(Photo : Elke Karin Lugert on Unsplash)

The simple act of walking in nature offers a break from our digital lives and busy schedules. As more people are looking for ways to reconnect with our environment as well as spend their free time more sustainably, walking holidays, such as Camino de Santiago, are becoming an increasingly popular choice. Here's why you should consider it, too. 

Full Immersion

Walking holidays are all about walking at your own pace and taking your surroundings in. Unlike when you pass a beautiful nature spot by car or train, it allows you to truly notice details that you would otherwise miss. Step by step, you can witness the changing light as the sun moves throughout the day, admire the morning dew on the grass, enjoy the bird songs along the way, and the serenity that comes as the dark falls. Enjoying the little things will become part of your daily experience, helping you feel more immersed in the environment. 

Wildlife Encounters

On foot, you are much more likely to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. Animals are less scared of walkers than they are of vehicles, so this is a great chance to observe them without causing any disturbance. Whether it's colourful butterflies or an encounter with a deer, each day brings new opportunities for watching animals go about their routines. 

Endless Destination Options

One of the greatest things about walking holidays is the ample choice of destinations you can enjoy, meaning you can find something that suits you many times over. Camino de Santiago alone has dozens of routes to choose from, each available in different lengths. For instance, the popular route of Camino de Santiago from Sarria can be completed in 7 days or in 11 days, depending on your preferences. Regardless, you can be sure that you will get to visit some of the most breathtaking landscapes and picturesque viewpoints. 

Local Flora and Fauna

Speaking of different destinations, walking holidays offer you the opportunity to get to know the local environment up close. Walking through Madeira will involve a very different experience compared to walking in Scotland. These differences are not just in the overall landscapes but also in the local flora and fauna. Notice the subtle difference in the way the forests smell and compare the species of the local trees or flowers. It's not about picking your favourite but, rather, recognising how beautiful and diverse our nature is. 

Environmental Awareness

As you make your way through different environments, you will start to notice how landscapes change due to human activity. Perhaps you will notice rubbish scattered on the local beach or trees being cut down for industrial use. This experience will bring a better understanding of environmental issues and how important it is to preserve our planet through sustainable practices.

How to plan your walking holiday?

Does a walking holiday in nature sound like the perfect getaway for you, but you are unsure how to get started? The Orbis Ways travel agency specialises in helping people plan their walking holidays, whether it's one of the Camino de Santiago routes or another nature trail. They will take care of all logistics for you, from booking accommodation to organising airport transfers, so all you have to do is show up and immerse yourself in the beautiful local nature. 

Final Word

A walking holiday is a simple yet amazing way to reconnect with nature. It forces you to slow down and take in the surrounding environment, gaining a deeper appreciation for it.