Self-Guided Walks in Australia

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to big changes in lifestyle and travel. On the positive side, travel restrictions and lockdowns have led to a heightened appreciation of the restorative powers of nature. Many people are now seeking a way to actively immerse themselves in the "Great Outdoors". It is not surprising then that self-guided walking holidays are shaping up to be one of the best ways to escape to your dream natural setting.

Slow travel, including walking holidays, has been a longstanding tradition in Europe and the United Kingdom. This has led to the creation of a multitude of self-guided walking tours overseas where walkers follow the trail independently (with the aid of detailed track notes and maps) whilst the tour operator transfers luggage, books accommodation, organises meals and helps with any necessary transfers.

In recent years, many Australian tour operators have developed self-guided walking holidays akin to those in Europe and the UK. There is now an excellent array of domestic self-guided walking tours on offer within Australia. Some cater for those more focused on wining, dining and luxury lodgings; others are aimed at those wanting to get closer to nature. With the current "Holiday at Home" tourism campaign and restrictions on overseas travel, now is the perfect time to explore some of these tempting local offerings (both guided and self-guided are available).

There is a wide variety of scenery to choose from - coast, lakes, forests, valleys, desert and mountains. Each setting has its own special appeal and attractions. Summertime is the ideal season to visit spectacular parts of Tasmania, Victoria and New South Wales. Thankfully, with COVID numbers being successfully suppressed in all Australian states and territories, borders are progressively reopening, so planning and booking your therapeutic walking adventure can now begin!