Hiking holidays are a brilliant way to combine breathtaking scenery, physical activity, and an authentic connection with the great outdoors. If you're new to hiking, don’t worry. There are plenty of accessible mountain treks across the globe that cater to beginners. With the right planning and guidance, your first hiking adventure can be both comfortable and exhilarating.
Whether you're looking to wander through alpine meadows, take in panoramic summit views, or experience the tranquillity of forested trails, this guide will help you choose the perfect introduction to hiking holidays. Let's explore the best destinations and the practical details to make your first trek unforgettable.
What Makes a Great First-Time Hiking Holiday?
Not all treks are created equal, especially if you're starting out. A great hiking holiday for beginners includes:
- Clearly marked and well-maintained trails
- Moderate distances and manageable elevations
- Easy access to support and accommodation
- Stunning scenery that keeps motivation high
- A welcoming, friendly walking culture
You want a challenge that encourages, not overwhelms. And most of all, you want to enjoy the journey, not just the destination.
Protection and Peace of Mind with Jamie Wake Travel
Booking your hiking holidays through Jamie Wake Travel gives you the assurance that you're in safe hands. As members of Protected Trust Services and holders of an ATOL licence, we ensure your holiday arrangements are financially protected. All tailor-made trips include Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance, giving you complete confidence from take-off to trek.
We offer a personal service that helps you tailor your hiking holiday around your needs. Whether it’s the time of year, your level of fitness, or your preferred walking pace, we match you with the perfect destination and experience.
Hiking Holidays in the Lake District, UK
Why the Lake District?
For a first-timer, few places are as rewarding and forgiving as the Lake District. Its soft peaks, tranquil lakes, and charming villages make it ideal for those easing into walking holidays. The scenery is varied but never extreme, and public transport makes exploring a breeze.
Top Trek: Catbells
Catbells is a short yet rewarding climb near Keswick. The summit offers stunning views over Derwentwater and the surrounding fells. It’s only a few hours round trip, making it ideal for new hikers.
Where to Stay: The Borrowdale Hotel
Located near the start of several beginner-friendly trails, The Borrowdale Hotel is a cosy, character-filled base for your Lake District adventure. Think traditional Cumbrian hospitality with modern comforts.
Looking for the perfect Lake District offer? Ask us about our latest hiking holiday packages that include accommodation, breakfast, and detailed walking maps.
Hiking Holidays in the Julian Alps, Slovenia
Why Slovenia?
Slovenia is a hidden gem for walking holidays. The Julian Alps offer gentle paths, dramatic scenery, and fewer crowds than the Alps of France or Switzerland. The area around Lake Bohinj is particularly accessible for beginners.
Top Trek: Mostnica Gorge Trail
This picturesque walk follows the clear turquoise river through a narrow gorge. Wooden bridges, waterfalls, and forest paths make it a scenic treat without the need for altitude training.
Where to Stay: Hotel Jezero, Lake Bohinj
Set right by the lake, Hotel Jezero offers a relaxing place to rest after your walks. You can enjoy views of the water from your balcony or stroll the lakeside path in the evening.
We have exclusive offers for hiking holidays in Slovenia. Get in touch to learn more about our packages to Lake Bohinj.
Hiking Holidays in the Canadian Rockies, Canada
Why Canada?
Canada might seem like a destination for the seasoned explorer, but the Rockies have several trails that welcome beginners. Jasper and Banff National Parks offer well-maintained routes, friendly local guides, and world-class scenery.
Top Trek: Johnston Canyon Trail
This trail near Banff is mostly flat and follows a catwalk along the canyon. You’ll see waterfalls, striking rock formations, and dramatic cliffs, all without strenuous climbs.
Where to Stay: Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
This iconic mountain lodge offers rustic elegance in the heart of nature. You’ll enjoy luxurious rooms, lakeside views, and direct access to gentle trails.
Ask about our current Canadian Rockies travel offers – we tailor each itinerary to match your ability and interests.
Hiking Holidays in the Dolomites, Italy
Why the Dolomites?
The Dolomites combine Italian charm with epic mountain views. Though they are dramatic, there are several accessible trails and cable cars that help skip the tougher ascents.
Top Trek: Alpe di Siusi
Europe’s highest alpine meadow offers a relaxing, flower-filled trek perfect for beginners. You’ll walk among cows, quaint huts, and views that feel straight out of a postcard.
Where to Stay: Hotel Angelo Engel, Ortisei
A wellness-focused hotel in the heart of the Dolomites, Hotel Angelo Engel offers warm hospitality, spa access, and guided walks for beginners.
Interested in the Dolomites? We have great value packages that include transfers, guided hikes, and more. Just ask!
Hiking Holidays in Patagonia, Chile
Why Patagonia?
If you want a real sense of adventure without having to be an expert hiker, Patagonia delivers. In Torres del Paine National Park, you’ll find beginner-friendly walks alongside lakes and glaciers.
Top Trek: Mirador Cuernos Trail
This half-day hike offers glacier-fed lakes, mountain backdrops, and wildlife sightings. It's relatively flat and well-marked, ideal for those easing into longer distances.
Where to Stay: EcoCamp Patagonia
Stay in sustainable, dome-style accommodation with stunning views of the Paine massif. It’s a unique and memorable base for your first hiking adventure in South America.
Chat to us about hiking holidays in Patagonia. We’ll create a bespoke trip that fits your timeframe, budget, and trekking level.
Hiking Holidays in Japan’s Kiso Valley
Why the Kiso Valley?
Japan offers more than temples and cities. The Kiso Valley provides a gentle and culturally rich hiking experience, perfect for first-timers. Walking the Nakasendo Trail — an ancient postal route — combines nature with historical intrigue. You’ll pass tea houses, wooden villages, and forested paths that feel worlds away from modern life.
Top Trek: Magome to Tsumago
This short section of the Nakasendo Trail is only around 8km and takes 2–3 hours. It’s ideal for beginners, with paved sections and English signage. Along the way, you’ll see rice paddies, waterfalls, and the preserved Edo-period post towns.
Where to Stay: Fujioto Ryokan, Tsumago
A traditional Japanese inn offering tatami rooms and multi-course dinners. It’s a unique cultural experience and a peaceful place to end your hike.
We offer custom itineraries in Japan that combine walking, sightseeing, and authentic ryokan stays. Speak to us about creating your Kiso Valley hiking adventure.
Hiking Holidays in the Highlands, Scotland
Why Scotland?
Scotland offers rugged beauty and a long tradition of walking culture. The West Highland Way, while long, has many shorter sections perfect for first-timers.
Top Trek: Loch Lomond Shoreline Trail
A gentle walk along the eastern shore of Loch Lomond gives you forests, loch views, and plenty of wildlife. It’s peaceful and scenic without being difficult.
Where to Stay: Lodge on Loch Lomond
Set right on the water’s edge, this hotel provides comfort, Scottish cuisine, and beautiful views. Ideal for relaxing after a long walk.
We can personalise your Highland hiking holiday to include guided walks, luggage transfers, and hand-picked accommodation.
Hiking Holidays in Madeira, Portugal
Why Madeira?
Madeira is fast becoming one of the best destinations for hiking holidays in Europe — especially for beginners. Its year-round mild climate, volcanic scenery, and famous levada trails (historic irrigation paths) offer rewarding walks with minimal difficulty. The island balances nature, comfort, and culture brilliantly.
Top Trek: Levada do Caldeirão Verde
This beginner-friendly trail takes you through lush forest, past waterfalls and along narrow levada paths. It’s mostly flat but incredibly scenic. You’ll see the Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and end at a dramatic canyon.
Where to Stay: Quinta da Casa Branca
Set within a tropical garden estate, this boutique hotel in Funchal combines traditional charm with modern luxury. It's perfect for resting weary legs and is only a short transfer from most trailheads.
Ask us about our current Madeira hiking holiday offers. From direct flights to hand-picked accommodation, we can create a tailored trip that suits you perfectly.
