Walking Holidays

There is a growing trend in the travel market for more active and adventurous holidays, this month Lisa de Silva explores the rise in popularity of walking holidays 

Not only do walking holidays offer an immersive travel experience, but they are also eco-friendly, healthy and flexible, making it easy to explain why walking tourism is surging in popularity.

WHAT IS A WALKING HOLIDAY? 

Quite simply a walking holiday places walking at the heart of a trip. This could involve anything from gentle strolls between rural villagesto full-day hikes along coastal paths, meandering across nature reserves, or trekking through spectacular mountain passes. 

How the trip is structured is a matter of personal choice. Some trips are linear point-to-point journeys, where travellers move from one accommodation to another each night, while others are centre-based, where you stay in a single location and explore the region on daily walking excursions. What’s more, walking holidays can either be guided or self-guided and are suitable for solo travellers, couples, or groups. 

THE BENEFITS OF A WALKING HOLIDAY

One of the top reasons people choose walking holidays is for wellbeing. Spending time in nature helps reduce stress and improves mental health. Physical health also benefits through improved stamina, cardiovascular fitness and strength. Walking holidays are also cost-effective and provide the flexibility to choose your own pace, terrain, destination and length of trip. 

PLANNING A WALKING HOLIDAY 

Planning is essential to ensure your walking holiday is enjoyable and comfortable. First, consider your walking pace and levels of endurance. Most moderately fit people can comfortably walk for four to five hours a day on flat terrain, but steeper or more uneven routes will naturally slow your pace. Assess your fitness level and train beforehand if needed, especially if your itinerary involves walking several days in a row. A little preparation can go a long way. 

Footwear is crucial. Invest in a good pair of walking boots suited to the terrain and make sure they’re broken in before your trip. Blisters and sore feet can quickly ruin a holiday. Clothing should be appropriate for the season and weather conditions, and don’t forget waterproofs in case of rain. 

Other considerations include luggage transfers (so you don’t have to carry heavy bags), accommodation and route planning. Many companies offer guided or self-guided packages that include all logistics, but you can also plan independently. If you’re going it alone, local taxi companies will often provide luggage transfer services. 

TYPES OF WALKING HOLIDAY 

There are endless destinations for a linear walking holiday. Popular locations in the UK include the Yorkshire Dales, Scottish Highlands and the Southwest Coastal Path. These scenic point-to-point routes offer a mix of coastal views, countryside landscapes and historic landmarks. While internationally famed pilgrimage routes like the Camino de Santiago in Spain or the Pilgrim’s Way in Kent, attract walkers seeking both spiritual reflection and adventure. 

Further afield, walking safaris in Zambia and Tanzania are growing in popularity. These involve trekking and tracking the wildlife alongside an expert and experienced guide, as you walk from camp to camp. 

Alternatively, centre-based walking holidays are ideal for those who prefer not to pack and unpack each night. You might stay in a charming hotel in rural France, a mountain lodge in the Rockies, or a traditional house in Morocco’s Rif Mountains, venturing out on different walks each day. 

WALKING THE SOUTH DOWNS WAY 

Here in Southeast England, we are lucky to have the South Downs Way on our doorstep. This 100-mile (160km) linear route runs from Winchester to Eastbourne and lies entirely within the South Downs National Park. It is well marked and a wonderful opportunity to experience the rural beauty and wildlife of our region. 

Ideal for short walks, day hikes and short break walking, it’s suitable for all fitness levels and while experienced hikers could walk it in around 5-6 days, most people will need 7-10 days to complete the journey. Along the way, walkers enjoy landscapes that include rolling green hills, ancient woodlands, wildflower meadows, pretty villages and picturesque coastal scenery. 

Sites of historic interest include the Iron Age hill forts of Chanctonbury Ring and Old Winchester Hill, but the highlight for many is the chalk cliffs of Seven Sisters and Beachy Head, one of England’s most famous and iconic stretches of coastline. 

So, whether you want to recharge in nature, improve your fitness, or experience a destination in a truly meaningful way, a walking holiday offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and discovery. All you need is a good pair of boots and a sense of adventure.