Planning your next big adventure? Whether you're an avid walker or someone who simply loves to explore beautiful landscapes, 2025 has been an incredible year for bucket-list-worthy destinations and routes. Over 40,000 travellers headed on a Macs Adventure self-guided walking trip this year, exploring some of the most stunning trails around the world. From the enchanting pathways of Scotland to the sunlit trails of Portugal, there’s an unforgettable experience waiting for everyone. 

This guide highlights 2025’s top walking 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. 

2025’s Most Popular Walking Routes

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

West Highland Way (Scotland) 

Considered Scotland’s most iconic long-distance trails, this 96-mile journey leads walkers through an unbeatable tapestry of Highland landscapes - craggy mountains, ancient forests, moorland plateaus, peaceful lochs, and friendly small towns—creating a deeply immersive Scotland experience from the very first step.  

Why we love it: A perfect balance of challenge and accessibility, with plenty of cosy inns along the way.  Plus, it's the first route we ever offered! 

Check out our West Highland Way itineraries >

Tour du Mont Blanc (France/Switzerland/Italy)   

Stunning Alpine scenery and the thrill of circling the Mont Blanc massif make this legendary trail a bucket-list favourite. Each day brings a new mix of dramatic glaciers, flower-filled valleys, rugged passes, lively mountain huts, and charming European villages, delivering a true high-alpine adventure unlike any other. 

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

Check out our Tour du Mont Blanc itineraries >

Coast to Coast (England)   

This iconic 192-mile cross-England route invites walkers to journey from the Irish Sea to the North Sea on a route packed with variety - towering Lake District fells, wide-open Dales landscapes, quiet stone-built villages, and sweeping North York Moors heather plains - creating a richly layered and quintessentially British walking experience. 

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

Check out our Coast to Coast itineraries >

Hadrian’s Wall Path (England)   

Following the line of the Roman Empire’s northern frontier, this 84-mile trail blends scenic countryside with one of the most fascinating historic landscapes in the UK. Walkers are treated to rolling farmland, dramatic ridgeline sections, well-preserved Roman forts, and sweeping views that make it clear why this wall has stood for nearly two millennia. 

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

Check out our Hadrian's Wall Path itineraries >

Cotswold Way (England)   

This charming 102-mile route winds along the Cotswold escarpment, passing golden villages, ancient beech woodlands, Iron Age hillforts, and patchwork countryside. It offers a gentle but deeply rewarding journey through one of England’s most storybook regions, rich in history, character, and postcard-worthy scenery. 

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

Check out our Cotswold Way itineraries >  

Camino Portuguese Coastal Way (Portugal)   

Stretching from Porto toward Santiago, this scenic Camino variation offers an enticing mix of oceanfront boardwalks, sandy beaches, fishing villages, forest pathways, and lively coastal towns. The rhythm of the Atlantic accompanies much of the walk, creating a refreshing and beautifully diverse pilgrimage experience. 

Why we love it: With the incredible variety of terrain, you can experience different types of walks all in one day. 

Check out our Camino Portuguese itineraries >

Great Glen Way (Scotland) 

Journey through the heart of Scotland’s spectacular Great Glen, walking from Fort William to Inverness along a route that showcases the dramatic beauty of the Highlands. Explore tranquil lochside paths, historic Caledonian Canal towpaths, and quiet forest trails, all while enjoying panoramic views of rugged mountains and the iconic Loch Ness, whose mysterious waters add a sense of magic to every step. 

Why we love it: 
A perfect mix of natural beauty, Highland charm, and unforgettable vistas. 

Check out our Great Glen Way itineraries >

2025's Rising Start Routes 

These routes soared in popularity this year - and show no signs of slowing down. 

North Coast 500 (Scotland) 

This iconic loop around the northern Highlands has surged in popularity - a whopping 192% increase on 2024 - as walkers and road-explorers chase wild, wind-swept coastlines, remote sea cliffs, dramatic beaches, jagged headlands, and the kind of raw Highland wilderness few other places can match. 

Why we love it: 
Jaw-dropping scenery, wild beaches, rugged cliffs, and memorable Highland hospitality. 

Check out our NC500 itinerary >

Pennine Way (England) 

Stretching along Britain’s ancient spine of hills and moorlands, this enduring National Trail is enjoying renewed interest as walkers seek a bold, long-distance adventure filled with sweeping panoramas, open moorland vistas, solitary ridges, quiet valleys, and a deep connection with wild, windswept England. 

Why we love it: 
Expansive views, heather-clad hills, and a rewarding sense of achievement on every stage. 

Check out our Pennine Way itineraries >

St Cuthbert’s Way (Scotland/England) 

This scenic and spiritual route linking the Borders to the Northumbrian coast continues to rise in popularity thanks to its tranquil mix of rolling hills, historic abbey sites, riverside paths, coastal marshes, and the tidal crossing onto Holy Island - offering a walking experience that’s equal parts peaceful retreat and historic discovery. 

Why we love it: 
Pilgrimage spirit, rolling countryside, and the unique tidal crossing to Lindisfarne. 

Check out our St Cuthbert's Way itineraries >

Via Francigena (Italy/Switzerland/France) 

This ancient pilgrimage route toward Rome is gaining fresh attention from modern walkers drawn by its rich history, cultural variety, and the chance to explore charming European villages, vineyards, woodland paths, alpine foothills, and medieval towns - offering a deeply rewarding journey through the heart of Europe. 

Why we love it: 
Varied landscapes, charming villages, and an authentic sense of pilgrimage. 

Check out our Via Francigena itineraries >

Camino del Norte (Spain) 

As a stunning coastal alternative to the traditional pilgrimage paths, this northern route along Spain’s Atlantic coastline is being added to many a bucket list. Beloved for its ocean-facing trails, dramatic cliffs, quiet fishing villages, lush green hills, and a peaceful walking rhythm far from the crowds, perfect for those looking for a more contemplative Camino experience. 

Why we love it: 
Coastal views, Basque culture, and fewer crowds- ideal for walkers seeking a more serene Camino experience. 

Check out our Camino del Norte itineraries >

Find Your Next Adventure 

2025 offered an incredible selection of 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. 

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 2026 blog to discover the adventures everyone will be talking about. 

Your next journey awaits - where will it take you?