks surrounding the picture-perfect Lake Bled.

Albania’s breathtaking Accursed Mountains boast stunning alpine landscapes and an abundance of wildlife, including lynx, chamois and golden eagles. Known as the "Land of Smiles," Albania is a country where rich traditions are deeply cherished and its welcoming people take pride in sharing their culture with visitors. A walking holiday in Albania offers a rare opportunity to step back in time and immerse yourself in stunning natural beauty, distinctive local culture and of course, the warmest smiles in Europe.

The Transylvanian Alps, also known as the Southern Carpathians, are a stunning mountain range stretching across Romania, offering you incredible off-the-beaten-path hut-to-hut trekking, particularly on the route to the summit of Romania’s highest peak, Moldoveanu (2,544m). You’ll experience some of Europe’s most untamed landscapes, with the chance to spot wildlife such as chamois, marmots and soaring raptors. The Transylvanian Alps are steeped in history and legend, with dramatic castles, medieval villages and tales of Dracula adding a unique cultural element to a walking holiday in Romania.

Straddling the border between Poland and Slovakia, the magnificent High Tatras are the tallest section of the Carpathian Mountains, offering a true wilderness setting for an unforgettable trekking holiday. This hidden gem of Europe is home to a striking alpine landscape, featuring Poland’s highest peak, Mount Rysy at 2,503m, the stunning Polish Five Lakes Valley and the breathtaking Rusinowa Meadow, which offers a panoramic view of the Tatras. A walking holiday in the High Tatras Mountains allows you to connect with both the serene wilderness and the region’s deep cultural heritage, making it a truly unforgettable destination.

East of the Black Sea and framed by the towering Caucasus Mountains, Georgia is one of Europe’s most exciting trekking destinations. Dominated by Mount Kazbek (5,047m), the region is home to remote landscapes, from the open ridges and flower-filled pastures of the Abudulauri, Barbalo and Khidotani passes to the steep, forested valleys of the Khevsureti Range. Trekking in Georgia takes you off-the-beaten-path to medieval villages cut off by snow for half the year, along with ancient shrines and hidden churches that offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich history.

The Taurus Mountains in southern Turkey are home to the mighty Mount Emler (3,723m) which offers a unique opportunity to summit a peak that is truly off-the-beaten-track. The region also boasts the stunning Aladağlar Mountains, surrounded by alpine lakes and deep valleys, providing a serene escape into nature. The spectacular Yedigöller Plateau, with its picturesque scenery, offers a chance to camp under the stars and meet nomadic Turkish shepherds, immersing yourself in their timeless way of life: a true highlight of a walking holiday in the Taurus Mountains.