Walking is one of the very best ways of experiencing the gorgeous landscapes of Europe, and walking holidays are brilliant for both body and soul – relaxing but also challenging in just the right measure, they are great for your fitness levels and getting your daily dose of Vitamin D, and for packing in lots of opportunities to immerse yourself in local culture, feast on seasonal, regional food and drink, and switch your brain off from everyday concerns.
We love the fact that walking holidays don’t have set itineraries: they can be fully flexible, giving you the freedom to explore as much of the local area as you like and to go at your own pace. You can find up to two included guided walks per week in some resorts, inviting you to meet other guests, discover hidden gems that you might not under you own steam, and fully appreciate the scenery and trails thanks to a local guide with their insider expertise and insights.
With its charming Alpine villages, lush meadows and fascinating historical sites to explore, Austria has long been a firm favourite with walkers and hikers. It has more than 24,000km of marked hiking trails taking you to or past peaks, valleys and lakes, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Italy is another classic destination for those who love discovering new places on foot, with landscapes ranging from gorgeous stretches of coast to looming mountains, from olive groves to villages lost in time, and with an ancient history matched only by its world-revered cuisine.
From its snow-covered peaks to the villages that dot the shores of its lakes, tiny Switzerland has one of the most dramatic landscapes in Europe. All Ingham’s Swiss holidays include Swiss Half Fare Card, giving you 50% savings on travel around the country using the hugely efficient Swiss transport system of boats, buses and trains.
France is the most-visited country in the world by a margin of several million visitors, yet it somehow never feels crowded, and it includes some of Europe’s most breathtaking scenery, from majestic rivers to spectacular peaks. It’s also famous for its lifestyle and overall joie de vivre – most of which shines through in its amazing food and wine.
Lesser known to many but an epic place to explore, the Central European destination of Slovenia with its location at the foot of the glorious Julian Alps is heaven for walkers and hikers, who can enjoy deep blue lakes, dense forests, green valleys, orchards ablaze with brightly coloured foliage and crystalline streams.
To book your walking holiday in Europe for this summer, call your Travel Counsellor today and take advantage of some great savings.
To take just one example, a 7-night walking holiday to Mayrhofen in Austria, staying at the 3* Foersterhaus zum Kramerwirt, starts at just £599pp (saving over £400), with flights from Birmingham, Bristol, or Manchester. Take advantage of this and other great early-booking offers plus a deposit of just £150pp (T&Cs apply).
Aruba beckons with its serene beauty, making it an irresistible choice for those seeking a luxurious tropical getaway. Aruba boasts award-winning, uncrowded, white-sand beaches that promise a slice of paradise where you can unwind to your heart's content. With guaranteed sunshine, crystal-clear waters, and stunning architecture, Aruba is a gem waiting to be discovered.
The personal experiences of our Travel Counsellors, together with their combined insider knowledge of hotels, resorts, and destinations, ensure that they can hand-pick the very best holidays for your needs.
Continuing the pioneering spirit of the innovative, award-winning Virgin Voyages cruises, Brilliant Lady is set to cross the United States in her highly anticipated 2025 debut season. Highlights among the once-in-a-lifetime five- to 16-night journeys will include a voyage through the Panama Canal and a trip through the glaciers and fjords of Alaska.
