With trends around adventure travel growing in leaps and bounds, and interest in long distance treks at an all-time high (nearly half a million people from around the world hiked the Camino de Santiago in 2023), the award-winning leader in sustainable adventure travel, the Wilderness Group – comprised of brands Wilderness Scotland, Wilderness Ireland, and Wilderness England – has a wide array of trips available that scratch the itch for an epic hike.
Whether it’s traversing the entire width of England, discovering one of Ireland’s famed coastal trails, challenging oneself on the most famous long-distance hiking route in Scotland, and many more, the Wilderness brands specialize in immersive and experiential outdoor adventures, made more impactful thanks to the knowledge and expertise of their award-winning local guides.
“One of the key attractions of epic hiking trips is the sense of accomplishment that comes from completing a challenging trek,” says Matt Loveland, managing director for Wilderness England. “Whether it’s reaching a summit, completing a long-distance trail, or exploring a remote wilderness area, finishing any one of these hikes leaves travelers with a profound sense of achievement and a lasting memory of their adventure.”
“In addition to the physical challenge, these trips also offer travelers the chance to connect with nature in a meaningful way,” continues Loveland. “Walking through pristine wilderness areas, spotting wildlife, and soaking in breathtaking views can be a deeply rewarding experience that fosters a sense of appreciation for the natural world. And this is on top of the connection made with others – there is a genuine bond that is formed when you undertake a long-distance trek in a group setting. Friendships are formed, often conversations take place that go deeper than you’d expect, sometimes major life choices are made as you have the time to really ponder and reflect without distraction.”
With several departures available throughout 2024, here is just a small sampling of some of the epic hikes available through the Wilderness Group brands:
“Breathtaking” “Challenging” “Unforgettable”
England Coast to Coast: Journeying from the Irish Sea to the North Sea, this epic trail starts in the small town of St. Bees and finishes in Robin Hood’s Bay. During the 13 days it takes to walk from one side of the country to the other, travelers pass through three national parks, covering over 100 miles (160km). Hiking the most spectacular sections of Alfred Wainwright’s walk, the trip follows in the footsteps of literary giants through the dramatic fells of the Lake District, the green rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales, and the sweeping expanses of the North York Moors National Park.
Led by Wilderness England’s expert guides, guests will discover on foot the area’s incredible history as they pass medieval castles, historic houses, storied monuments, and ancient standing stones. Relax each evening in handpicked accommodation and enjoy fresh local produce. The England Coast to Coast walk may be challenging, but it is also an incredibly rewarding hike showcasing Northern England’s scenery and heritage.
Key information:
- 13 days/12 nights
- There are four departures left in 2024: July 7-19, July 28-Aug 9, Aug 25-Sept 6, Sept 29-Oct 11
“Enchanting” “Invigorating” “Rewarding”
The Dingle Way: The Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry on Ireland’s west coast encompasses some of Ireland’s most extraordinary landscapes. Following an internationally renowned hiking trail that circumnavigates this unique corner of the world, travelers get to explore Dingle’s breathtaking scenery, ancient neolithic sites, award-winning cuisine, traditional Irish music, stunning coastal views, pristine white sand beaches, and colorful local characters up-close.
Led by one of Wilderness Ireland’s experienced outdoor guides, who provides unique insights into the history, geology, wildlife, folklore, and of course the people of this region, guests have the time and flexibility to explore these storied landscapes at their leisure.
Key Information:
- 7 days/ 6 nights
- Three departures left in 2024: Apr 20-26, July 6-12, Aug 17-23
“Iconic” “Spectacular” “Wild”
The West Highland Way: This is, bar none, one of the world’s best trails. A classic long-distance trek, it covers 95 miles (152km) from Milngavie on the outskirts of Glasgow to Fort William in the Highlands. The route travels along the ‘bonnie banks’ of Loch Lomond, across the atmospheric Rannoch Moor, past dramatic Glencoe, and over the high pass of the Devil’s Staircase before finishing in Fort William, at the foot of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis.
The magic of walking in Scotland can be distilled into this iconic route. It’s the sense of challenge, purpose, and camaraderie that envelopes this love letter to long-distance hiking. Through this standout trek, travelers can fully appreciate the stunning scenery, learn about the area’s history and legends, as well as identify the unique and varied flora and fauna along the route with the help and expert guidance of their Wilderness Scotland guide.
Key Information:
- 8 days / 7 nights
- Multiple departures available in 2024, including two new women’s only departures on June 10-17 and Sept 9-16
