If you’re planning a walking trip with your group next year, there’s plenty on offer, from hidden trails and undiscovered tracks to mountain top routes and lake side paths.
Inspired by KE Adventures, we round-up some walking destinations and some top tips for groups planning a rambling trip in 2018, both abroad and at home.
Abroad
A top place to take a walking trip, as outlined by KE Adventures, is the Balkans, especially Bosnia and Herzegovina. These destinations add up to a great cultural experience as well as walking. Highlights of taking a walking trip to the Balkans include hiking up Maglic, Bosnia’s highest peak, on the Via Dinarica Trail. For nature lovers, there’s the Bjelasnica Mountains and Sutjeska National Park, plus the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Mostar and Dubrovnik – and for foodies you can even do a spot of wine tasting in the town of Trebinje. KE Adventures suggests you start your trip with day walks and build up to hiking up Maglic.
Southern Albania is another option for a walking trip. With rugged mountains and white beaches, this scenic area of the country has many undiscovered hiking areas. Plus, there is plenty to do besides rambling, from visiting olive groves, to trips on Albania’s Riviera, and exploring the Medieval towns.
The Canaries may be renowned as a beach holiday destination but actually offer plenty for active groups. KE Adventures suggests that more active groups try walking up Pico de Malpaso (1501m), El Hierros’ highest point. You could also walk the GR131 route, with views across to Mount Teide on Tenerife and La Gomera, or visit San Andres, the highest village and look for El Hierro's giant lizard.
The Alps may seem an obvious choice, with snowy mountains, fresh air, and glorious lakes, but you’ll discover secret trails and new paths when visiting. Go off the beaten track in the ‘Vallee des Merveilles’ or try quiet trails and wild trekking in the land of chamois, ibex and marmot.
Ideas for these abroard trips are inspired by walking trails you can take with KE Adventures. You can visit the website here www.keadventure.com.
Pictured: Snowdonia, Wales.
Britain
If travelling abroad for a walking holiday is not an option with your group, never fear – there are plenty of walking trails and undiscovered areas for you to explore in Britain.
With UNESCO sites, national forests, nature reserves, and plenty of lakes, hills and countryside, Britain offers the ideal location for a closer by trip with your group. Plus, if mountains seem like too much of a challenge, locations like the Lake District offer a great alternative, with undulating hills, and high peaks, that still challenge you but are easier than attempting a hike up the Alps.
Snowdonia in Wales provides plenty of walking trails that are not too difficult for groups. And for the more active, a hike up Snowdon itself could be on the cards. There’s also plenty to do in the surrounding areas, with much flatter routes available through Welsh towns, and scenic strolls along the coastline.
The Scottish Highlands are a great choice for nature and walking lovers, as its natural beauty will not only offer you hidden trails, but a multitude of wildlife and scenery that you may not get in England. There are many birds and mammals that you may be able to spot of a visit, from golden eagles and capakaley to red deer and pine martins. So, make sure you take your binoculars when visiting.
Lead image: Walking in Southern Albania.
