5 Reasons to go on a Hiking Holiday

Everyone loves a vacation. Escaping from normality, getting fresh air and experiencing new cultures, we return from vacations feeling refreshed, relaxed and energized (for cancellations, click here).
 
Whilst many people might consider a vacation time to do a whole lot of doing nothing, a hiking holiday can be a welcome and exciting challenge. By taking to the countryside we burn calories, learn new skills and see stunning views. But, for someone who’s never hiked, the idea might feel a little daunting. So, why should you go on a hiking holiday?  

 
Views
A hiking holiday always involves amazing views. Fact. In comparison to a beach holiday, you’ll see for miles and miles, crossing varied terrains and watching the landscape change as you move. Sunsets and sunrises come in buckets. Hikes such as Fern Canyon in Las Vegas are notoriously beautiful and photogenic so, if you’re a keen photographer, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Just make sure your phone has plenty of battery life!
 
Physical health
We all know that exercise is great for our health. Hiking can be a powerful workout that lowers our risk of heart disease, strengthens the core and boosts bone density. Plus, you’ll work on your balance and coordination. Whether you power walk or take a slow and steady approach, breathing in the fresh air, moving your body and working up a sweat will make you feel wonderful. You’ll be amazed by the benefits.
 
Mental health
Hiking can also be excellent for our mental health. We can easily get bogged down by the stress of life, especially when we have office jobs that prevent us from getting sufficient fresh air. Taking a hiking holiday will make you appreciate the little things in life; the way your body moves, the smell of fresh grass, the simple beauty of the skyline. Plus, hiking gives you the time to fully be at one with your thoughts. You can set a lot of things straight with a trail and your hiking boots.
 
Skills
When you go on a hiking holiday, you also develop a bunch of new skills. Hiking requires a lot of organization, as you’ll need to make sure that you’ve packed for all weather conditions and brought plenty of snacks. You might need to learn how to put up a tent, light a fire or forage for food. You’ll follow maps, cross varied terrains and meet fellow hikers. Many people find that hiking changes them, and they learn a lot about themselves whilst out in nature.  
 
Tranquility  
At the end of the day, a vacation should provide tranquility. Our lives are often busy, stressful and overwhelming, and we seek the opposite of this when we go away. A hiking holiday provides the best kind of tranquility because you can escape others completely. You’ll struggle to find an empty beach in a holiday resort, but after hiking for an hour you can reach an area of land that feels completely isolated and therefore, somehow, yours.