Imagine waking up to breathtaking sunrises amidst majestic mountains or following charming coastal paths with the sound of waves crashing in the background. Walking holiday destinations are more than just vacations; they’re adventures that awaken your inner explorer. We’ve handpicked 10 epic walking holiday destinations around the globe, catering to both seasoned hikers and those taking their first steps on the trail. Get ready to discover hidden waterfalls, charming villages, and picture-perfect panoramas.
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Lace up your boots for 8 epic walking holiday destinations
Walking Holidays on the Amalfi Coast
While rugged terrain has its charm, sometimes a stroll through charming towns is just as enticing. The Amalfi Coast offers walking holiday destinations that blend ancient beauty with modern comfort. Picture yourself wandering from town to town, surrounded by lemon groves, with the sparkling Mediterranean Sea as your backdrop.
Indulge in delicious pasta and refreshing gelato as you explore each unique village. Take a gentle hike along the famed Path of the Gods, where breathtaking views of Positano and Praiano unfold before you. Hop on a ferry to the island of Capri for another delightful walking holiday destination. There, an easy walk leads you past Roman ruins and along dramatic coastal paths.
Adventure companies like Macs Adventure offer affordable getaways with stays in boutique hotels and manageable daily walks of seven or eight miles. So ditch the wilderness for a touch of Italian elegance on your next walking holiday!
Step Back in Time on Japan’s Essential Walking Holiday Destination
The Nakasendo Trail in Japan offers a unique walking holiday destination steeped in history and natural beauty. This ancient highway, connecting Edo (former Tokyo) to Kyoto, was once a bustling artery for all walks of life – from imperial princesses to farmers.
Walk Japan has crafted a self-guided adventure that lets you follow in their footsteps, starting from the charming town of Eno and culminating in the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo. Immerse yourself in the picture-perfect Kiso Valley, with its lush forests, tranquil rice paddies, and quaint villages that seem frozen in time.
Experience the true spirit of Japanese hospitality by staying in traditional inns along the way. This is more than just a walk; it’s a chance to connect with Japan’s rich history and discover the beauty of its walking holiday destinations.
A Gentle Stroll Through the Cotswold Round
If you’re seeking the epitome of English charm, look no further than the Cotswolds. This picturesque region, characterized by its gentle hills and honey-colored stone buildings, is an idyllic destination for a leisurely walking holiday.
The Cotswold Round, starting and ending in Moreton-in-Marsh, promises a delightful journey through some of the area’s most enchanting walking holiday destinations.
As you traverse the charming villages of Stow-on-the-Wold, Broadway, and Chipping Camden, you’ll be captivated by their timeless beauty and rich heritage.
Accessible just a quick two-hour train ride from London, the Cotswolds are an ideal choice for visitors seeking a walking holiday destination with easy access from the capital. And with accommodation options ranging from traditional farmhouses to cozy bed and breakfasts, you’ll find the perfect retreat to unwind after a day of exploration.
The Ultimate New Zealand Walking Holiday Awaits!
Are you ready for an epic challenge that will take you across multiple walking holiday destinations? Look no further than the ultimate New Zealand adventure!
This incredible journey spans both the North and South Islands, taking you from the geothermal wonders of Rotorua to the dramatic remoteness of Milford Sound and the towering peaks of Mount Cook.
Choose between a 17 or 25-night itinerary, depending on how much time you have to explore New Zealand’s magic. Witness geysers erupt and soak in natural thermal springs in Rotorua.
Navigate the awe-inspiring landscapes of Milford Sound, a fiord carved by glaciers millions of years ago. Stand beneath the shadow of majestic Mount Cook, the highest mountain in New Zealand.
For those seeking a guided experience, Ramblers Walking Holidays offers a fantastic option. With their expert leadership, you can tackle this impressive collection of walking holiday destinations with confidence.
While the accommodations are comfortable but not luxurious, the value for money is undeniable. Starting at just £6,330, you’ll get flights, accommodation, and most meals included, allowing you to focus on conquering each breathtaking destination.
Explore Ancient Bhutan on a Luxurious Walking Holiday
Bhutan, the “Land of the Thunder Dragon” is having a major travel moment, and for good reason! This majestic country, nestled in the Himalayas, offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and cultural charm.
The Ultimate Travel Company crafts unforgettable walking holiday destinations that let you experience Bhutan in style.
Their “Simply Bhutan” itinerary takes you on a four-day adventure along the Druk Path, a historic trail winding through stunning valleys under the watchful gaze of the mighty Himalayas. Leave the heavy lifting to the horses as you embark on this incredible journey.
Tread Where Gods Once Roamed: The Menalon Trail Walking Holiday in Greece
The Peloponnese, Greece’s western peninsula, beckons with a network of walking holiday destinations unlike any other. The Menalon Trail offers an unforgettable adventure perfect for those seeking a taste of Greek history and breathtaking scenery.
Legend has it that Arcadia, nestled within the Peloponnese, was once the domain of the god Pan, and now, it beckons adventurers to tread its 75-kilometer path over eight delightful days.
Starting in the charming village of Stemnitsa, the Menalon Trail winds its way along the Western Menalon massif, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and forests.
As you follow the path through the Valley of the Mylaon River, you’ll be captivated by the tranquility of the countryside and the rich history that permeates the region.
Your journey culminates in the lively town of Vytina and the picturesque village of Lagkadia, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and savor the flavors of traditional Greek cuisine. From panoramic vistas to encounters with friendly locals, every step of the Menalon Trail promises an unforgettable adventure.
Iceland’s Untamed East: A Walking Adventure Through Fire and Ice
Iceland’s dramatic landscapes have captured the imagination of travelers worldwide. But have you ever dreamt of venturing beyond the well-trodden tourist path? This eight-day adventure delves into the heart of Iceland’s wild east, a region where fire and ice collide to create a collection of unforgettable walking holiday destinations.
Your journey begins with a leisurely warm-up walk to Strútsfoss, a majestic 100-meter waterfall whose thunderous roar sets the tone for the epic adventures ahead.
From there, you’ll delve deeper into the heart of the country, ascending the snow-capped peak of Snæfell, standing tall at 1,833 meters.
At its summit, breathtaking panoramas await, showcasing the vast expanse of Vatnajökull, Iceland’s massive ice cap, and the brooding presence of Bárðarbunga, a volcano that rumbled to life in 2014.
Descend into the depths of the Jokulsa gorge before embarking on three days of coastal and ridge walks that lead you through areas steeped in Iceland’s rich mythology.
Explore Alfaborg, said to be the home of elves, though sightings may require a sip of brennivín, Icelandic potato schnapps seasoned with caraway.
Explore the Slovakian High Tatras on Foot
The Alps might be the first place that comes to mind when you dream of dramatic mountain hut-to-hut treks, but what if you crave adventure without the hefty price tag? Enter the Slovakian High Tatras, a collection of walking holiday destinations that offer stunning scenery and challenging climbs for a fraction of the cost.
To help you navigate this stunning landscape, travel companies like Slovakia Travel offer curated treks that showcase the best the High Tatras have to offer. Your journey will wind through a collection of these unforgettable walking holiday destinations.
The terrain here is no walk in the park. Expect steep climbs and rocky paths, so trekking poles are highly recommended, especially if you’re prone to sore knees. But the challenges are more than worth the reward. This adventure promises stunning panoramas, exhilarating climbs, and a true sense of accomplishment.
With each step, you’ll forge a deeper connection to the land and its storied past, making memories to last a lifetime in one of the world’s most enchanting walking holiday destinations.
