For adventurous and active travelers, walking holidays offer a unique and enriching way to explore the world at a slower pace and really take everything in. Whether you’re strolling along a decadent coastal path or trekking through mountainous terrain, here are some of the most scenic walking holiday spots around the globe.
Patagonia, Argentina & Chile: Explore the Untouched Wilderness of South America
Patagonia is a vast, rugged region shared by Argentina and Chile, known for its untouched wilderness, towering glaciers, and stunning mountain ranges. This destination is perfect for hikers who crave an adventure into some of the most dramatic landscapes in the world. One of the most popular routes is the W-Trek in Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park, which takes you past azure lakes, glaciers, and the iconic granite towers that the park is named after.
On the Argentine side, the Fitz Roy Range in Los Glaciares National Park offers equally awe-inspiring vistas. The towering peaks of Mount Fitz Roy provide a backdrop to trails that wind through forests and alongside glacial rivers. Whether you’re walking along vast plains, through lush valleys, or beside jagged mountain ridges, Patagonia is perfect for hiking trips that take you through some of the world’s most breathtaking wilderness areas, offering unforgettable views and adventures.
The Swiss Alps, Switzerland: Alpine Walking with Panoramic Views
Switzerland is home to some of the most picturesque walking trails in Europe, and the Swiss Alps offer a perfect combination of panoramic mountain views, verdant valleys, and charming villages. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or just enjoy a scenic stroll, Switzerland has something for everyone.
Popular routes like the Haute Route, which connects Chamonix in France to Zermatt in Switzerland, take hikers through high mountain passes and alongside glaciers, providing some of the most dramatic views in the Alps. For a less intense but equally scenic experience, the Via Alpina trail offers beautiful alpine meadows and quaint villages. The country’s efficient train system also makes accessing the trails easy, making the Swiss Alps one of the most accessible walking destinations in Europe.
Milford Track, New Zealand: The Finest Walk in the World
Known to be one of the “finest walks in the world,” New Zealand’s Milford Track is a must-visit for walking holiday enthusiasts. Located in Fiordland National Park, the 33-mile (53-kilometer) trail takes walkers through some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery, including towering waterfalls, dense rainforests, and stunning fjords.
What makes the Milford Track so special is its pristine environment, with the number of walkers allowed on the trail being limited each season. This ensures that the landscape remains untouched and that visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of the region without crowds. The dramatic landscapes shaped by glacial activity, combined with the rich biodiversity of the area, make this walk a bucket-list experience for nature lovers.
Cinque Terre, Italy: Coastal Beauty and Colorful Villages
Italy’s Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers one of the most scenic coastal walking experiences in the world. This stunning stretch of coastline is made up of five colorful villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—perched on cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea.
The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Path) is the most popular trail, connecting all five villages and offering walkers breathtaking views of the sea, terraced vineyards, and charming Italian architecture. In addition to its natural beauty, Cinque Terre provides an opportunity to indulge in Italian culture, from delicious seafood dishes to the region’s famous wine. This combination of scenic coastal walks and rich cultural experiences makes Cinque Terre a must-visit destination for walkers.