As the end of 2019 approaches it is time to reflect, but more importantly, time to look forward.  Your adventure this year may have been immense (I know mine was!) but it's a big world and you never know what lies in front of you in 2020.  You may have walked epic coastal trails, crossed from one coast to another, hiked across the Rockies or made a ton of new friends on your pilgrimage, but no matter how amazing the experience, there are a million out there to be explored. 

To get you going, here are our annual picks for the best trips for each month of the year, so no matter when you want to go, from winter getaway to walking in the autumnal colors, we have something perfect for you.  

January:

El Hierro was voted one of the ‘Best trips to take in 2020’ by National Geographic! We're delighted this charming island has received the recognition it deserves!  The remarkable island has fantastic walking trails, a rare sleepy charm and 60% of its territory is protected to preserve El Hierro’s natural and cultural diversity. Why not make it your goal in 2020 to visit one of the least visited yet most interesting Canary Island. You can find the full El Hierro itinerary here. 

February:

Madeira is a charming tropical island full of contrasts; the colonial charm of the towns and villages, the rugged and dramatic coastal scenery, the explosion of colors of the local flora and fauna, and the traditional irrigation channels which form a network of well-paved paths. It's a walkers paradise at any time of year!

March:

Walking from Sintra to Cascais in March is a great time for hiking. Spring brings warm temperatures, the flowers are starting to bloom and the wild landscapes you will traverse will be bursting with life.  It also means you miss the summer crowds! Sintra is a hot-spot and for very good reason, filled with opulent palaces, dramatic castles and majestic Gothic wonderlands, it is a highlight that should not be missed out on. 

April:

Time for a classic! April is the perfect time to cycle the Elbe, one of Europe’s most beloved bike routes. This mostly flat, traffic-free path is perfect for a first cycling adventure or for a leisurely yet active getaway. What are you waiting for?

May:

The West Highland Way in Scotland is our most popular walk. If we're honest, the weather can't be guaranteed in Scotland at any time of year (did someone say "four seasons in one day"?), but according to the Met office you have the least chance of rain in May! Pack your sunscreen, your waterproofs, and we guarantee you will have fun no matter what the weather brings.

June:

Enjoy a quieter Camino experience away from the crowds on the Camino Portugues Coastal Way. June brings plenty hours of sunshine, without the busy summer crowds!

July:

Summer-time in England is a glorious time of year. Walk the Cotswolds Way - England's largest designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and then take time to explore the nearby events and festivals. Perhaps Wimbledon 2020? 

August:

The Tour du Mont Blanc season is short, as the snow usually only clears to make the paths passable for non-technical walkers from June - September. August is a great time to take on this epic circuit of Mont Blanc.

September:

The Dingle Way is situated in the south-west of Ireland and September often sees some great weather. Once voted as National Geographics most beautiful place in the world, the Dingle Peninsula has a heady mix of mountains, history and wide, white, untouched beaches.

October:

Visiting Japan is an experience not to be missed for so many reasons and while the cherry blossom season in April is the one thing everyone wants to see, Autumn brings its own joys, including Momiji-Gare, the art of watching the leaves change color. It's a popular trip and a popular time to visit so we would recommend booking the Kumano Kodo trail as early as possible! 

November:

Escape to the other side of the world for a trip of a lifetime as you Drive & Hike the Best of New Zealand. Big adventures require more planning and some of the 'Great Walks' book up a year in advance. Get in touch with one of our specialists if you have any questions. 

December:

Finish the year with a tropical island adventure in Thailand. We have some pretty epic biking tours that allow you to experience the luscious foods, fields, forests and sacred spaces as well as some well earned time at the beach.

For information on any of these tours or more advice from our expert team on the best places to take a walking or biking adventure break in 2020, you can contact the Macs Adventure specialists.