Walking holidays are a great way to absorb the culture and atmosphere at your own pace, whilst keeping fit and active. Here are some of the best destinations across the world for walking holidays.

Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage, Japan

Take a nine-day walking tour of Japan with the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage. Begin your journey in Osaka and take a trek to Ise, whilst over the duration exploring this World Heritage-listed trail.

On this walking holiday you can expect to see traditional Japanese temples, breath-taking waterfalls, and a whole load of nature and beautiful greenery. Passing through the mountain temple community of Koyasan will really give you a feel for this area and make for some stunning photographs.

Ausengate (Rainbow Mountains), Peru

The Rainbow Mountains of Peru are like something from a dream – you truly have to see them to believe they exist. This walk is more tailored to those who are intermediate-to-experienced at walking holidays as it involves a lot of uphill walking and vertical inclines. However, it’s incredibly worth the hard work.

A seven day walk across Peruvian desert pathways made complete by a final stop off at Machu Picchu is the perfect exploration holiday for those who aim to see the seven wonders of the world.

Liguria, Italy

Italy is well known for its beautiful wines, incredible food, and out-of-this-world scenery. Liguria is no exception and is the perfect place to explore the country by foot. With gorgeous coastal towns such as Portofino and Cinque Terre, this walk will take you on a beautiful journey around some of the most spectacular footpaths on the planet. Why not stop off at a few restaurants and bars on your way to soak up the atmosphere with a refreshing glass of vino and some hearty Italian food?

Hollyford Track, New Zealand

Milford Sound is an area of New Zealand that is more secluded and not often travelled by most. Just west of Queenstown, the Hollyford Track walk will guide you through the surrounding areas over a duration of two nights and three days.

Be amazed by the scenery and take advantage of the activities there by trying your hand at jet boating or viewing this fjord from above via helicopter.

Scottish Highlands and Lochs, Scotland

Regarded as some of the UK’s most breath-taking landscapes, the Scottish Highlands is a wonderfully rural destination full of ambles and walks aplenty. Start your journey at Loch Lomond and marvel at the shear size of this lake before visiting Glencoe, a stunning and famous glen coated with rugged rockfaces and often snow at the top of each peak. Often quiet, this area of Scotland is both peaceful and historic – an ideal destination for those who might want to explore their heritage.