Tuesday, June 3, 2025
Across the UK, US, New Zealand, Canada, Italy, Germany, and Switzerland, some of the world’s most breathtaking and accessible walking trails await adventurers of all levels. These countries offer a remarkable blend of natural beauty and ease of exploration, making outdoor adventures enjoyable for everyone—from casual walkers to seasoned hikers. Highlighted for their stunning landscapes and gentle routes, these trails provide perfect opportunities to connect with nature, boost well-being, and create unforgettable memories without the challenge of strenuous climbs. This growing trend toward accessible scenic walks reflects a universal desire to experience the outdoors in a way that balances awe-inspiring views with comfort and relaxation.
Britain’s Most Scenic and Easiest Walking Trails Ranked Among the World’s Best
With staycations reaching an all-time high, more people in the UK are embracing outdoor adventures, lacing up their hiking boots, and exploring some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. This surge in local travel is reflected in a recent global study by AllClear Travel Insurance, which highlights four UK walking routes as some of the easiest and most rewarding scenic walks in the world.
The study examined over 100 breathtaking walking paths internationally, evaluating each trail’s difficulty based on distance, elevation gain, and weather conditions. The goal was to identify routes that combine ease of access with extraordinary natural beauty, catering to walkers of all levels — from casual hikers to seasoned ramblers.
Top International Walks: The Global Leaders
Dominating the list is Artist Point in Yellowstone National Park, USA. Renowned for its panoramic views over the Yellowstone Caldera and colorful geothermal features, this trail offers an accessible route to some of America’s most iconic scenery. Following closely, the Cadillac Summit Loop in Maine, USA, secured the second spot, famed for its gentle ascents and sweeping views of Cadillac Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean. The third place went to New Zealand’s Milford Sound Foreshore Walk, a gentle trail offering visitors stunning vistas of the world-famous fjord and its lush surroundings.
UK Walks Making a Mark Globally
Britain’s natural charm is well represented in the study, with four walks earning recognition among the easiest and most scenic worldwide. Sharing the tenth spot are two Welsh and Northern Irish routes — the Porthdinllaen Circular in Wales and the Giant’s Causeway Blue Trail in Northern Ireland.
The Porthdinllaen Circular is a gentle coastal walk on the Llyn Peninsula. It meanders through beautiful cliffs and beaches, ending at the quaint harbour village of Porthdinllaen, a spot steeped in local charm and history. The Giant’s Causeway Blue Trail offers walkers a chance to explore Northern Ireland’s UNESCO World Heritage site. The trail features unique basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity and a rugged coastline filled with legend and lore.
Just one place below, ranked eleventh, is Scotland’s iconic Old Man of Storr trail. This route leads to the famous jagged rock formation on the Isle of Skye, a symbol of Scottish natural beauty and mythology. The Old Man of Storr, formed over millions of years, is wrapped in legend — some locals believe the towering rocks represent a giant’s buried thumb, while others see the weathered face of an ancient man etched into the stone. face of an old man can be glimpsed in the stones. The trail itself offers a moderate climb with awe-inspiring views over the surrounding landscape, making it an unforgettable experience for all who venture there.
Completing the UK’s representation is the Chee Dale Stepping Stones Circular, located on the edge of the Peak District National Park in England. This scenic walk includes picturesque riverside paths, limestone gorges, and a series of stepping stones that make for a fun crossing adventure. Its relatively flat terrain and captivating natural features make it ideal for families and casual walkers looking to enjoy the Peak District’s countryside.
Why These Trails Matter
This global ranking highlights a growing trend toward accessible outdoor activities that allow people to connect with nature without demanding extreme physical exertion. With more individuals seeking relaxation and mental wellness through gentle walks surrounded by spectacular views, these routes offer the perfect balance between ease and awe.
The UK’s inclusion in this prestigious list reflects the country’s diverse and scenic walking opportunities, ranging from rugged coastlines to mountainous terrain. It also serves as an invitation to locals and tourists alike to explore the rich tapestry of natural beauty on their doorstep.
Complete List of the World’s 15 Easiest Scenic Walks
- Artist Point, USA
- Cadillac Summit Loop, USA
- Milford Sound Foreshore Walk, New Zealand
- Cape Flattery Trail, USA
- Moraine Lake Shoreline Trail, Canada
- Blue Trail, Path of Love: Riomaggiore to Manarola, Italy
- Moro Rock, USA
- Grand Canyon South Rim, USA
- Bastei – Basteibrücke Bridge, Germany
- Porthdinllaen Circular, Wales / Giant’s Causeway Blue Trail, Northern Ireland / Bryce Point Trail, USA
- Old Man of Storr, Scotland
- The Panorama Trail: Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg, Switzerland
- Chee Dale Stepping Stones Circular, England
The UK, US, New Zealand, Canada, Italy, Germany, and Switzerland boast some of the world’s most stunning and easy-to-navigate walking trails. These routes offer breathtaking scenery and accessible adventures perfect for nature lovers of all skill levels.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply someone looking to escape into nature for a day, these trails offer incredible options worldwide — with the UK standing tall among them. These trails offer gentle routes rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, allowing walkers to enjoy stunning landscapes without requiring intense physical exertion. So next time you want to recharge with a peaceful walk, consider these spectacular routes that perfectly blend accessibility with awe-inspiring vistas.
Tags: Canada, Destination News, easy hiking trails, germany, Italy, Nature Travel, new zealand, Scenic Walks, Switzerland, travel destinations, Travel News, UK, US, walking holidays