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Walking Holidays
Self-guided walking holidays
See Europe’s most scenic destinations on foot with self-guided walking trips. Wave goodbye to set itineraries and say hello to flexibility.
Designed by local experts and ideal for leisure walkers, you can choose a pace and path that suits you. Take the lead and map out your route beforehand, or go with the flow and see where you end up by following one of the many marked trails. And you can rest knowing routes have been personally tested for your safety, all while showing off the best of the area’s scenery.
Stop as much as you like for as long as you like whether you need to refuel with a picnic, want to take in your natural surroundings, or need to catch your breath.
Walking holidays for beginners & couples
Walking holidays for couples are great for those who love being surrounded by nature. Reconnect in some of the world’s most serene settings and enjoy an active holiday without the pressure to cover miles upon miles. Couples may also prefer self-guided tours and the freedom that comes with not being part of a larger group so they can really soak up that away-from-it-all feeling.
As for accommodation, you’ll find fancy spa retreats perfect for couples and close to Madeira’s lush Levada Walks. Want something more boutique? Italy’s full of traditional family-run stays, some sitting right on the shores of its most famous lakes. While some may prefer the sense of seclusion that comes with lodge-style retreats in the heart of the French and Swiss Alps.
Our walking breaks are perfect for beginners too! You don’t need any trekking experience with plenty of easy routes covering short distances. And you don’t have to walk all day every day either! Enjoy a beach break along the Amalfi Coast or stop for a coffee break in a cosy Cretan village.
Walking holiday destinations in Europe
From coastal adventures in Majorca to Levada Walks in Madeira and mountain-backed trails in the Alps, there’s tons of walking holiday destinations to choose from:
- Italy: A mixed terrain & relaxed routes from the Amalfi Coast to Dolomites and the Italian Lakes
- Madeira: Diverse landscape including the iconic Levada Walks & year-round mild temperatures
- Tenerife: Volcanic trails & sunshine all year round
- Crete: The famous Cretan Way & beautiful historic viewpoints
- Majorca: Coastal walks or mountainside stays (Sierra de Tramuntana) in Moorish villages
- Switzerland: Striking Alpine scenery & well-marked routes
- France: Ideal for all levels from Mont Blanc to Lake Annecy
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Best time to go on a walking holiday?
The best time to go on walking breaks is late spring (May) or early summer (June), particularly across Europe. Temperatures are perfect for gentle walks, you can admire the wildflowers starting to bloom, and trails are quieter. While year-round destinations like Tenerife and Madeira will be cooler in late autumn/ winter.
Not sure what to pack? It’s best to be prepared for all scenarios as you’re going to be spending a lot of time outdoors. Opt for layers such as a waterproof jacket, comfy walking shoes, lightweight trousers and thick socks. It might also be a good idea to take things like a water bottle, plasters, rucksack and a hat as some routes may have very little to no shade.
FAQs
Walking Holidays FAQs
What is a self-guided walking holiday?
A self-guided walking holiday gives you the freedom to set the pace, which means you start and stop when you want with as many breaks as you need. These holidays are great for those who like to walk independently without the help of a guide.
Are walking holidays suitable for beginners?
Yes, there are plenty of walking holidays for beginners. With clearly-marked signs, relaxed routes and flat terrain, you don’t have to be a seasoned hiker to book a walking holiday. But it’s always best to be prepared by investing in things like comfortable waterproof footwear and clothing, a first-aid kit and reliable navigation tools.
When is the best time to book a walking holiday?
The best time to book a walking holiday will depend on what it is you want from your time away and the destination you’re planning to visit.
Early spring/summer: A great time to explore Europe’s best trails with landscapes covered in spring flowers, perfect walking temperatures and fewer crowds.
Early autumn: Those intense temperatures are starting to drop, crowds are beginning to taper off and the landscape is turning a beautiful golden colour.
Winter: Madeira, the Canary Islands and Cyprus are known for their mild year-round temperatures so winter is often considered the best time for walking holidays.
How active do I need to be for a walking holiday?
Most self-guided walking holidays involve 2–3 hours of walking per day, with flat, gentle routes designed for beginners and leisure walkers. These relaxed trips don’t involve any prior training but it does help if you have a basic level of fitness.
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