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What to consider when booking a walking holiday

Admin, The UK Times
20 May 2026 • 11:23 am
What to consider when booking a walking holiday
What to consider when booking a walking holiday

Have you ever been on a walking holiday before? Walking holidays have been growing in popularity over the years and are definitely something you should consider doing. They offer a completely different way to travel, allowing you to slow down and experience destinations in a far more natural way than you would from a car, train, or tour bus – often you get to places that you can only get to by foot, meaning they are completely unspoilt.

It’s a type of holiday that you can enjoy anywhere in the world, as each country offers something completely different. A hike in England gives you the chance to explore the beautiful countryside by taking on the Cumbria Way. In Spain, you can hike the coast, whilst in Italy, the Dolomites offer arguably some of the most stunning hikes in the world.

If you are thinking of booking a walking holiday, here are a few things to consider. Keep on reading to learn more about choosing the right walking holiday for you.

Choose the right difficulty level

One of the most important things to think about when booking a walking holiday is the difficulty level. Some walking routes are gentle and suitable for beginners, while others involve steep climbs, uneven terrain, and long walking days that require a good level of fitness.

Before booking, check the daily walking distances, elevation levels, and estimated walking times. It’s important to be realistic about your ability so you can enjoy the experience rather than struggle through it. For example, this hike on the Dales Way in 8 days is rated as a low-average difficulty.

Decide between guided or self-guided

Another consideration is to think about whether you would prefer a guided or self-guided walking holiday. Guided tours are ideal if you enjoy travelling with others and want the reassurance of having an experienced guide leading the way. On the flip side, you can book a self-guided holiday, where you can walk at your own pace, stop whenever you like, and enjoy a more personal experience. Many self-guided packages still include maps, route notes, and luggage transfers, allowing you to focus on the walk itself without worrying about logistics.

Check what’s included

Walking holiday packages can vary greatly, so it’s important to check exactly what is included before booking. Some packages include accommodation, meals, luggage transfers, airport transport, and route maps, while others may only cover accommodation. It’s also worth checking the type of accommodation provided. As you can imagine, accommodation options can vary hugely, with some focusing on luxury (think pools and spas) whilst others may focus on practicality and affordability and only include the basic amenities, which are still nice, but not considered luxurious.

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