If you’re looking for spectacular views and a rugged landscape that takes your breath away while stretching your limbs, you could be forgiven for thinking that you have to venture overseas in order to see it. But the journey doesn’t have to be that long or far, there are incredible walking destinations on your own doorstep so check out the Fitness Footwear top three walking destinations in the UK.
Lake District
No walking destination in the UK can beat the sheer magnitude, magnificence and beauty of the Lake District. It’s the first stop for keen hiking adventurers from the beginner to the seasoned professional and with so much choice of various terrain and stunning year-round beauty, you can exactly why it’s such a popular destination. But while popular you can still venture out to some areas of the lakes and not see another person for hours, of course there are the tourist hotspots that will never be truly yours alone but you can still enjoy them as though they are. Places like Windermere offer families and couples a romantic and beautiful area to enjoy scenery and light walks, boat trips and water sports, but for true challenges and breathtaking views, trek up to the top of one of the Lakes’ mountains – Skafell Pike, Helvellyn, Skiddaw and Bow Fell to name just a few.
West Ireland
The Atlantic coast of Ireland reveals an enchanting and thought provoking, dramatic landscape. There’s something quite incredible about looking out towards the ocean and knowing that should you jump and swim, you wouldn’t see land for a very long time. But on dry land there’s so much to see and do – it’s not surprising that when people think of a UK break, many hop on a ferry or plane to our western isle. From the Dingle Peninsula in the southwest (described as the most beautiful place on the earth by National Geographic) to the secluded Aran Islands just off the west coast, Ireland holds its own unique beauty that has to be explored; you can’t rush a trip around these parts, you need to stay and while and really take in the scenery. And with the West Coast of Ireland offer all-year-round beauty you’re not limited in when you can visit.
Scottish Highlands
From the expanse of Britain’s largest National Park, the Cairngorms, to the dramatic coastline and deserted beaches of the Outer Hebrides, the Scottish Highlands are a walker’s paradise. You’ll not find a more versatile and visually spectacular destination than what this area has to offer, and thanks to the choice of accommodation available throughout the highlands this has become a much more accessible destination for walkers of all levels. For a light approach, the easily accessible village of Aviemore is the perfect base as walks from here are family friendly and not excessively challenging. These low-lever forest trails offer great opportunities for taking in the wildlife and beautiful scenery with lochs, ruins and lush forest aplenty. On the other end of the spectrum is the Five Sisters Ridge – North Glen Shiel, one of the best and must-do mountain walks in the Scottish Highlands which presents countless challenges and superb views for those that work for them.