Gillian Thornton’s travel tips for walking holidays

Gillian Thornton helps you choose the right walking holiday.

AS soon as the countryside’s dressed in fresh spring green, I can’t wait to get out in my walking boots. There’s no better way to relax and get fit than by exploring the countryside with family and friends, and we usually manage to build in a refuelling stop at a pub or tearoom!

Rambling round my home county soon gave me the urge to explore farther afield, and if you’ve never considered a holiday on foot, you might be surprised how addictive it can be.

Not just the physical action of walking in the fresh air, but the history, heritage and nature you experience along the way.

I’ve explored the Roman forts along the length of Hadrian’s Wall, wandered through mediaeval perched villages in the south of France and strolled beneath orange and lemon groves in Mallorca. I’ve tried Nordic walking in the Lake District and soaked up London’s incredible skyline along the Thames Path.

Many specialist tour operators offer guided group walks that provide the opportunity to enjoy a shared experience with like-minded people – suitable for couples, friends or solo ramblers.

Or if you and a companion are happy to follow written instructions, choose the flexibility of a self-guided itinerary. Whichever you choose, you’ll find walks carefully graded to ensure you pick the right trip.

Luggage is transported from one comfortable bedroom to another, so all you need is a small day sack.

For group walks, try Ramblers Walking Holidays (www.ramblersholidays.co. uk; 01707 331 133) or HF Holidays (www.hfholidays. co.uk; 0345 470 8558). For a little less walking and a few more activities, look at Chapters Experience Holidays (www.chaptersholidays.co. uk; 01707 246 666).

Independent streak? Load Off Your Back provide support on Britain’s longdistance hiking trails (www.loadoffyourback.co.uk; 01707 386 726) or try self-guided programmes from Brittany to Bermuda with Headwater Holidays (www.headwater.com; 01606 369408). n