Do you feel like the usual vacation routine is getting boring, and you need something different? Well, you’re not alone, and fortunately, there’s a type of vacation that has gained a lot of attention recently: walking holidays.
A vacation that’s not centered around crowded attractions but instead focuses on silent trails, the connection with nature, and inner peace, it combines physical exercise with deep immersion. This is travel that refreshes your mind and will give you that much-needed break. Let’s take a look at five amazing but overlooked trails that promise a unique getaway from the ordinary.
But before setting off on your adventure, you must know that a walking holiday involves several days of hiking, staying in different towns each day, and with this comes a set of logistics that are a bit complicated to plan. You need to book several different accommodations in advance, and transfer your main luggage, but don’t worry, there are travel agencies like Orbis Ways that focus on walking holidays. They handle all of the complicated logistics, from booking to moving your luggage each day, and a lot more.
Now, here are some of the top walking holidays:
Table of Contents
Camino de Santiago from Sarria in 7 Days
The Camino de Santiago is by far one of the most popular long-distance hikes in the entire world. It’s a connection of trails that led to Santiago de Compostela; for ages, many people and pilgrims have walked this ancient path. Its most popular route is Camino Frances, but it usually takes anything from 4 to 6 weeks to complete.
That’s why the Camino de Santiago from Sarria is by far the most popular starting point for the Camino, since it covers the last 100 kilometers, which is the exact amount needed to get the Compostela certificate, and you only need 7 days to complete it.
This part of Camino Frances takes you across the heart of Galicia in northwestern Spain, where you will pass along countryside lanes, ancient oak forests, as well as villages made out of stone and old historic bridges.
Despite being the last section of a popular Camino, it’s not an easy task, since you still need a decent level of fitness.
Rota Vicentina: The Fisherman’s Trail
Rota Vicentina is Portugal’s most popular trail; it offers everything that the country has to offer, but if you prefer ocean views, then the unique Fisherman’s Trails is for you. It’ a stunning path that takes you across the edge of the wild Atlantic coastline. The landscape here is raw and beautiful; it’s packed with cliffs and interesting rock formations. You will be able to visit vast stretches of empty beach and shifting dunes.
The trail itself often consists of walking on soft sand, which adds an extra hint to the physical challenge, but it also rewards you with stunning scenery.
Not only that, but you will also check cute fishing villages like Porto Covo or Zambujeira do Mar, where you can enjoy fresh seafood right by the water. }
West Highland Way in 9 Days
Scotland is a country packed with history and stunning landscapes; most towns and land in the country have this mysterious and ancient vibe that attracts tourists from all over the world. If you want the real and local side of this, then the West Highland Way is a must-do. It’s the country’s first official long-distance trail and takes you through the lowlands near Glasgow right into the Scottish Highlands.
The variety of landscapes is amazing. Your journey starts with a path along the shores of Loch Lomond, then you cross the vast Rannoch Moor and walk through the famous Glencoe Valley, surrounded by mountains.
A notable challenge on the route is the climb known as the “Devil’s Staircase,” which offers incredible panoramic views as a reward.
Conclusion
A walking holiday is all about connecting with yourself and the trail, it opens the door to a different style of travel, one that is active, immersive, and deeply rewarding. Whether you decide to try the Camino, the Portuguese coast, or the Scottish Highlands, there is a path waiting for you.
