When you go on a walk, you leave behind the distractions of daily life, and with each step, you become more in tune with the natural world around you.  Whether you’re trekking through remote moorlands or by rugged coasts, these journeys offer you a rhythm and connection that shorter walks just can’t match.  For your next walking holiday, you might want to consider these five unforgettable routes, each offering its own distinct experience.

Pennine Way (England)

Stretching 268 miles from Edale to Kirk Yetholm, the Pennine Way leads you through some of the country’s wildest and most remote landscapes, crossing the Peak District, the Yorkshire Dales, and the North Pennines.

The varied terrain can be challenging, especially in poor weather, but the sense of achievement when you finish is immense.  You can pace yourself by breaking it into manageable sections, allowing time to appreciate the quiet beauty of Northern England’s wildlife.  Small villages along the way also offer welcoming rest stops.

King Charles III England Coast Path (England)

This soon-to-be-complete path will span the entire English coastline, providing access to over 2,700 miles of sea views, dramatic cliffs, and scenic beaches.  The sections that are currently open already offer an incredible experience, especially in Cornwall and Yorkshire.

This route is a great choice if you’re looking for a fun yet flexible walking holiday, as many stretches are easily reachable by public transport.  You can enjoy the fresh sea air and stop off in seaside towns to explore local culture (and tuck into a 99 with a flake!).

Camino de Santiago (Spain)

The Camino de Santiago has been a popular pilgrimage for over a thousand years, with the Camino Francés covering 500 miles from the Pyrenees to Santiago de Compostela.  Walking this route provides more than just a physical journey; it’s a chance for reflection and camaraderie.

Unlike many other walks, the Camino offers well-established infrastructure, with hostels, cafés, and waymarks that guide you along your route.  It’s ideal for those new to long-distance walking.  Whether you walk for spiritual reasons or simply to experience the landscape, the Camino provides a meaningful adventure.

Via Francigena (England to Italy)

Stretching over 1,000 miles from Canterbury to Rome, the Via Francigena is an ancient pilgrimage route that crosses multiple countries, cultures, and languages.  The English section alone, leading to Dover, offers picturesque countryside and historical sites.

Though the entire trail can be daunting, you can take it in smaller sections, such as walking through northern France or the Swiss Alps.  The route lets you immerse yourself in diverse landscapes, from rolling fields to alpine peaks, and provides opportunities for cultural exploration along the way.

South West Coast Path (England)

If you love coastal walking, the South West Coast Path offers 630 miles of stunning coastline from Somerset to Dorset.  You’ll meander through varied coastal terrain, from dramatic cliffs to peaceful coves.

The walking has steep ascents and descents in places, but it’s also beautifully scenic.  Public transport connections make it easy to walk the path in manageable sections, and charming seaside towns like St Ives and Padstow offer the perfect places to rest and refuel.

Take the First Step to Adventure

These trails are pathways to adventure and reflection.  Each step brings a new challenge, but also a new reward, whether it’s the peace of the countryside or the camaraderie of fellow walkers.  Wherever you choose to walk, know that the road ahead will be just as rewarding as the destination.  So, lace up your boots and take the first step toward your next unforgettable walking holiday.