6 days ago
'Easiest' walking routes with world's most stunning views named - with 1 in Scotland
A new global study has revealed the world's easiest walking routes to the world's most stunning views, with four UK trails making it onto the list
Hiking getaways have seen a surge in popularity, particularly for domestic trips. As a result, a recent worldwide study conducted by AllClear Travel Insurance pinpointed the most straightforward strolls leading to the globe's most spectacular vistas, with four UK paths making the cut.
Researchers scrutinised over 100 picturesque trails globally, ranking them according to difficulty based on distance, elevation, and average temperature. America's Artist Point in Yellowstone National Park topped the list.
Trailing closely behind were the USA's Cadillac Summit Loop in second and New Zealand's Milford Sound Foreshore Walk in third.
Securing joint tenth position were the UK's Porthdinllaen Circular in Wales and Northern Ireland's Giant's Causeway Blue Trail. The Old Man of Storr route in the Scottish Highlands, one of Scotland's most emblematic locations, secured the 11th spot on the list.
This trek leads you to the Old Man of Storr, a rock formation that came into existence millions of years ago, during the era when dinosaurs roamed the Earth.
Local folklore suggests that the rocks are the thumb of a giant now resting beneath the earth, while some believe the visage of an old man is etched into the stone, reports the Express.
Taking to TripAdvisor one hiker who enjoyed this route, wrote: "Breathtaking scenery. Lovely walk up. Yes it's steep, but take your time and enjoy it!
"Had a couple of loops around the car park before we found a space but let's be honest, it's incredible to even have a car park and toilet facilities at a Scottish place of interest so we were more than happen to wait. Anyone who expects more on a Scottish Island needs to hot tail it back to whatever city they come from. Enjoy it for what it is."
As reported by AllTrails, the Welsh Porthdinllaen Circular can be completed in just over an hour, offering breathtaking coastal views and possible seal sightings. An enthusiastic walker shared: "Stunning little coastal walk.
"There was a secluded beach just before the trail tells you to exit the golf course. I wasn't missing out on those! The way down is steep but oh so worth it!"
Similarly, visitors on AllTrails have showered the Giant's Causeway Blue Trail with glowing reviews, noting its jaw-dropping views and picturesque landscapes. One satisfied hiker wrote: "A must see in Northern Ireland. Great hike, surreal views. Make sure to bring water."
The final UK entry on the list was the Chee Dale Stepping Stones Circular, a picturesque trail skirting the edge of the Peak District.
The world's 15 easiest scenic walks:
Artist Point, USA
Cadillac Summit Loop, USA
Milford Foreshore Walk, New Zealand
Cape Flattery Trail, USA
Moraine Lake Shoreline Trail Canada
Blue Trail, Path of Love: Riomaggiore - Manarola, Italy
Moro Rock, USA
Grand Canyon South Rim, USA
Bastei - Basteribrücke Bridge, Germany
Porthdinllaen Circular, Wales, Giant's Causeway - Blue Trail, Northern Ireland, and Bryce Point Trail, USA
Old Man of Storr, Scotland
The Panorama Trail: Männlichen Kleine Scheidegg, Switzerland