You may have noticed that a Walking Holiday has been gaining in popularity in the past few years. So why should you go on this type of vacation?
Seven reasons you should consider a Walking Holiday
A variety of destinations – a walking holiday can be close to home on the trails in the forests of a nearby National State or Provincial Park. Or you can make your walking holiday ever more exciting by visiting another country, continents away. You can hike the rolling countryside of England, through the forests of the Appalachian Trail, into the mountains of the Canadian Rockies or even New Zealand. You can see nature and perhaps some wildlife at it’s finest anywhere in the world.
Active vacation – with a walking holiday you will get lots of exercise and fresh air. The physical demands will vary depending on the length and the terrain of the trails you pick.
Cost – necessary equipment starts with a pair of hiking boots and a backpack. Other hiking gear can include hiking poles and specialized clothing to make your journey along the trails even more enjoyable.
The price of the hike itself will vary depending on the length, transportation and accommodation of your chosen destination. You can have an inexpensive weekend hiking a trail in a nearby park and staying in a campground or a guided tour in the Dolomites with accommodation in a great hotel which captures the local essence.
Be adventurous – you can take a one week adventure along Vancouver Islands rugged West Coast Trail or a more simple walk in the Cotswold’s of England stopping for lunch at a pub or tea room. What is an adventure for one person can be easy for another, however do try something new to you.
One excellent reference is the book Fifty Places to Hike Before you Die.
Self guided or with a walking holiday travel company – there are adventure travel companies that specialize in walking holidays arranged with experienced guides, accommodation and providing local knowledge of the trails. It is also easy to purchase a guidebook to plan your own hike and accommodation should you wish. You may also wish to check out my experiences with one operator, HF Holidays.
People – walking holidays are suitable for families, groups of friends or singles. If traveling solo many travel companies can find a roommate to keep the prices low. Whether you do this or head out on your own you will meet people along the trails who are usually naturally friendly.
Green travel – is this age of green travel a walking holiday is a environmentally good option as well.
A walking holiday is always fun with great scenery, wildlife, good exercise and new experiences, it is the best vacation ever!
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I enjoyed your article, I like the thoughts of a walking holiday close to home. I like walks along forest paths in the mountains, I love watching the wildlife, identifying birds that I know or watching the moose wander thru the campsite and I always enjoy the scenery. There is something about being outdoors that is relaxing and gives me a sense of well-being.