Planning your next big adventure? Whether you're an avid hiker or just someone who loves to explore beautiful landscapes, 2024 has been an incredible year for bucket-list-worthy destinations and routes. Nearly 27,000 travelers headed on a Macs Adventure self-guided hiking trip this year, exploring some of the most stunning trails around the world. From the enchanting trails of Scotland to the sunlit pathways of Spain, there’s an unforgettable experience waiting for everyone. 

This guide will highlight 2024’s top destinations for hiking and dig into the specific routes that adventure lovers can't stop raving about. By the end, you’ll be ready to lace up your boots, and hit these trails yourself. 

2024’s Top-Selling Destinations 

Each of these destinations has earned its place on the adventure map for their stunning scenery, cultural richness, and unparalleled trails. 

Scotland

Scotland is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and it’s no wonder it consistently makes the list of top hiking destinations. Over 6,000 Macs customers hiked in Scotland in 2024! It offers a mix of rugged coastlines, lush greenery, and dramatic mountain landscapes.   

Why it’s great for hiking: Wind through glens and lochs to rugged coastal paths and towering Munros. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and well-marked routes, Scotland is the perfect destination to explore on foot. 

Pro tip: The months of May and September offer milder weather and fewer midges (Scotland’s notoriously annoying bugs). 

France 

France isn’t just about baguettes and the Eiffel Tower—its diverse terrain makes it perfect for adventurers. The Tour du Mont Blanc, weaving through France, Switzerland, and Italy, is an absolute chart-topper in the world of hiking. In 2024 alone, Macs sent over 2,000 adventurers to France to explore its mesmerizing hiking trails and landscapes. 

Why it’s great for hiking: From stunning mountain trails to charming countryside paths, hiking in France offers endless variety. Explore snow-capped peaks, lush vineyards, and picturesque villages that feel straight out of a postcard. And the food? Enjoy fresh local cheese, wine, and regional specialties as the perfect reward for your adventure. 

Pro tip: Book your Tour du Mont Blanc adventure early, as this popular route tends to fill up quickly - like REALLY quick! 

Spain 

Spain has long been a favorite for adventurers seeking variety, beauty, and a dash of culture. In 2024, Macs sent over 3,000 hikers to explore its stunning landscapes, including the iconic Camino Frances. This route on the Camino de Santiago offers a profound blend of spiritual introspection and physical challenge. 

Why it’s great for hiking: Spain offers incredible diversity, from the rolling vineyards of La Rioja and the rugged mountains of the Pyrenees to the stunning coastal trails and charming medieval villages. Every region has its own unique charm, making it a hiker’s paradise. 

Pro tip: Even if you’re not religious, the camaraderie of fellow travelers along the Camino routes are deeply enriching. 

England 

England’s rolling hills, historic villages, and atmospheric trails offer some of the most enchanting landscapes to explore on foot. In 2024, nearly 6,000 hikers chose Macs to experience these stunning routes for themselves. 

Routes like the Coast to Coast take you from the Irish Sea to the North Sea, providing quintessentially English scenery (yes, we’re talking stone walls and sheep-filled pastures).   

Why it’s great for hiking: Hiking in England offers a perfect mix of stunning landscapes, rich history, and charming villages. From rolling hills and dramatic coastlines to ancient trails and cozy country pubs, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the countryside or walking through historic sites, every hike feels like a step back in time. 

Pro tip: Don’t miss the iconic afternoon tea experience in England, a perfect blend of tradition and indulgence with delicate sandwiches, scones, and a pot of freshly brewed tea. 

Portugal 

Portugal has been stealing the spotlight with its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and delicious local cuisine, beckoning over 2,000 adventurers to go on a Portugal self-guided hiking trip with Macs in 2024. The Camino Portugues Coastal Way combines all this with a cultural pilgrimage like no other. 

Why it’s great for hiking: Hiking in Portugal offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and adventure. The diverse landscapes make every hike unique, from stunning coastal trails with dazzling ocean views to lush forests and rolling hills. Along the way, you can enjoy the country’s warm climate, charming villages, and delicious local cuisine, including the freshest seafood. 

Pro tip: Take a day to explore Porto's wine cellars—your legs will thank you for the rest. 

Italy 

Italy has captivated outdoor enthusiasts with its diverse landscapes, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine, making it an enticing destination for a self-guided hiking adventure in 2024. With over 2,000 Macs adventurers exploring its scenic trails this year, Italy’s rugged Dolomites and picturesque Cinque Terre offer unforgettable routes and cultural experiences that will leave you in awe. 

Why it’s great for hiking: Italy is home to a wide range of hiking trails, catering to all levels of experience and fitness. Whether you're seeking challenging mountain treks or leisurely coastal walks, there's something for everyone. Plus, the dramatic vistas and charming villages along the way make every step a delight. 

Pro tip: Try regional specialities like handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, creamy gelato, and rich espresso. Each region has its own unique dishes, so exploring local cuisine is a must to fully experience Italy’s culinary treasures. 

2024’s Most Popular Hiking Routes 

While the destinations themselves are spectacular, the magic lies in these unforgettable routes. 

West Highland Way (Scotland) 

Considered one of Scotland's most iconic trails, this 96-mile route offers unparalleled views of rugged mountains, shimmering lochs, and sweeping moorland.   

Why we love it: It’s a great balance of challenge and accessibility, with plenty of cozy inns along the way. Plus, it's the first route we ever offered! 

Tour du Mont Blanc (France/Switzerland/Italy)   

Stunning Alpine scenery and the thrill of crossing three borders make this trail irresistible to adventure seekers.   

Why we love it: Every mile is different, from peaceful mountain paths to bustling villages offering incredible fondue.   

Camino Frances (Spain)   

The ultimate pilgrimage route, stretching around 500 miles from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Santiago de Compostela.   

Why we love it: The rich cultural and historical significance combined with the joy of walking through quaint towns make it truly one-of-a-kind.   

Coast to Coast (England)   

This 192-mile route is the dream of hikers who want to touch two seas in one trip, traversing the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, and North York Moors.   

Why we love it: It’s the full package—stunning landscapes, historical charm, and friendly locals.   

Hadrian’s Wall Path (England)   

Follow in the footsteps of Roman soldiers as you hike this 84-mile UNESCO World Heritage trail.   

Why we love it: The mix of natural beauty and Roman history provides a unique hiking experience.   

Cotswold Way (England)   

This charming 102-mile walk meanders through the quintessentially English Cotswolds, known for its rolling countryside and scenic villages.   

Why we love it: Perfect for a leisurely-paced adventure, ending each day with a pint in a historic pub.   

Camino Portugues Coastal Way (Portugal)   

This scenic coastal route, a variation of the Camino de Santiago, spans from Porto to Santiago de Compostela.   

Why we love it: The seaside views, friendly locals, and delicious Portuguese cuisine make every step a joy. With the incredible variety of terrain, you can experience different types of hikes all in one day. No two days are the same - always offering something new and exciting to look forward to. 

Alta Via 1 (Dolomites, Italy)   

Known as the “High Route,” this trail offers sensational views of Italy's dramatic Dolomite mountains.   

Why we love it: Challenging yet rewarding, the mix of natural beauty and mountain rifugios (huts) is unforgettable.   

Dingle Way (Ireland)   

A circular 111-mile trek around Ireland's Dingle Peninsula—one of the country’s hidden gems.   

Why we love it: The blend of sea cliffs, lush green landscapes, and authentic Irish hospitality is unbeatable.   

2024's Rising Star Hiking Route 

Algarve Coastal Trails (Portugal) 

Discover the beauty of the Algarve region through our captivating Algarve Coastal Trails trip. This rising star route captured the hearts of adventurous travelers in 2024, proving our most popular Portuguese route of the year! Offering mesmerizing coastal views, rugged cliffs, and golden beaches, it's easy to see why it was a firm favorite.  

Why we love it: The Algarve Coastal Trails offer a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. From dramatic cliffs overlooking the sea to tranquil sandy beaches, every step reveals a new wonder. The warm hospitality of the locals and the flavors of the region’s delicious cuisine add a unique charm, striking the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. This trail truly has it all. 

Why Choose Macs Adventure for Your Hiking Trip?  

Here at Macs Adventure, we specialize in self-guided hiking trips. We handle the logistics, like accommodations and luggage transfers, leaving you free to focus on enjoying the hike. Whether you want to uncover Europe’s hidden corners or tackle famous long-distance routes, we’ve got you covered.  

Our 2024 hiking trips featured over 27,000 adventurers, with many choosing rural pathways, coastal views, and historical routes. We’re here to help you feel confident on your self-guided adventure, providing you with insider tips, easy-to-use app-based navigation, and 24/7 support. 

Find Your Next Adventure 

2024 has so many incredible destinations and routes to choose from, whether you're drawn to Scotland's remote beauty, Spain's cultural richness, or Portugal's coastal charm. These are adventures that leave footprints on your soul, not just in the mud.

Feeling inspired? Dive into our trips, follow us on social media, and join our Facebook community for tips, stories, and connections with fellow explorers. And don’t miss our "Trending for 2025" blog to discover the adventures everyone will be talking about. Your next journey awaits—where will it take you?