The Peak District has been named the second best national park in Europe in a new ranking by travel insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk.
The European National Park Index compared popular parks across the continent using criteria such as the number of hiking trails, park size, average temperatures and accommodation costs.
Hohe Tauern takes first place
Hohe Tauern National Park in Austria topped the index, praised for its vast landscapes, hiking opportunities and affordable accommodation. It is the largest park in the ranking, covering almost 1,900 square kilometres, and offers 185 hiking trails through alpine meadows, glaciers and mountain peaks.
The Peak District came second, standing out for its unrivalled choice of walking routes with more than 1,500 trails. The area is rich in history, including archaeology, prehistoric forts, Roman settlements and medieval castles.
Walks, villages and visitor attractions
Situated on the doorstep of Greater Manchester, the Peak District offers breathtaking moorland, magnificent reservoirs and quaint villages packed full of cosy pubs. Popular places to visit include Chatsworth House, often called the best stately home in England, the stepping stones in Dovedale, Bakewell, home of the tart, and the Georgian spa town of Buxton.
France's Écrins National Park ranked third, with more than 500 hiking trails and budget-friendly accommodation, along with dramatic mountain scenery, glaciers and valleys.
Rest of the top 10
The rest of the top 10 includes Jotunheimen National Park in Norway, Triglav National Park in Slovenia, Teide National Park in the Canary Islands, Saxon Switzerland National Park in Germany and Thingvellir National Park in Iceland.
Rise in nature breaks
Helen Rolph, travel insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk, said: “A rising number of holidaymakers are selecting these alternative, often considered more relaxing holidays, to help them de-stress and switch off.
“Europe is home to some of the world's most spectacular national parks, giving holidaymakers the chance to get back to nature with trails ideal for hiking. We've created the 2026 European National Park Index to help outdoor enthusiasts choose destinations that offer the best all-round experience.
“The UK's Peak District performed well, ranking second thanks to its unrivalled network of more than 1,500 hiking trails and some of the most affordable accommodation in the index.”
