WTF are Walking Holidays?
Are you tired of the usual beach vacations and crowded tourist hotspots? If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, rejuvenate in nature’s embrace, and explore hidden gems at a leisurely pace, then walking holidays might just be the perfect choice for you. They combine the beauty of outdoor exploration with the joys of traveling, providing a unique and rewarding experience. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of walking holidays, highlighting their appeal, and showcasing the top five travel companies that offer these remarkable adventures.
What are Walking Holidays:
Walking holidays, as the name suggests, revolve around exploring various destinations on foot. Catering to a wide range of interests and fitness levels, making them suitable for both beginners and seasoned hikers. You can immerse yourself in breath-taking landscapes, soak up local cultures, and indulge in the tranquillity that comes from moving at your own pace. These adventures encompass a diverse array of experiences. From leisurely strolls through charming villages to challenging treks across mountain ranges, there’s something to suit every preference. Some popular types of walking holidays include:
Coastal Walks: Explore dramatic coastlines, meander along sandy shores, and revel in the refreshing sea breeze on coastal walks. From the rugged cliffs of Cornwall in the UK to the picturesque Amalfi Coast in Italy, there are stunning seaside paths waiting to be discovered.
Mountain Trails: Embark on exhilarating journeys through majestic mountain landscapes. Whether it’s the iconic peaks of the Swiss Alps or the mystical trails of the Himalayas, hiking in the mountains offers awe-inspiring vistas and a sense of accomplishment. Cultural Walks: Combine history, art, and breath-taking scenery on cultural holidays. Wander through ancient ruins, visit charming villages, and absorb the local traditions and customs. Destinations like Greece, Spain, and Japan offer fascinating cultural experiences along their scenic routes.
Walking Holidays UK:
The United Kingdom boasts captivating landscapes that are perfect for walking holidays. From the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, there’s an abundance of trails to explore.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the top five travel companies that specialise in offering extraordinary walking holidays:
Ramblers Walking Holidays:
Ramblers Walking Holidays is a well-established company that has been providing walking adventures for over 70 years. They offer a wide range of guided walking holidays in the UK, Europe, and beyond. With expert leaders and carefully crafted itineraries, Ramblers ensures that you make the most of your walking experience. They cater to different fitness levels and interests, from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes. In addition to their walking holidays, they also organise themed trips, such as wildlife-focused tours and cultural explorations.
Inghams:
Inghams Holidays is a well-known travel company that offers a wide range of holiday experiences, including walking holidays. They provide guided walks in stunning locations across Europe, with knowledgeable guides who share their expertise and passion for the outdoors. Inghams offers a variety of walking grades, allowing you to choose the level of challenge that suits you best. Whether you prefer gentle walks through meadows and vineyards or more challenging hikes in the mountains, Inghams ensures a memorable walking holiday experience.
Inntravel:
Inntravel:Inntravel is renowned for its self-guided walking holidays that focus on immersing travelers in the local culture and landscapes. They carefully select charming accommodations, often family-run hotels, guesthouses, or inns, allowing you to experience the authentic charm of each destination. Inntravel walking holidays provides detailed route notes and maps, ensuring you can explore at your own pace. Their walking holidays span across Europe, including popular destinations like Spain, Italy, and Switzerland. Additionally, Inntravel offers a variety of other travel experiences, such as cycling holidays and winter activities.
Headwater Holidays:
Headwater Holidays specializes in self-guided walking and cycling holidays, offering flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace. With Headwater, you can choose from a wide range of hand-picked routes in Europe and beyond. They provide detailed maps, route directions, and pre-booked accommodations, making your walking holiday stress-free. Headwater Holidays ensures that you uncover the hidden gems of each destination, whether it’s the picturesque landscapes of Provence or the idyllic countryside of Tuscany.
Exodus Travel:
Exodus Travel:Exodus Travel is a leading adventure travel company that offers walking holidays to various destinations worldwide. With their extensive range of walking itineraries, you can choose from leisurely coastal walks, challenging mountain treks, and immersive cultural experiences. Exodus Holidays places great emphasis on responsible travel, ensuring that their trips have a positive impact on the local communities and environments. From the breath-taking trails of the Himalayas to the stunning landscapes of South America, Exodus holidays provides unforgettable walking adventures for all levels of fitness and experience.
Walking Holidays Europe:
Europe is a treasure trove of walking holiday opportunities, with its rich history, diverse landscapes, and charming towns. Here are a couple of travel companies that excel in offering unforgettable walking adventures in Europe:
EuroTrek
EuroTrek specializes in self-guided walking holidays across Europe. They curate unique itineraries that showcase the continent’s best trails, allowing you to explore at your own pace. From the idyllic Tuscan countryside in Italy to the breath-taking fjords of Norway, EuroTrek offers an extensive range of destinations to choose from.
On Foot Holidays
On Foot Holidays focuses on providing immersive and authentic walking experiences in Europe. They carefully select picturesque routes and charming accommodations, ensuring a seamless and memorable journey. From the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands to the sun-drenched landscapes of Provence, On Foot Holidays offers a variety of destinations for nature enthusiasts and culture lovers alike.
Explore Worldwide
Explore Worldwide offers a wide range of walking holidays in Europe, catering to different fitness levels and interests. Their expertly crafted itineraries take you off the beaten path, allowing you to discover hidden gems and experience the local way of life. Whether you’re drawn to the dramatic landscapes of Iceland or the enchanting villages of the Cinque Terre in Italy, Explore Worldwide offers a diverse selection of walking adventures.
Conclusion
Overall, walking holidays provide a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with nature, immerse yourself in local cultures, and embark on rewarding adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner looking for a new experience, walking holidays offer a unique way to explore destinations at a leisurely pace. From coastal walks to mountain trails, the options are endless. With the expertise and offerings of companies like Ramblers Walking Holidays, Inntravel, Headwater Holidays, Exodus.co.uk, and Inghams, you can embark on a walking holiday that suits your preferences and aspirations. From guided tours to self-guided adventures, these companies provide exceptional experiences in captivating destinations.
So, lace up your walking shoes, pack your sense of adventure, and embark on a journey that will nourish your soul and create lasting memories. Whether you choose to wander the rugged coasts of the UK or traverse the enchanting trails of Europe, walking holidays are sure to leave you with a renewed appreciation for the beauty of the world around us. Happy trails!
Please Note: When planning a walking holiday, it’s essential to consider your fitness level, pack appropriate gear, and follow local guidelines and safety precautions.
