How to prepare for a self-guided walking holiday

From the jagged peaks of the Dolomites to the rolling pastures of Austria’s Tyrol region, there are some incredible places to embark on a walking holiday. And while you may already have your walking boots and walking poles at the ready, there are a few other things you could do to make the most of your time on the tracks.

Benefits of training before your walking holiday

Our walks range from easy lakeside strolls to more challenging routes along high-altitude peaks (our grades are explained here), and to make the most of these breathtaking landscapes, building up some stamina and endurance will help keep you on track.

Whether you’re departing in a few months or a few weeks, there are a few quick and easy things you can do to get ready, including training or adding some walking time into your everyday life.

Increase weekly walking

Little changes like walking to the shops instead of hopping in the car will help you get more miles in (and bed in your boots if they’re new). Even just walking two to three times a week can help.

Introduce cardio-based exercises

If you’ve opted for more challenging routes, like the Tour du Mont Blanc or walking from the Eiger to the Matterhorn amongst Switzerland’s most iconic peaks, then walking at a faster pace or taking the stairs instead of the lift can help ensure you feel fit for the next day’s walking.

Strength training

For more challenging routes, focusing on strengthening your legs can help you enjoy the ascents up the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau in the Bernese Oberland or while exploring Piedmont’s Valle Maira, for example.

Stretching

Simple stretches can benefit muscle joints at the end of each walk, so you can sit down with ease and sip that well-earned glass of wine.

Walking holidays for all

Our pick of three self-guided walking holidays, ranging from easy to challenging.

Gentle:
Generally flat but picturesque. Great if you're looking for a stroll in the Italian Dolomites for example.

Moderate:
Varied terrain with regular ascents and descents. Perfect for exploring Portugal's Valley of Gold and stopping for a crisp wine.

Challenging:
Longer days with fabulous scenery with significant ascents and descents. Those legs will need some strength for the wonderful Tour du Mont Blanc.

Preparing for an Inntravel self-guided walking holiday - Frequently Asked Questions

How to prepare for an Inntravel self-guided walking holiday - Frequenly Asked Questions

What are the benefits of training before a walking holiday?
Training before your Inntravel holiday helps build stamina and endurance, allowing you to fully enjoy the beautiful landscapes without feeling fatigued. Incorporating regular walking and cardio exercises into your routine can ensure you're physically prepared.

How can I build stamina for a walking holiday?
Increasing your weekly walking by just making small changes can really help you prepare. Walking to the shops or simply going for short walks two to three times a week will make a difference. Incorporating cardio-based exercises like stair climbing can also help if you're on a more challenging route.

What strength training should I do?
Focus on strengthening your legs, especially for more the challenging trails. By choosing exercises that build leg strength you will make steep ascents and descents more manageable.

What should I pack for a walking holiday?
We recommend items such as walking boots, a waterproof jacket, walking poles, a sunhat or woolly hat (depending on weather), sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. Packing for both the weather and terrain is key.

Why choose Inntravel for your self-guided walking holiday?
Inntravel offers holidays to suit your preferences, such as choosing the start date or adding extra nights at certain locations. Additionally, they provide luggage transfers, hand-picked accommodations near walking routes, and expert travel advice to ensure a seamless experience.

How to prepare for an Inntravel self-guided walking holiday

Plan your walking holiday with Inntravel

Preparing for an Inntravel self-guided walking holiday - Frequently Asked Questions