Blog home / The 26 Best Walking Holidays in 2026
Walking holidays continue to captivate travellers looking for an immersive experience, offering an unmatched connection to landscapes and cultures across the globe.
Our list of the top 26 walking trips for 2026 covers a spectrum of trails, combining scenic beauty with cultural richness, and ideal for both seasoned hikers and beginners looking for their first walking holiday.
Whether you’re planning a solo escape,
a guided group trek, or a
self-guided experience with all the flexibility you desire, get ready to be inspired by the destinations that promise to make 2026 your most extraordinary year for walking holidays yet.
The South West Coast Path, England’s longest National Trail, is a dream destination for walkers looking to experience the UK’s most dramatic coastal scenery.
Stretching 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset, it offers unparalleled flexibility - perfect for those wanting to explore one section at a time. Whether it’s the rugged cliffs between Padstow and St Ives, the serene shores from Penzance to Mevagissey, or the varied landscapes of Minehead to Westward Ho!, each stretch reveals unique beauty.
With so many options, the South West Coast Path lets walkers tailor their adventure to fit their time, pace, and preferred scenery, making it an exceptional choice for coastal exploration in 2026.
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This scenic trail runs from Ulverston to Carlisle, crossing paths with some of the UK's other famous routes, including parts of the Coast to Coast, Hadrian’s Wall Path, and Windermere Way. Walkers on the Cumbria Way can experience the highlights of the Lakes, from lush valleys and towering peaks to shimmering lakesides and charming villages. With its varied terrain and classic views, the Cumbria Way offers an unbeatable introduction to one of England’s most beloved national parks.
This walk offers a delicious introduction to the
Lake District’s classic landscapes, combining gentle lakeshore paths, wooded valleys and sweeping fells. It’s an ideal first step into one of England’s most beloved national parks, with scenery that changes beautifully from dawn to dusk.
Covering charming villages, quiet country lanes and iconic viewpoints, the route lets you soak up both the peacefulness of the lakes and the more dramatic high ground. Expect reflections on still water, stone bridges and the patchwork of fields that give the region its timeless appeal.
Perfect for walkers who want variety without overly challenging terrain, this trip pairs invigorating days on foot with cosy pubs and local cuisine in the evenings, making it a memorable way to experience the heart of the Lakes.
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Hadrian's Wall Walk is a historic trek across Northern England, and it has recently taken on new significance with the loss of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree - a beloved landmark along the route, felled in 2023.
This ancient tree was an emblem of the trail’s rugged beauty, inspiring countless hikers and photographers over the years. Now, a project called '
Trees of Hope' is keeping its legacy alive by distributing 49 saplings grown from the Sycamore Gap tree to communities around the country. Walking Hadrian's Wall next year offers a unique chance to experience this powerful landscape and reflect on the ongoing story of one of Britain’s most famous trees.
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Our hike along the
Vermillion Coast offers a unique adventure over the French-Spanish border, taking you from French Catalunya to Spanish Catalonia along one of the Mediterranean’s most stunning coastal trails.
Known for its dramatic cliffs, charming seaside villages, and sunny vineyards, this area is a favorite getaway for French travelers seeking beauty and tranquility without the high prices of other Riviera destinations. This route combines cultural richness with incredible sea views, making it an ideal choice for those who want a more affordable yet unforgettable Mediterranean experience.
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This 52-mile circular trail celebrates the countryside that inspired the beloved vet’s stories, guiding walkers through some of England’s most charming and rugged landscapes. Starting and ending in Aysgarth, the route passes through iconic Dales villages, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys, with highlights including Askrigg, Hawes, and the tranquil beauty of Swaledale.
The
Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is one of the world’s most celebrated alpine treks, and it’s easy to see why this classic loop belongs on any 2026 walking list.
Circling the Mont Blanc massif, the TMB takes walkers through France, Italy, and Switzerland, offering unrivaled views of soaring peaks, lush valleys, and charming mountain villages. While this trail is known for its rugged beauty, we add an extra touch of comfort and privacy by offering private hotel rooms along the route, so you can end each day with a restful night in your own cozy space. For walkers seeking a perfect blend of alpine hiking and relaxation, the TMB is an unforgettable choice.
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The Chestnut Trail (Keschtnweg) in South Tyrol is an exceptional choice for 2026, offering a taste of Alpine beauty while overlooking the iconic Dolomites.
This picturesque trail winds through chestnut groves, vineyards, and quaint villages from the Isarco Valley to Bolzano, offering walkers an enchanting blend of nature and culture. With the excitement building for the 2026 Winter Olympics in nearby Milan, the entire region is coming alive, making it the perfect time to explore this stunning area. The Chestnut Trail is a delight for any walker interested in scenic landscapes, traditional Tyrolean hospitality, and a relaxed pace that allows for full immersion in the Alpine charm.
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Along the way, walkers experience the tranquil shores of Loch Lomond, the sweeping wilderness of Rannoch Moor, and the rugged beauty of Glen Coe. With stunning scenery, well-marked paths, and an incredible sense of solitude, the West Highland Way combines challenging terrains with rewarding vistas, making it an essential adventure for anyone seeking the spirit of Scotland on foot.
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Madeira’s stunning landscapes and mild climate make it a top pick for walkers in 2026, and its recent title as Europe’s Leading Island Destination in 2024 cements its place as a must-visit.
This lush
Portuguese island is famous for its diverse hiking trails, including levadas (historic irrigation channels) that lead you through verdant forests, alongside cascading waterfalls, and up to panoramic viewpoints over the Atlantic.
The Cotswold Way is a must-do in 2026, renowned for its rolling hills, historic landmarks, and quintessentially English countryside.
Stretching 102 miles from Chipping Campden to Bath, this National Trail takes walkers through charming villages, past ancient stone walls, and along ridgelines with sweeping views. New for this year, we’re thrilled to offer the
Cotswolds Passport in partnership with the Cotswold Way Association, providing travellers with a unique way to collect stamps from key points along the trail. This passport makes for a memorable keepsake and a rewarding way to track your journey through one of England's most scenic regions.
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The Coast to Coast deserves a top spot on any 2026 walking bucket list, especially with its new designation as a National Trail. Spanning nearly 200 miles from St. Bees on the Irish Sea to Robin Hood's Bay on the North Sea, this iconic route takes walkers through the diverse landscapes of the
Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, and North York Moors.
With breathtaking scenery, charming villages, and a blend of challenging and accessible sections, the Coast to Coast offers a uniquely British walking experience that’s perfect for anyone seeking both adventure and natural beauty. Its new National Trail status will ensure even better maintenance and amenities, making it an ideal choice for a memorable walking holiday in 2026.
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Known for its rugged beauty and challenging terrain, the Pennine Way spans the "backbone of England" and boasts a combined elevation gain equivalent to climbing Mount Everest, making it one of our more demanding walks.
The Fife Coastal Path stretches for miles along Scotland’s picturesque east coast, offering an unforgettable mix of dramatic cliffs, sandy bays and wide sea views. This celebrated long-distance route lets walkers experience the changing moods of the Firth of Forth, from open ocean horizons to peaceful coves.
The path weaves through charming fishing villages and historic harbours, passing old castles, sculpted dunes and rolling green countryside. With constant visual variety, each day’s walk brings fresh scenery and plenty of opportunities to spot seabirds, seals and colourful coastal flora.
Ideal for those who love walking by the water, the
Fife Coastal Path combines invigorating days on foot with time to savour local seafood, explore friendly towns and soak up the culture and stories of Scotland’s scenic coast.
The Haute Route through
Switzerland’s Valais region, beginning in the renowned climbing village of Arolla, is an exceptional journey for those seeking quiet beauty in 2026.
Starting in Arolla allows hikers to dive right into the heart of the Alps, traversing less-trodden trails with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and glacial valleys.
This serene route is ideal for nature lovers, offering the chance to encounter vibrant Alpine wildflowers and spot native wildlife such as ibex and chamois. If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic adventure, the Haute Route from Arolla is an unforgettable choice.
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Walking in Tenerife offers a unique chance to explore not only the island's striking landscapes but also its rare black sand volcanic beaches, surrounded by lush green cliffs and thriving banana plantations.
These dramatic beaches, set against the rugged coastline, provide a stunning contrast to the island’s more typical Mediterranean vistas. As you walk historic trade trails and take in views of Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, you’ll also experience the rich flavors of Canarian cuisine, blending Spanish and African influences.
The Dales Way is an excellent choice for 2026, offering the perfect balance of accessibility and natural beauty. With the ongoing growth for outdoor activities and sustainable travel, this trail allows you to immerse yourself in the peaceful landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District without the crowds.
By walking the 78-mile route in 2026, you’ll experience the tranquility of
the Pennines in its prime, with picturesque views, serene rivers, and charming villages awaiting you at every turn. It's the perfect time to enjoy this less-travelled route before it gains even more popularity.
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From our dreamy base in Le Lavandou, each day is filled with sunlit hikes around the Golden Isles, Porquerolles, Port-Cros, and Île du Levant, renowned for their crystalline waters and untouched landscapes. Made famous by painters and film stars, this region epitomizes the height of refined living, blending vibrant natural beauty with a luxurious atmosphere.
For those seeking a radiant, culture-rich escape, this walking holiday offers an idyllic, unforgettable experience along the Côte d'Azur.
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Our Walking in the
Dordogne trip is a top choice for 2026, offering travelers a chance to experience France's most enchanting culinary and historical region.
With both
10-day and
8-day options, this circuit takes you from Meyssac to Sarrazac, winding through medieval villages, lush vineyards, and rolling countryside. Known as the land of truffles, foie gras, magret de canard, and deep, rich wines, the Dordogne is a paradise for food lovers.
Each day’s walk unveils new flavors, rustic markets, and stunning scenery, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a blend of French heritage, culture, and natural beauty.
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La Gomera is a hidden gem in the Canary Islands, ideal for those seeking natural beauty and cultural authenticity.
Unlike its bustling neighbors, La Gomera has been spared the rapid development seen elsewhere, so there are no hordes of tourists - only serene landscapes dotted with old-world homesteads and lush banana plantations. This island is home to the rare laurisilva forests, filled with ancient trees and misty green trails, and a unique whistling language called 'Silbo'.
Our Dolomites Walking Holiday offers not only an unforgettable adventure but also a meaningful choice for eco-conscious travellers.
Slow travel walking holidays like this have a lower environmental impact, allowing you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings with minimal footprint. In the Dolomites, this journey has special significance: Marmolada, known as the Queen of the Dolomites, is rapidly receding due to global warming and could disappear by 2040. Over the past five years alone, 70 hectares of glacier have vanished.
By choosing a slower, more sustainable way to experience these mountains, hikers can appreciate the Dolomites’ beauty and fragility, making each step a tribute to preserving this extraordinary landscape for future generations.
The
Amalfi Coast Walking Holiday is an especially enticing choice for 2026, as the region is anticipated to be vibrant with renewed energy and visitor-friendly enhancements. By visiting now, hikers can enjoy the trails and sites before the crowds peak in coming seasons.
Walking the Path of the Gods in 2026 offers a rare chance to experience the coast’s timeless charm, explore the ruins of Pompeii or the ancient Villa of Pollio, and stroll through iconic towns like Positano and Sorrento. It’s the perfect year to soak up the rich history, beauty, and tranquility of Italy’s most breathtaking coastline.
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Set on Ireland’s far-flung Atlantic edge, the Exploring the Dingle Way walk showcases the raw beauty of the Dingle Peninsula, where rugged coastline, sweeping beaches and rolling green hills meet the open ocean.
This self-guided route follows some of the most scenic sections of the Dingle Way, with unforgettable views towards the Blasket Islands, quiet country lanes and cliff-top paths shaped by wind and weather. Along the way, lively villages and welcoming pubs offer a warm introduction to local life.
Rich in Gaelic culture, traditional music and coastal charm, the Dingle Peninsula is a place that lingers long after the walk is over, making it a standout choice for walkers dreaming of Ireland in 2026.
The Great Glen Way offers an unforgettable Scottish holiday for 2026, leading walkers through some of the Highlands' most iconic landscapes. Our route takes you along the tranquil shores of Loch Ness, where you’ll enjoy sweeping water views and maybe even spot the fabled Loch Ness Monster.
You’ll also pass by the foot of Ben Nevis, the UK’s tallest mountain, with its impressive silhouette against the rugged Highland backdrop. This journey blends natural beauty, legend, and history, making it a
perfect choice for walkers seeking a scenic and culturally rich experience in Scotland.
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Norway’s Fjordland is a breathtaking destination, and our summer-only walking trip offers an ideal way to experience it at its best. Starting in Geilo, this journey takes you through lush valleys, alongside dramatic fjords, and on the famous Flåm Railway - a scenic ride that winds through some of Norway’s most stunning landscapes.
Often called 'Scotland in miniature', the Isle of Arran delivers a full Highland experience in just over a week of walking. This self-guided circuit takes you around the island’s coast – a varied mix of wild beaches, castle ruins, granite peaks, and friendly local pubs.
It’s a trail where you might spot seals one day, golden eagles the next, with quiet paths leading you through ever-changing scenery. Compact yet surprisingly diverse, the Isle of Arran Coastal Way is ideal for walkers looking for a rewarding island escape without straying too far from home.
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Wherever you choose to walk in 2026, whether it’s through the lush valleys of the Lake District, the sun-drenched coasts of the Amalfi, or the rugged trails of the Pennines, our itineraries are designed to bring you the best of each destination - without the stress of planning.
From tailored accommodations to detailed route guidance, we make it easy for you to focus on the journey and enjoy every step of the adventure.
Let us take care of the details so you can immerse yourself in the landscapes, history, and culture that make each walk a truly memorable experience. Here’s to making 2026 your best walking year yet!