New to walking holidays? They’re a fantastic way to explore at a slower pace, connect with nature and soak up local culture. To help you get started, we’ve rounded up a few simple tips and picked out some of the best beginner-friendly trips. These holidays combine daily walks with plenty of time to unwind and discover the region you're in.

Top Tips:

1. Choose the right footwear and break them in before you go

The trips we’ve chosen below don’t involve difficult terrain, so there’s no need for heavy-duty boots. Instead, opt for supportive, comfortable walking shoes or lightweight hiking boots. Just as important as choosing the right pair is breaking them in! Wear them on a few shorter walks at home to make sure they fit well and won’t cause blisters mid-holiday. Read our guide to choosing the right boots here.

2. Build up your fitness

These holidays aren’t extreme fitness challenges, but they do involve a good amount of daily walking, with some uphill and downhill sections. A basic level of fitness will help you enjoy the experience more, so try to go on regular walks in the lead-up to your trip.

3. Pack smart

Each of our trips comes with a tailored packing list, but there are a few essentials that apply to all walking holidays: a waterproof jacket and trousers, supportive footwear, a refillable water bottle, a comfortable daypack and a small first aid kit.

4. Stay hydrated and snack often

Always carry a refillable water bottle and energy-boosting snacks like nuts or dried fruit to keep your energy up, especially on longer trails.

5. Consider using walking poles

If you’re unsure about longer walks or want extra support, consider using walking poles. They help with balance, reduce pressure on your knees during descents and can help you find a steady rhythm. It’s a good idea to test them out on a few walks at home first, as they can take some getting used to but they’re a great addition once you do.

6. Enjoy it!

Walking holidays are a brilliant way to slow down and really connect with the places you visit. Take your time, soak in the views, snap some photos and enjoy the food, culture and people along the way. It’s not just about ticking off miles, it’s about the whole experience.

Discover the beautifully varied landscape of Madeira on a series of easy-paced walks staying in comfortable hotels in pretty villages, coastal towns and fishing villages. If you’re looking for a relaxed walking holiday, which will help you discover the real essence of Madeira, then this is the perfect choice.

Trekking in the Himalaya does not have to be massively challenging. This easy paced holiday is the perfect introduction to the region and involves a 6 day trek in the foothills of the Annapurnas staying in the best standard of lodges available.

Discover some of the best walking trails on Sao Vicente and Santo Antao islands. This is ideal for your first walking holiday as you can choose between a leisurely or a more challenging walk option on most days, depending on how you're feeling.

Enjoy an excellent variety of daily walks including one of the world's best hikes, the Walk of the Gods to Posita. You'll have ample time to explore the charming towns of Amalfi and Ravello and you’ll stay in a traditional, family-run hotel known for its warm hospitality and delicious local cuisine.

This is the perfect holiday for those looking to explore the best of Jordan as you enjoy a selection of leisurely day walks plus an exciting trek into Petra. You will also get to experience staying in a Bedouin camp and floating in the Dead Sea!

The Canary Islands are a haven for walking holidays and Lanzarote is no exception; known as the 'Island of Eternal Spring' it has so much to offer. You'll explore the other-worldly volcanic landscapes, the lush green ‘Valley of a Thousand Palms’, vineyards, farmland and of course the beautiful, secluded beaches. You will also have the opportunity to visit the idyllic neighbouring island of La Graciosa.

South African winelands are world famous and rightly so. The wine is outstanding, the sun shines and the landscape is beautiful. This marvellous holiday combines several wine tasting sessions in Stellenbosch, Montagu and Barrydale with walks through the picturesque vineyards, over hill tops with panoramic views and along stunning coastal paths. This holiday is the ultimate blend of walking, exploring and relaxing.

Often described as a mountain in the sea, this is an island of contrasts where you can swim in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea and hike in breathtaking mountainscapes surrounded by jagged peaks and dramatic gorges. On this self-guided walking holiday, you will spend the first half of your week on the sparkling coast, followed by three nights in the mountainous interior of Corsica, so you can enjoy the best walks and get a true flavour of this stunning island.