There is a reason why more and more people are swapping sun loungers for hiking boots this summer. A walking holiday offers certain things that a week by the pool simply can’t. So, let’s talk about them.
It’s the most effective way to disconnect
We spend most of our lives today staring at screens and chasing notifications. If we do get any quiet moments, they often get filled with other distractions. A walking holiday forces you to slow down in a way that nothing else quite does. As you’re making your way through local villages and forest paths, for many hours on end, your mind naturally clears and stops craving anything else. In fact, studies consistently show that spending time in nature reduces your cortisol levels, therefore lowering stress levels and improving mental wellbeing.
You actually see the places you visit
Travelling by foot is very different from a usual holiday. Instead of driving from one attraction to the other, you get to see everything in between. Take Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, for example. Most holiday-makers will only visit the main attractions, such as Dubrovnik, Split and Hvar. Walking along the Dalmatian coast means also visiting the small fishing villages, hidden coves and beaches, unspoilt nature spots and ancient sites – and that is where the country shows its most authentic colours.
Each destination offers something completely different
While an all-inclusive resort holiday can be exciting the first few times, it can quickly become boring. Walking holidays, on the other hand, will surprise you each time! Even if you already visited the country, choosing a different trail in a different area will open up a completely new scenery and culture. Besides, there are so many incredible countries to visit beyond the most popular destinations, such as Albania, Romania, Montenegro or Lithuania, just to name a few.
It’s genuinely good for your body
A walking holiday isn’t a punishment for your body, but rather an amazing challenge. You will be moving for several days on end, covering long distances or difficult terrain (depending on your chosen route). Walking is known to have lots of health benefits on cardiovascular health, joint mobility and even sleep quality. Since most of us tend to live a very sedentary life, a walking holiday is the chance to break out of it and return feeling physically healthier than when you left.
You don’t have to go far
One of the best things about walking holidays is that you can find one almost anywhere in the world, especially with Europe at your fingertips. But, if you don’t have the opportunity to fly abroad, there are some beautiful options available right on our doorstep. Some of the most popular walking holidays in England include the Cotswold Trail, Pennine Way, Lake District Walk and Fife Coastal Path, but there are many others across the country.
Booking is easier than you think
Lastly, a common reason people might feel put off by a walking holiday is the perceived complexity of organising it (choosing a route, planning the itinerary, pre-booking accommodation, sorting out luggage transfers, etc…). While it’s true that planning can be a headache, today we have access to specialist agencies, like Orbis Ways, that take care of all of this for you. They will handle all the logistics, leaving you to simply enjoy the experience.
Feeling convinced?
Unlike what some people think, a walking holiday isn’t just for the ultra-fit. It’s one of the most authentic and healthiest ways to explore the world for people of all ages and backgrounds. So, if you haven’t yet considered it, this is your sign!
