Walking activity levels

Our expert activity level assessment explained. When assigning an activity level to a self-guided hike we use our 13-point route assessment to consider factors such as ascent, gradient, distance, as well as the nature of the terrain and even the destination itself.

Use the handy guide table to gauge your preferred activity level and then use the carousel to see the pre-filtered results for self-guided walking holidays that match.

It varies, depending on the activity level chosen. The handy table gives an indication of the approximate distances and ascents you can expect. For example, a level 2 self-guided walking holiday can be up to 15km a day with up to 400m of ascent. This information is on each individual trip page, so please familiarise yourself with this information for your chosen holiday.

Rough or uneven terrain usually reduces your walking pace and requires more concentration and physical effort. Higher altitude can also make walking feel harder. We therefore consider terrain, ascent, altitude, remoteness and other route characteristics alongside distance when assigning an activity level.

You do not need specialist navigation experience for our lower-level holidays. We provide straightforward navigation through our app and route notes, and the app alerts you if you go off route. On some higher-level or more remote trips, greater confidence following the app or a map may be required. Any specific requirements will be explained on the individual trip page.

To learn more about our Navigation App please click here

Some higher-level holidays include exposed paths or sections where a good head for heights is required. This becomes more likely from Level 5 upwards, but it is not determined by the level alone. We clearly highlight exposure and the need for a head for heights on each relevant trip page, so please check the terrain information carefully.

Scrambling is a form of adventurous walking where you may need to use your hands for balance or progress over short sections of steep or rocky ground. It is not rock climbing and technical equipment is not required. Some Level 5–7 holidays may include scrambling, and this will be clearly stated in the trip’s terrain information.

Walking poles are a matter of personal preference, but they can provide useful support on long walking days, uneven ground and descents. If you regularly use poles at home, we recommend bringing them. We also strongly recommend them for more demanding holidays where the terrain is rough or sustained.

Before you travel, you will find detailed distance, elevation and terrain information on each trip page, and our knowledgeable UK-based team can help you choose the right holiday. Many trips begin with a local briefing, and you will receive straightforward navigation through our app or route notes. We also provide local emergency contact details and access to a 24-hour emergency helpline while you are away.

Yes. If you are unsure, give one of our friendly UK-based sales team a call. We will talk through how far and how often you currently walk, the ascent and terrain you are comfortable with, your head for heights and the pace you prefer. We can then help you identify the most suitable holidays. This personal approach is why customers have been trusting us with their active walking holidays since 1985.

Yes, lots of our walking holidays are suitable for people travelling solo and we also offer some valuable tips for solo walkers in our customer documentation. However, there are a few trips we deem unsuitable, for example where the routes take you to more remote locations.

To view our short-list of recommended walking trips for solo’s click here