10 Places of Worship for Nature Lovers and Hikers in Europe

This incredible 14th century church is perched on the top of Mount Lussari, 1789m above sea level, where Italy, Slovenia and Austria meet in the Alps. Legend has it that the Virgin Mary appeared on this site and this inspired the construction of the church.

The 16th century Prodromos Monastery is nestled in the cliffs of the Lussius Ravine, part of the mountainous Arcadia region. A 20 minute walk along a cliffside path leads to this extraordinary hidden gem.

A few kilometers from the largest fjord in Norway, in a lush green valley, Borgund Stave Church, built in the 12th century, allows visitors to experience wonderful countryside walks with unique Norwegian architecture and history.

A unique and magnificent experience: the caves of the Orheiul Vechi monastery in Moldova contain ancient places of worship and prayer dating back to the 13th century. Moreover, the religious complex is located in a unique prehistoric and natural site containing remains from all periods of Moldova's turbulent history.

Found on top of Croagh Patrick Mountain, also known as the Reek, this Calvary church has stunning views over the surrounding landscape. The mountain itself has both a Pagan and Christian history, and is climbed by pilgrims each year on Reek Sunday (the last Sunday in July).

Found on the island of Viðoy, Viðareiði church is surrounded by excellent hiking trails and some of the most inspiring scenery in the entire Faroe Islands. Built in the 19th century, this small whitewashed church is famous for having welcomed the survivors of the English brig "Marwood" in 1847.

Among the ruins of the Arthurian castle of Tintagel in Cornwall, this small chapel dedicated to the unusual St Hulanus or Ulette, was probably built before the medieval castle. Constructed on top of the ruins of the Dark Age settlement, the chapel enjoys a breathtaking view of the steep, typically Cornish surroundings.

Located at an altitude of 2473m, the hospice of the Grand Saint-Bernard is the highest site on our list. This mythical hospice, which made the Saint-Bernard dog famous, was founded in the 11th century and has kept its tradition of welcoming travellers.

Agios Nikolaos Tis Stegis is one of many medieval monasteries in the Troodos Mountains of Cyprus. Built at the beginning of the 11th century, its fresh interior, full of frescoes dating from the 6th century, is a welcome stopover for hikers.

Located in Zakopane, the "winter capital of Poland", the chapel of Jaszczurówka, built in 1904, is a typical example of the local Goral style. As an integral part of Tatra National Park, the chapel is the starting point for many trails.