Whether you're someone who prefers to take day-long hikes or go for a casual stroll, there are plenty of photographic places that are waiting for you to explore. But how will you choose where to walk, given the many incredible scenic routes around the world?
If you don't want to travel far, check out the many hidden gems in the UK, such as in Cornwall and the Lake District. But if you prefer somewhere exotic, Vietnam and Japan have plenty of hiking trails that are waiting for you to conquer. The South Pacific Islands, with its coconut-fringed white sandy islands, is a haven for nature lovers. Greece may be a popular destination for tourists, but it has plenty of off-the-beaten-tracks ideal for fearless hikers. Here are some of the best destinations for photographic walks around the world.
1. The UK
The UK has plenty of hidden gems that offer the most scenic views for walking. If you're brave enough to take an epic 96-mile hike across Scotland, check out the West Highland Way. Your journey will take you to the majestic mountains of Glen Coe rising out of the desolate expanse of the Rannoch Moor. For beginners, the 5km walk across the Ness Islands would be a great start.
Both Cornwall and the Lake District offers some of the most picturesque hiking routes in England. As you explore Cornwall, you'll come across gorgeous landscape views consisting of beautiful flower fields, massive granite chambers, and turquoise blue waters. Walking on the fells in the Lake District National Park is something that every hiker should experience at least once in their life. The tightly packed landscape that features sparkling waters and magnificent rugged peaks are some of the most beautiful views you don't want to miss.
To make the most of your hiking trip, consider renting a campervan for your UK photographic adventure. That way, you can simply drive to all the scenic walking sites in the country, from Scotland to Cornwall and the Lake District.
2. Vietnam
Towering limestone cliffs, terraced rice fields, and highland valleys are some of the most spectacular landscapes you'll come across with when hiking across Vietnam. The country's varying landscapes offer hikers of all levels with unique and unforgettable hiking experiences.
Go for easy walks across historic villages to discover more about Vietnam's culture and history. But if you prefer serious hikes, you have plenty of options to choose. The Lang Bian Mountain, one of the country's tallest mountains, is a popular hiking destination for professional hikers. If you want to explore Vietnam's famous rice fields, which are best photographed in November, head to Sapa. This town boasts some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the country, not to mention mountain villages home to several ethnic minorities.
Vietnam is also home to beautiful National Parks with several hiking trails. Cat Ba National Park is the most popular of them. Hiking through the park will take you to discover Vietnam's most interesting wildlife, including civets and macaques.
3. The South Pacific Islands
If you dream of exploring the fabulous islands of the South Pacific, then you will surely not be disappointed. With its dramatic coastlines and unique hiking trails, walking through the South Pacific Islands is such a wonderful experience.
Whether you're heading to Fiji, Samoa, or Bora Bora, you will find luxury resorts that offer some of the world's most luxurious accommodations. After a long and tiring hike, treat yourself to a bit of luxury by staying in one of the South Pacific's wonderful overwater bungalows that you'll find hovering over beautiful stretches of clear blue sea.
The Lavena Coastal Trail should be on top of your list. This route will pass through several dramatic landscapes, including waterfalls where you can cool off after walking under the humid heat. In Samoa, the Mt. Matavanu Crater is a popular destination for avid hikers. It takes about 6 hours to conquer, but your hike will reward you of the most spectacular views of the mountain. Huahine Island in French Polynesia is also a joy to explore. Dubbed "Tahiti's best-kept secrets", the island has crystal clear lagoons with magnificent bays and white sand beaches. Bora Bora is also a haven for nature lovers. During your hike, you'll come across gorgeous views of the coastline surrounded by dramatic volcanic peaks.
4. Japan
There's more to Japan than its mouthwatering foods, beautiful temples, and religious sites. The country has some of the most scenic hiking trails that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you're taking casual day hikes or conquering long and strenuous trails, Japan offers abundant hiking opportunities with varying difficulty levels.
Mount Mitake is a popular hiking destination near Tokyo. It's an easy hike that will take you through unspoiled nature while passing through waterfalls, temples, and shrines. For the more serious hikers, conquering the famous Mount Fuji is a must. The hiking season starts in July and ends in September. During this time, there are plenty of hiking facilities in the trail that will make the journey a little bit easier. The hiking trails in Kamakura are also popular in Japan. These trails will take you through forested hills and some famous sites including temples and shrines.
5. The Greek Islands
The Greek Islands are famous for their gorgeous beaches where you can swim, relax and unwind. But if you prefer to go for a hike, you will find plenty of great hiking trails across the islands.
The best place to start your walk is in the untouched islands of Samothraki. This island has several empty beaches, and your walk will take you to peaceful oak forests with magical pools and waterfalls. The quiet island of Andros in the Cyclades is also a haven for hikers, thanks to its extensive trails. You can take the Andros Route, a 100 km trail that will take you through the countryside while passing along stone bridges and burbling brooks.
Of course, your visit to Greece won't be complete without stopping by Santorini, the most famous of all Greek Islands. Here, you can take casual walks along the caldera, while passing through white-washed villages that cling to the cliffs. The views will be even more romantic if you walk during sunset.
