Grab your hiking poles, adventure seekers - 2026 is shaping up to be an amazing year for hikers! From dramatic mountains to serene coastal paths, the search for the best hiking destinations is at an all-time high. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just someone looking to escape the daily grind, this list has all the inspiration you need for your next adventure. 

Search trends over the past year reveal unprecedented interest in some of the world’s most awe-inspiring trails. We've curated the top destinations based on popularity spikes! Read on to discover the must-visit routes and emerging trends for 2026. 

Thames Path – England 

Following the iconic River Thames from its source in the Cotswolds to London, this trail combines peaceful countryside with historic towns, riverside pubs, and cityscapes. It’s perfect for walkers wanting a mix of urban and rural experiences, with easy-to-moderate walking terrain suitable for most. 

Check out our Thames Path itineraries >

Camino Portugués Coastal Way – Portugal 

This 174-mile (280 km) route hugs the Atlantic coast from Porto to Santiago de Compostela. Walkers enjoy sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming seaside towns. The trail is less crowded than the inland Camino, providing peaceful walking and opportunities to taste fresh seafood, enjoy local hospitality, and experience Portugal’s cultural heritage. 

Check out our Camino Portugués itineraries >

Hadrian’s Wall – England 

This historic trail spans 84 miles (135 km) across Northern England, tracing the route of the Roman fortification built nearly 2,000 years ago. Walkers explore rolling countryside, crumbling ruins, and atmospheric stone forts. Highlights include Housesteads Roman Fort, Vindolanda, and the Tyne Valley. With moderate terrain and a mix of cultural and natural attractions, Hadrian’s Wall offers a unique combination of history, scenic walking, and gentle physical challenge. 

Check out our Hadrian's Wall itineraries >

Great Glen Way – Scotland 

Stretching 9 miles (127 km) from Fort William to Inverness, this trail follows Scotland’s natural fault line and the Caledonian Canal. Hikers walk along tranquil lochs, including Loch Ness, ancient forests, and Highland landscapes. The route is well-served with inns and B&Bs, and walkers can enjoy boat trips, historic castles, and wildlife spotting along the way. With moderate difficulty and scenic variety, it’s perfect for multi-day walking adventures. 

Check out our Great Glen Way itineraries >

Coast to Coast – England 

Covering around 190 miles (305 km) from St Bees on the Irish Sea to Robin Hood’s Bay on the North Sea, this classic English trail passes through three national parks: Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, and North York Moors. Walkers encounter rugged fells, tranquil rivers, charming market towns, and historic villages. Highlights include crossing the Lake District’s dramatic ridges and walking along the heather-clad North York Moors. Ideal for walkers seeking varied terrain and cultural immersion. 

Check out our Coast to Coast itineraries >

The E5 Alpine Crossing – Germany, Austria & Italy 

The E5 Alpine Crossing is a challenging, multi-country trek for hikers ready to go beyond the TMB. Crossing from Germany through Austria into Italy, it features steep ascents, high-alpine terrain, and stays in traditional huts. Popular with European walkers but lesser-known elsewhere, it’s a demanding yet incredibly rewarding alpine journey. 

Check out our E5 Alpine Crossing itineraries >

Camino Le Puy – France 

Also known as the Via Podiensis, this 466-mile (750 km) pilgrimage route begins in Le Puy-en-Velay and winds through the Auvergne and Midi-Pyrénées regions. Walkers navigate rolling hills, medieval villages, Romanesque churches, and vineyards. The trail is rich in cultural heritage and provides a slower, reflective walking experience compared to the Camino Francés. It’s well-suited for walkers looking to combine history, culture, and long-distance trekking.

Check out our Camino Le Puy itineraries >

Cotswold Way – England 

Stretching 102 miles (164 km) through quintessential English countryside, the trail passes honey-coloured villages, rolling hills, and historic landmarks like Sudeley Castle and Hailes Abbey. It’s ideal for walkers seeking gentle terrain, scenic beauty, and a taste of rural England. 

Check out our Cotswolds itineraries >

Lech River Trail – Germany 

The Lech River Trail is an ideal first long-distance alpine walk, offering a moderate route along the turquoise Lech through quiet valleys and charming villages. Ending in Füssen -home to the famous Neuschwanstein “Disney castle” - it combines gentle riverside paths with classic alpine scenery, perfect for those seeking a relaxed but rewarding mountain adventure. 

Check out our Lech River trail itinerary >

Alta Via 1 – Dolomites, Italy 

This 75-mile (120 km) trail winds through Italy’s stunning Dolomite range, renowned for dramatic limestone cliffs, verdant valleys, and wildflower meadows. Hikers stay in rifugios (mountain lodges), offering hearty meals and a warm bed after long days of trekking. The route passes iconic peaks like the Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Monte Paterno, providing spectacular sunrise and sunset views. Suitable for moderately experienced hikers, Alta Via 1 combines physical challenge with the charm of Italian alpine culture. 

Check out our Alta Via 1 itineraries >

Full South West Coast Path – England 

This epic 630-mile (1,014 km) trail covers England’s southwest coast from Minehead to Poole. While travellers have always tackled the route in sections, we've noticed more and more committing to the full route, possibly after being inspired by the recent Salt Path film. Walkers explore dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, sandy beaches, and picturesque fishing villages. It’s ideal for adventurous walkers seeking a long-distance, immersive coastal experience, with opportunities to explore local wildlife and cultural heritage along the way. 

Check out our Full South West Coast Path itinerary >

Check out our range of South West Coast Path itineraries >

Destinations That Never Go Out of Style 

Some classic hikes are timeless, and 2026 is the perfect year to finally check them off your list. 

Tour du Mont Blanc

Take on an unforgettable trek through the spectacular landscapes of France, Italy, and Switzerland on this legendary Alpine trail. Experience towering peaks, lush valleys, charming villages, and diverse cultures as you make your way through one of the most iconic hiking routes in the world. 

See what all the fuss is about on the TMB > 

West Highland Way, Scotland

A must-visit destination for lovers of dramatic moors, rugged landscapes, and cosy pubs, nestled along one of Scotland’s most famous routes through the West Highlands. Explore spectacular views, historic castles, charming villages, and warm hospitality that make this journey unforgettable. 

Witness the wonders of the West Highland Way for yourself > 

Camino de Santiago, Spain

Join pilgrims along one of the 7 key routes of the Camino to Santiago de Compostela, a journey walked for centuries. While all routes lead to the historic city, each begins in a different location and offers its own unique experience. From spiritual reflection to cultural discovery, you'll pass through historic villages, stunning landscapes, and awe-inspiring cathedrals. Whether you're seeking personal growth, a connection to history, or an unforgettable adventure, the Camino’s diverse paths provide a transformative journey for everyone. 

Begin your transformation on a Camino route > 

Why Choose a Self-Guided Walking Adventure with Macs 

Ok, so you’ve picked your next hiking destination, now what? Wondering why self-guided travel might be your best bet? At Macs Adventure, we offer: 

• Luggage Transfers – Focus on walking while your gear meets you at your next stop.  
• Expert Planning – With over 20 years of experience, we ensure your route is safe, scenic, and seamless.  
• Comfortable Stays – Stay at hand-picked local accommodations where you can unwind after a day on the trails.  
• Flexibility – No groups or guides means you travel on your terms.  
• Sustainability – We’re a Certified B Corp dedicated to positive travel that gives back to communities and protects trails.  
• Easy-to-Use Navigational App – No more worrying about wrong turns or missed landmarks – our app ensures you stay on track, making your walking adventure stress-free and enjoyable. 

Plan Your 2026 Walking Adventure 

Your next trail is waiting for you. Whether it’s exploring Europe’s mountains or wandering coastal paths, these trending destinations are your ticket to adventure.  

Not sure where to start? Macs Adventure specialises in self-guided walking trips designed to make exploring stress-free. From route planning to luggage transfers, we’ll handle the logistics so you can enjoy the hike. 

Say yes to adventure in 2026 - book your trail with Macs Adventure today and start a journey you'll never forget. 

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