We’ve put together five of the top hikes around the World that you need to discover…
There’s something about hiking that is truly special. It allows you to explore and find places that are inaccessible other than by foot, leading you to some of the most beautiful and memorable destinations. It is also a way to escape from the mania of city life and be at one with nature, to take in the fresh air and clear your head. With this in mind, we have put together five of the top hikes around the world you need to discover…
Bhutan
Where: Tergo La Trek, Haa Valley
Why: Bhutan is a Buddhist Kingdom on the eastern edge of the Himalayas and is known for its fortresses, monasteries and dramatic landscapes. The Tergo La Trek is one of the lesser known hikes in Bhutan, but the sheer beauty of it made it a dead cert in our top hikes around the World. Challenging both physically and mentally you start at an altitude of 3,500 metres and at points reach 4,150 metres. You will journey through farmland tracks, mountain paths and forest trails, each with more breathtaking views than the last. The route is largely untouched and while you are unlikely to pass fellow explorers you will see yak herders’ camps and the third tallest mountain in the world – Kanchenchunga Mountain.
Find out more: www.bluepoppybhutan.com/en/itineraries/trek-itineraries/
Brecon Beacons, Wales
Where: Pen y Fan
Why: Brecon Beacons National Park, South Wales, spans over 500 square miles of serene and secluded countryside. Home to the highest peak in South Wales, Pen y Fan, offers hikers the chance to climb 886 metres above sea level, whilst enjoying spectacular panoramic views of the park beneath. You can choose from numerous routes to ascend the mountain, including the opportunity to conquer neighboring peaks Corn Du, Cribyn and Fan y Big. The most dramatic way to reach the summit starts from Cwm Gwdi carpark and takes around four hours to complete the seven mile route.
Find out more: www.breconbeacons.org/walking
(Photo credit: Dan Santillo)
Hawai‘i
Where: Lē‘ahi (Diamond Head), O‘ahu
Why: Hawaii is a destination we couldn’t leave off our top hikes around the World list and this hike is one you can’t miss out on. With panoramic 360 degree views from the top of the iconic state monument, Diamond Head is a must do when in O’ahu. The trail will see you journey up and down stairs, in tunnels and through old military bunkers before reaching the 760 food summit, offering views of Waikīkī, Wai‘anae, the Pacific Ocean and the Ko‘olau Mountains.
For more information: www.gohawaii.com/islands/oahu/regions/honolulu/leahi-diamond-head
Peru
Where: Choquequirao
Why: Machu Picchu’s sister site, Choquequirao, is popular for travellers looking to explore the depths of Peru. Hidden deep in the Salkantay Mountain Range, only 30 per cent of the mountain has currently been excavated. It is separated from Machu Picchu by the peak of Nevado Salkantay (6,264 metres) and overlooks the Apurímac River, offering unbeatable 360 degree views of the surrounding ranges. The journey takes a minimum of four days through the spectacular Apurímac Canyon where the rare Peruvian Condor can often be seen.
For more information: www.peru.travel
Scottsdale, Arizona
Where: Camelback Mountain
Why: Scottsdale is a desert city in Arizona and a hiker’s paradise. The sunrise hike up Camelback’s Echo Canyon trail in the area’s most prominent landmark, Camelback Mountain. The 76-acre park is a favourite hiking and climbing spot, drawing thousands of hikers each year to its sheer red cliffs, Praying Monk rock formation and familiar camel’s silhouette. Hiking to the top is not for beginners, with strenuous climbs over tricky paths, however there are a few easier routes that allow close-up exploration around Camelback’s base. Hikers can enjoy the 360-degree views of the Phoenix and Scottsdale Metropolitan area, as well as Downtown Phoenix in the southwest, Scottsdale in the east, Phoenix in the west and Paradise Valley along the north side of the camel. If it is a clear day, the many mountain ridges enclosing what is coined as the Valley of the Sun will be revealed.
For more information: www.experiencescottsdale.com
