Bring Your Barcode: UK parkruns to Pair With Your Next UTracks Trip

If you've ever found yourself in a strange town on a Saturday morning and gone looking for the nearest parkrun, you already know where this is heading. For everyone else: parkrun is a free, weekly, timed 5km event held in parks and green spaces all over the world. You walk it, jog it or run it (entirely your call), and there's no pressure to be fast. Register once at parkrun.com, print your barcode or save it to your phone, and that same barcode works at any of the 2,000-plus events worldwide.

That last part is the good bit. Your barcode doesn't care which corner of the country you're in, which makes parkrun a brilliant thing to fold into a walking or cycling holiday closer to home. The UK has more parkrun events than anywhere else on earth — over 750 of them — and a remarkable number sit right on or near some of the country's best long-distance trails.

We've gone through the data and matched parkrun locations to UTracks UK trips to find the best pairings. Here are some of our favourites.

Why Combine a parkrun With Your Walking or Cycling Holiday

A parkrun is a low-key, surprisingly lovely way to get the measure of a place. You'll be among locals rather than tourists, the route almost always takes in a park, riverbank or stretch of coast worth seeing, and the volunteers and regulars are generally happy to point you towards the best coffee in town afterwards.

It's also a genuinely useful bookend for an active trip. A gentle 5km the morning before you set off is a great way to shake out your legs and make sure your shoes are properly laced in before they really matter. And at the other end of a trip, a Saturday parkrun makes a lovely victory lap — a relaxed way to mark everything you've just walked or cycled.

All parkrun events are held on Saturday mornings, all are free, and all you need is a barcode you've printed once and kept in your pack.

Northern England: Newcastle parkrun and Hadrian's Wall

Newcastle parkrun takes place every Saturday at 9:00am in Exhibition Park, a short walk from the city centre, with a flat, two-lap course around the park's paths and open grass. It's a friendly, well-attended event with a strong local running club presence — and the café inside the park is open from the finish line.

The connection to Hadrian's Wall is a neat one. Our Hadrian's Wall Walk runs the full width of northern England from Newcastle to Carlisle, following the line of Rome's most ambitious engineering project across the Northumberland moorland. Newcastle is the eastern starting point, which makes the Saturday morning parkrun a natural warm-up before you set off west. Five kilometres around a Victorian park, then five days along a 2,000-year-old wall.

There are good options at the other end too: Carlisle parkrun is held in Rickerby Park on the banks of the River Eden, and sits right at the walk's western finish point for a satisfying Saturday conclusion.

>> View Newcastle parkrun

>> View A Taste of Hadrian's Wall on Foot

The Lake District: Keswick parkrun and the Lake District Walk

Keswick parkrun is one of the most scenic 5km events in England. It runs along the shores of Derwentwater, through Crow Park and Cockshot Wood, with the fells rising above the far bank. It starts at 9:00am on Saturdays in Fitz Park, a short walk from the town centre, and finishing with the whole of Keswick's café scene in front of you is frankly not a hardship.

Keswick sits at the heart of our Lake District Walk, which takes in Ambleside, Grasmere, Coniston and the surrounding fells over the course of the trip. If your itinerary brings you through Keswick on a Saturday — and it very likely will — the parkrun is an easy add-on before the day's walking begins. Ambleside and Grasmere also have their own parkrun events if a different day falls on a Saturday.

The same logic applies to our Lake District E-Bike trip: Keswick is a key stop on the cycling route, and the parkrun makes for a perfect pre-ride morning stretch.

>> View Keswick parkrun

>> View A Taste of the Lake District on Foot

Scotland: Milngavie parkrun and the West Highland Way

This is perhaps the neatest pairing on the list. Milngavie parkrun (pronounced mul-GUY, for the uninitiated) takes place every Saturday at 9:30am in Allander Park, a pleasant flat course through woodland and along the Allander Water. It's about 20 minutes by train from Glasgow city centre.

The reason it belongs here is simple: Milngavie is the official southern starting point of the West Highland Way. The trail's famous granite marker sits right in the town centre, and the 96-mile walk to Fort William begins from here. Our West Highland Way trip follows the full route through Loch Lomond, Glen Coe and the Highlands. Arrive on a Friday, do the parkrun on Saturday morning, then set off along the Way — it's about as purposeful a pre-trip 5km as you'll find anywhere.

And at the northern end, Fort William has its own parkrun on the shore of Loch Linnhe, ready to serve as a finish-line celebration when you arrive.

>> View Milngavie parkrun

>> View A Taste of the West Highland Way & Glencoe

Yorkshire: Harrogate parkrun and the Dales Way

Harrogate parkrun runs every Saturday at 9:00am through the Stray, the 200-acre expanse of open grassland that wraps around the spa town's centre. It's a flat, fast, well-organised event — usually one of the best-attended in Yorkshire — and the town's famous tea rooms and the Betty's café on Parliament Street are within easy walking distance of the finish.

Harrogate sits near the eastern end of the Dales Way, the 80-mile trail that links Ilkley in the Yorkshire Dales with Bowness-on-Windermere in the Lake District. A number of our Dales Way trips pass through or near Harrogate, and timing your arrival to catch a Saturday morning parkrun is entirely straightforward. Otley, Ilkley, Knaresborough and Sedbergh all have parkrun events along the route too, giving you options throughout the week if Saturday falls at the right point in your itinerary.

>> View Harrogate parkrun

>> View the Dales Way

Cornwall: Penzance parkrun and the Cornwall Walk

Penzance parkrun meets at 9:00am on Saturdays at Newlyn Coombe, a sheltered wooded valley just outside the town, with a straightforward out-and-back course along the stream path. It's a small, relaxed event with a distinct end-of-the-line charm — you are, after all, about as far south-west as England goes.

Penzance is the starting point of our Cornwall Walk, which follows the coast path north from Penzance through St Ives, Newquay and the dramatic north Cornish coast. Slot the parkrun in on the Saturday morning before your walk begins and you'll have your sea legs before you've even reached the cliff edge. The Cornwall coast also has parkrun events at Truro, Newquay, Falmouth, Padstow and Perranporth — a reasonable chance one of them lines up with a Saturday on your itinerary.

>> View Penzance parkrun

>> View A Taste of Cornwall on Foot

Scotland: St Andrews parkrun and the Fife Coastal Path

St Andrews parkrun takes place every Saturday at 9:30am in Craigtoun Country Park, a few kilometres outside the town, on a course through woodland and around the park's ornamental lake. It's a gentler, greener setting than you might expect given that you're in the home of golf, and all the better for it.

St Andrews is the northern endpoint of the Fife Coastal Path, which runs for 117 miles around the Fife coast from the Forth bridges through the fishing villages of the East Neuk to St Andrews. Finishing a multi-day coastal walk in one of Scotland's most famous towns and capping it with a Saturday morning parkrun in a country park is a very satisfying way to end a trip. The path also passes through or near Kirkcaldy, Burntisland, Anstruther, Crail and Leven, most of which have their own parkrun events should Saturday fall mid-route.

>> View St Andrews parkrun

>> View A Taste of the Fife Coastal Path

Find a parkrun Near Your Next UK Trip

These six pairings are just a starting point. We've matched over 230 UK parkrun events to UTracks trips across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland — so wherever your route takes you, there's a good chance a Saturday morning 5km is waiting nearby.

Before your next trip, have a quick scan of the map at parkrun.org.uk and see what's close to your start point, end point or any overnight stop that falls on a Saturday. Register once, keep your barcode handy, and build in the morning. It costs nothing, it's one of the best ways to meet locals anywhere in the country, and it might just become your favourite part of the holiday.

Done a parkrun on one of your UTracks trips? We'd love to hear where. Let us know in the comments below.

Webinar: Exploring the Trails of Eastern Europe

Hear Kate, one of UTracks' active travel experts, share everything you need to know about walking and cycling in Eastern Europe. In this session she draws on her own travel experiences to compare key regions including Transylvania, Montenegro, Bulgaria and the Peaks of the Balkans, covering landscapes, trail conditions and what daily life on the trail is really like.

Whether you are drawn to gentle village-to-village walks or more adventurous mountain routes, this webinar covers the practical considerations — pacing, accommodation styles and cultural highlights — to help you decide which corner of Eastern Europe best suits your interests and experience.

About Walking and Cycling in Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe offers some of the continent's most rewarding active travel, yet it remains one of the least explored corners of the region on foot or by bike. From the forested hills and medieval villages of Transylvania to Bulgaria's mountain ranges and the dramatic highlands of the Peaks of the Balkans, this is a part of Europe where the trails are quieter and the sense of discovery is real.

Walk between traditional Saxon villages in Transylvania, follow ridgelines through the Bucegi or Rila mountains, or trek the cross-border Peaks of the Balkans trail through Montenegro, Albania and Kosovo. For cyclists, quiet back roads link historic towns and remote valleys, with itineraries ranging from gentle countryside routes to longer cross-country journeys through some of Europe's most untouched landscapes.

With luggage transfers and carefully selected accommodation arranged in advance, our Eastern Europe trips allow you to focus entirely on the trail itself. Whether you choose a self-guided itinerary at your own pace or a small group trip with local expertise, walking and cycling in Eastern Europe offers an authentic experience of a region that still feels genuinely off the beaten track.

From the medieval streets of Sighișoara to the limestone peaks above Kotor Bay, Eastern Europe rewards active travellers with raw scenery, warm hospitality and the rare feeling of having the trail almost entirely to yourself.

>> View all Eastern Europe walking tours

>> View all Eastern Europe cycling tours

Webinar: Cycling in France

Hear Kate, one of UTracks' active travel experts, share everything you need to know about cycling in France. In this session she covers training advice, what to pack, tour inclusions and some of her favourite cycling itineraries across this extraordinary country.

Whether you are considering your first cycling holiday in France, wondering which region suits you best, or simply looking for practical advice before you go, this webinar provides honest, personal insight to help you plan with confidence.

>> View all France cycling tours

About Cycling in France

France is a country that needs no introduction. Fabulous cities, breathtaking countryside, rich history and world-class food and wine have cemented it as one of Europe's great cycling destinations. With so many regions to explore and itineraries to choose from, deciding where to ride will be the hardest part of your trip.

Explore the medieval castles and historic villages of the Dordogne, or head to the Loire Valley to tour majestic chateaux, gardens and vineyards by bike. Visit WWII landing sites and sample local cheese, cider and calvados in Normandy, or indulge in gourmet food and wine as you ride along canals and through vineyards in Burgundy. Discover the endless vineyards, fairytale villages and unique Alsatian culture along the Rhine, or follow the famous French Way of Saint James through the Pyrenees to Spain.

With luggage transfers and carefully selected accommodation arranged in advance, our France cycling trips allow you to focus entirely on the ride itself. Whether you choose a gentle centre-based itinerary, a bike and barge journey along the waterways, or a point-to-point adventure through the French countryside, there is a cycling holiday in France to suit every interest and fitness level.

From the iconic Avenue Verte from Paris to London to the rugged landscapes of Corsica, France rewards cyclists with an extraordinary variety of scenery, culture and cuisine at every turn.

>> View all France cycling tours

>> View all self-guided cycling tours

>> View all guided cycling tours

The Walkers: The Real Salt Path Podcast

Raynor Winn's memoir, The Salt Path, was a literary phenomenon. Millions of readers were captivated by this true story of financial ruin, terminal illness and two people who, when faced with nothing, chose to walk. The book spent years on the bestseller lists, inspired a major film starring Jason Isaacs and Gillian Anderson, and introduced countless walkers to England's most spectacular long-distance trail, the South West Coast Path.

Then the story took an unexpected turn.

When journalist Chloe Hadjimatheou from the Observer received a tip-off that the memoir may not be the "unflinchingly honest" account it claimed to be, she began to investigate. What followed was a podcast that has gripped listeners and raised profound questions about truth, storytelling and the line between memoir and fiction.

How far can you bend the truth before it begins to break?

How to Listen to The Salt Path Podcast

The Salt Path podcast is available to stream now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all major podcast apps. Search for "The Salt Path" to find it.

Hiking in Bulgaria's Rila Mountains

Where are the Rila and Pirin Mountains?

Our trip began in Sofia, Bulgaria's compact and very walkable capital. From there, we headed south into the Rila Mountains, home to Mount Musala, the highest peak in the Balkans, and the spectacular Seven Rila Lakes. Later in the week, we crossed into the Pirin Mountains, a rugged range of granite peaks, glacial lakes and high alpine huts.

The trip also takes in the Rila Monastery, one of Bulgaria's most important cultural sites, and finishes in Bansko, a charming alpine town that locals describe as Bulgaria's answer to Chamonix.

Why I Chose Bulgaria

After several alpine trips through Western Europe, I was ready for something a little less travelled. Bulgaria had been on my radar for a while, partly for the mountains and partly out of curiosity, and the timing finally lined up.

I'd heard the trails were quieter, the food was good, and the scenery genuinely rivalled the Alps. All of that turned out to be true, and the trip surprised me in plenty of other ways too.

How I Prepared

Having hiked in the Alps and the Balkans before, I knew the kind of fitness this trip would ask for. Bulgaria's mountains are no gentler than the Alps, and a couple of the days are genuinely demanding.

I focused on cardio and uphill stamina in the lead-up, with regular sessions on the step machine and weekend hikes with a weighted day pack. One thing worth flagging: the trip includes one night in a mountain hut at altitude, with shared dorms, no showers and limited common space. It's only one night, but it's worth being mentally prepared for it.

Accommodation in Bulgaria

Accommodation is a mix of comfortable family-run guesthouses and one night in a basic mountain hut. The guesthouses were warm and welcoming, with hearty home-cooked dinners and balconies looking onto the mountains.

The standout for me was Bansko. We stayed two nights at a lovely hotel in the centre of town, which gave us a chance to enjoy the village, the spa culture and a proper rest day in the middle of the trip. Tevno Ezero hut, by contrast, is genuinely basic, but the remote location and the after-dinner stillness were a highlight in their own way.

What the Scenery is Like

The best word I can use is varied.

One day, you're climbing to the Balkans' highest peak surrounded by snow-capped ridges. The next, you're walking past glacial lakes through quiet valleys with barely another hiker in sight. The Seven Rila Lakes are a genuine highlight, a chain of lakes set into a high alpine bowl, and the descent into forested valleys on the final day was unexpectedly beautiful.

The Rila Monastery deserves a special mention. Tucked into a forested gorge, painted in vivid frescoes and surrounded by mountains, it's one of the most striking buildings I've ever stood in front of.

Food and Drink

Bulgarian mountain food is hearty, simple and genuinely good. Most evenings started with a soup, often a local bean soup that became a running joke by the end of the week, followed by something like moussaka, pork with potatoes, or a vegetable tagine. Dessert was usually cake or fresh watermelon.

The Shopska salad, Bulgaria's take on a Greek salad with crumbled white cheese, became a daily ritual. Lunches were picnic-style, with the group stopping at a local grocery store to put together what we wanted each day.

How Challenging is the Trail?

I'd put this trip at the higher end of moderate to challenging. The summit day on Mount Musala is a long climb at altitude, and the day across the central Pirin into the mountain hut is genuinely tough, with technical boulder sections and a sustained ascent.

The descents are the part most people underestimate. Bulgaria's mountain trails are often rocky and uneven, and steady footing makes a real difference, especially on the longer downhill stretches. Hiking poles are well worth bringing.

That said, the daily distances are not extreme, and the rest day in Bansko is well placed. If you're comfortable in alpine terrain and have the fitness to match, you'll be in your element.

What Made This Trip Special

What surprised me most was just how uncrowded most of it was.

There were stretches where we walked for hours without seeing another group. The mountain huts were lively but not packed. Even the Rila Monastery, which is a major cultural site, felt manageable to visit. After hiking in some of Europe's busier ranges, that sense of space made the experience feel genuinely different.

The other standout was Bansko. It has the alpine charm of Chamonix or Cortina, with spas, mountain restaurants and a relaxed evening atmosphere, but at a fraction of the price and without the crowds. I'd happily go back just for that.

Final Thoughts

For experienced mountain walkers looking for a genuinely rewarding alpine hike without the queues of the Alps, Bulgaria is hard to fault. The mountains are big, the food is hearty, and the country itself is full of character. It feels like the kind of destination that won't stay quiet forever, so it's a good time to go.

>> View the Bulgaria Mountains and Monasteries Guided Hike

>> View all alpine hiking tours

Hiking in Gran Paradiso: A Great Alternative to the TMB and Dolomites

Where is Gran Paradiso?

Our journey began in Bourg-Saint-Maurice, a gorgeous alpine town in France that is well worth an extra day or two. From there, we crossed into Italy's Aosta Valley, home to Gran Paradiso National Park.

Established in 1922, it's Italy's first national park and one of its most spectacular. The hike finishes at the historic Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II, a mountain lodge famous for its royal origins, unique architecture and its role as a base for climbers attempting Gran Paradiso.

Why I Chose Gran Paradiso

Ever since completing the Tour du Mont Blanc in 2018 and a guided hike in the Dolomites in 2023, I've been hooked on big mountain adventures.

I'd been dreaming of my next bucket-list alpine hike and, if I'm honest, I'm slightly obsessed with Italy. The final push came from my Dolomites guide, who told me Gran Paradiso was her favourite region: just as spectacular, but far less crowded than Mont Blanc. That sealed it.

How I Prepared

From past hikes in Europe, Canada and the Himalayas, I knew one thing: I never do enough stair training.

This time, I added regular sessions on the step machine at the gym. Surprisingly, it became something I looked forward to. Turns out a 30-minute Netflix episode makes it fly by.

I also started adding weight to my daypack during morning dog walks. On this trek you only carry essentials (water, lunch, rain gear), but training with extra weight made the real thing feel much easier.

Accommodation in Gran Paradiso

The accommodation here is simpler than what you'll find on the TMB or in the Dolomites, and honestly, that's part of the charm.

The huts feel more traditional and remote, offering a glimpse into the early days of alpine trekking. They're rustic but comfortable, with warm beds and hearty meals, all set in truly breathtaking locations. It adds to the sense of adventure.

What the Scenery is Like

The best word I can use is: wild.

The mountains feel bigger, more rugged and more untouched than on many popular alpine routes. The trails are quieter, with long stretches where we didn't see another hiker, but the trade-off is incredible wildlife. Spotting herds of ibex and chamois in their natural habitat was a definite highlight.

And then there was the glacier. Seeing one up close, especially as they become increasingly rare, felt incredibly special. Walking alongside it was one of those moments that really stays with you.

Food and Drink

After each day's hike, the routine was simple: shower, change, then straight to a cold beer or a glass of Italian wine while reliving the day.

The food in this region is quite different from classic Italian dishes. Influenced by the Aosta Valley and Piedmont, meals are hearty and perfect for cooler mountain evenings. Think rich stews, polenta, rice dishes and warming soups. Lunches featured local cheeses, cured meats and fresh salads prepared by our guide.

And of course, there's génépi, a local herbal liqueur made from alpine plants. I made it a bit of a ritual to try it most evenings.

How Challenging is the Trail?

I found Gran Paradiso slightly more challenging than both the TMB and the Dolomites, but in a rewarding way.

The main difference is the terrain. While the TMB passes through villages and well-maintained paths, Gran Paradiso feels more rugged, with rocky and uneven trails throughout the national park. The most challenging part wasn't necessarily the climbs. It was the constant focus needed on footing, especially on descents. Hiking poles made a big difference for balance and stability.

What Made This Trip Special

What surprised me most was the sense of wildness.

In a part of the world where many iconic trails are becoming increasingly busy, Gran Paradiso still feels remote and untouched. That sense of solitude, combined with the dramatic landscapes and wildlife, made the experience feel truly special. Another favourite memory was the late summer alpine swims. The lakes sit at over 2000 metres, fresh and incredibly refreshing.

Reaching Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II was another standout moment. Not only does it feel like a real achievement to get there, but you're surrounded by climbers preparing to summit the next morning. It adds an exciting, almost electric atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

If you're looking for an alpine hike that combines dramatic scenery, challenging trails and a genuine sense of wilderness without the crowds of more famous routes, Gran Paradiso is hard to beat. It's a place that feels raw, real and a little bit magical.

>> View the Gran Paradiso Guided Hike

>> View all alpine hiking tours

Webinar: How to Prepare for an Alpine Hike in Europe

>> View all alpine hiking tours

About Hiking in the Alps

The European Alps offer some of the world's most rewarding walking, but they also demand a level of preparation that sets them apart from gentler trails. From the high passes of the Tour du Mont Blanc to the dramatic rock towers of the Dolomites and the wild ridgelines of the Carpathians, alpine terrain is varied, exposed and subject to rapid changes in weather. Getting your gear right makes all the difference.

The good news is that with the right footwear, a sensible layering system and a well-packed day bag, hiking in the Alps is well within reach for walkers of a wide range of abilities and experience levels. Knowing what to bring, and just as importantly what to leave behind, is the foundation of a confident and enjoyable alpine trip.

With luggage transfers and carefully selected accommodation arranged in advance on all UTracks alpine trips, you only need to carry what you need for the day. That makes packing smart not just a comfort consideration but a practical one, and Kate's advice is tailored precisely to this style of walking holiday.

From understanding how to manage layering in changeable conditions to choosing the right footwear for mixed terrain, the guidance in this webinar is designed to help you step onto the trail feeling prepared, comfortable and ready to enjoy every day in the mountains.

>> View all alpine hiking tours

Bike and Barge Tours in Europe 2027

A bike and barge tour is one of Europe's great travel experiences and one of the smartest ways to explore the continent in 2027. Unpack just once aboard your floating hotel, cycle from village to village each day, and watch the landscapes change from your cabin window as the barge glides quietly along rivers and canals. It's sociable, unhurried and endlessly varied.

We've released our 2027 dates for guided and self-guided bike and barge holidays across Europe. Browse by destination below, or explore our Top 10 Bike & Barge lists for inspiration.

Bike and Barge Tours in France

Our pick for 2027 is the ever-popular Provence by Bike and Barge, a perennial favourite that never disappoints. Cycle through a revolving landscape of wild Camargue wetlands where horses roam freely, sun-drenched Provençal villages, vineyards that inspired Van Gogh, and stretches of Mediterranean coastline. It's one of the most scenically varied bike and barge routes in Europe.

> View the Provence Bike & Barge tour
> View all bike and barge tours in France

Bike and Barge Tours along the Danube

The Danube by Bike & Barge is a classic European journey that delivers on every level. Beginning in the charming German city of Passau, the route follows the Danube through Austria, passing through the breathtaking Wachau Valley (a UNESCO World Heritage landscape of rolling vineyards, hilltop castles and riverside villages) before arriving in Vienna, one of Europe's most magical capital cities.

For those who want to venture further, barge itineraries continue to Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia and Romania, making the Danube one of the most expansive bike and barge corridors in the world.

> View the Danube by Bike & Barge tour
> View all bike and barge tours along the Danube

Bike and Barge Tours in the Netherlands

The Netherlands was made for bike and barge travel. An extraordinary network of canals and waterways, famously flat terrain and a cycling culture second to none make Holland the natural home of this style of holiday. Choose from a range of UTracks itineraries including the iconic Tulip Tour, family-friendly options and the popular Amsterdam to Bruges route. Most trips offer the option to upgrade to a deluxe vessel for a more comfortable, premium experience on the water.

> View all bike and barge tours in the Netherlands

Bike and Barge Tours in Germany

The Moselle Valley is one of Germany's finest bike and barge destinations. The river winds north from the Vosges Mountains in Alsace, tracing the Luxembourg border before flowing through 545 kilometres of Germany to meet the Rhine at the cultural city of Koblenz. The valley it carves through is extraordinary, with steep vineyard terraces, romantic riverside towns and a history stretching back through Roman times to the medieval period. Germany's oldest city, Trier, lies along the route.

Beyond the Moselle, self-guided trips explore Berlin, Mainz, Cologne and the Rhine Valley, offering one of the most diverse ranges of cycling itineraries of any European destination.

> View the Moselle by Bike & Barge tour
> View the top 7 bike and barge tours in Germany
> View all bike and barge tours in Germany

Bike and Barge Tours in Belgium

Chocolate, beer, waffles and some of Europe's finest medieval cities: Belgium is a wonderfully rewarding destination for a bike and barge tour. Itineraries connect Bruges to Paris and Bruges to Amsterdam, taking in Ghent and the Flemish countryside along the way. The cycling is easy, the scenery is beautiful and the food stops are very hard to pass by.

> View the best bike and barge tours in Belgium
> View all bike and barge tours in Belgium

Bike and Barge Tours in the Veneto, Italy

The Veneto region of northeastern Italy is one of Europe's most rewarding bike and barge destinations. Cycle through the romantic waterways and canals that wind between Venice, Padua and the Brenta Riviera, a landscape of elegant Palladian villas, vineyards producing Prosecco and Amarone, and the extraordinary backdrop of the Dolomites on the horizon. Days on the water and in the saddle here feel like cycling through a Renaissance painting.

> View all bike and barge tours in the Veneto

Bike and Barge Tours in Scotland

For something truly different, Scotland's bike and barge tours offer a spectacular alternative to the classic European canal experience. Cruise the Caledonian Canal, one of the great engineering achievements of the 19th century, through the heart of the Scottish Highlands, linking a chain of dramatic lochs including the legendary Loch Ness. Each day brings wild Highland landscapes, historic castles and scenery that stops you in your tracks. This is bike and barge with a very different character, and all the more memorable for it.

> View all bike and barge tours in Scotland

Want to explore more? Browse the full range of guided and self-guided bike and barge tours below, including destinations in Hungary, Czech Republic and beyond.

> Guided bike and barge tours
> Self-guided bike and barge tours

Or explore our bike and sail trips in Greece and Croatia.

> Bike and sail tours

Will you be taking a bike and barge tour in Europe in 2027? Let us know where you're planning to explore in the comments below.

Walking the Islands of Malta: Traveller Tale

By Pat Rochon

We arrived in Malta in early spring, and the Islands of Malta Walk quickly became one of those trips I know we'll always remember. I'm not sure exactly what I expected, but what I found was a destination that felt incredibly alive. Wildflowers in bloom everywhere, lush green countryside surrounding us at every turn, and trails so quiet it often felt like we had the landscape entirely to ourselves. Here's how it unfolded, day by day.

Day 1: Arriving in Rabat

Malta is so small that we took an Uber from Valletta's Old Town mid-morning and were in central Rabat within 15 minutes. While local buses are available, navigating luggage over cobblestone streets isn't the most practical option, so a taxi or Uber is worth it for arrival day.

We'd already spent a few days in Valletta before the walk began, which I'd highly recommend to anyone who can manage it. Arriving early gave us time to adjust to the jet lag and explore this remarkable city properly, and in our case, to celebrate a milestone birthday, which made the experience even more special.

As it was our official arrival day on the tour, we joined a free walking tour of the old city of Mdina which was a fantastic two-hour introduction to the history of this ancient walled city and neighbouring Rabat. We'd previously done tours in Valletta that were led by a knowledgeable young Maltese guide who spoke excellent English. This was our third "free" tour of the trip (tips are expected and well deserved), and it set the tone perfectly for the week ahead.

We were staying at a heritage hotel - a charming 400-year-old property right in the heart of Rabat, just a short walk from the medieval walled city of Mdina. It's a wonderful base, perfectly positioned for nearby restaurants and shops.

Day 2: Ħaġar Qim and the Dingli Cliffs

After a brilliant night's sleep and what I can only describe as a 'breakfast of champions' with fresh orange juice, eggs cooked to your preference, local honey, meats, cheeses, fruit, oatmeal and unlimited coffee, we were picked up by our transfer driver Christian. Punctual, friendly and full of local knowledge.

Christian dropped us off at the Blue Grotto, which was at the end of a scenic coastal road, the dramatic cliffside rock formations were absolutely worth it.

From the Blue Grotto, we continued on foot to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ħaġar Qim, dating back to between 3600 and 3200 BC. Built by Neolithic civilisations, this remarkable stone complex is genuinely impressive.

The coastal walk toward Dingli Cliffs that followed was generally very pleasant, alternating between footpaths and sections of asphalt road. From the Dingli Cliffs viewpoint, we decided to walk all the way back to Rabat rather than take the bus. It was a long day but absolutely worth every step.

Day 3: Coastal Walking to Popeye Village and the Ferry to Gozo

Another sunny morning, another excellent breakfast, and Christian right on time to take us to Mġarr for the start of the coastal walk to Popeye Village.

The scenery along the way was incredible with spectacular views of beaches and coastline at every turn. We would have loved to stop for a swim at Għajn, a beautiful beach beneath the clay cliffs, but with the sea at only 10°C in March, it wasn't quite an option. Come summer, it would be perfect.

Popeye Village itself was a fun stop. I even had my moment of fame, being chosen to play a villain in a short film they were shooting on site! It's a little touristy, but genuinely worth a visit to see this unique film set in such a beautiful cove, particularly for families.

At 4pm we contacted Christian for pickup and he drove us to Ċirkewwa for the ferry crossing to Mġarr on Gozo Island. Everything went smoothly. The ferry was pleasant, and the transfer to our hotel in Għarb on the other side was seamless.

Day 4: The Cliffs of Gozo: Għarb to Dwejra Bay

Our accommodation for the next two nights was a 'farmhouse' in Għarb - a beautifully restored 18th-century stone villa that was a wonderful surprise after arriving from the ferry. From the outside it blends into the surrounding stone buildings, but inside reveals a stunning space full of charm and character. Plus there's a pool. Our hosts Federico and Claudia were exceptional. They were warm, welcoming and attentive throughout. We could easily have stayed longer. The property fully deserves its outstanding 9.9 rating.The walk itself was one of the highlights of the trip. The route from Għarb to the coast runs along quiet secondary country roads, passing the imposing Ta' Pinu Basilica in the early morning stillness. At the coast we were rewarded with some incredible sights, including the ancient Roman salt pans.

We hiked along the coast to Dwejra Bay on an extremely windy day, with panoramic cliff views stretching in every direction. We arrived a little too late for a boat trip into the grottos, but we were treated to a beautiful sunset before heading back to Għarb by Uber.

Once again, we felt fortunate to have much of the trail to ourselves. Dwejra Bay was a little busier, but I could only imagine how it gets in peak season. 

We happily returned both evenings to Il-Kunvent, a former convent turned restaurant in the village centre, where the food was excellent and very reasonably priced.

Day 5: Xlendi to Victoria on a Rainy Day

Our first rainy and very windy day. The transfer from our accommodation to Xlendi was, as always, punctual, and we set off on the coastal route past farmers' fields and stunning cliff views.

By the time we reached Sannat, the heavy rain and poor visibility led us to abandon the planned route and head straight for Victoria instead. 

Our home for the final three nights was a boutique hotel in Victoria. The front desk staff were outstanding, and they had been informed of my milestone birthday in advance. We were upgraded to a room with a hot tub on a lovely private terrace. A wonderful surprise.

The hotel's location was perfect as it was just a few minutes' walk to the old town and about ten minutes to the bus station. There's also a full grocery store on the first floor of the complex, which was genuinely useful for stocking up on fruit and snacks for the next day's walk. Victoria has no shortage of restaurants in the evenings, and our front desk staff were excellent at pointing us toward the best options each night. Reservations are definitely recommended.

Day 6: Museums and the Coast to Ramla Beach

Our last proper hiking day, and we decided to make it our own. We started by visiting the Ġgantija Archaeological Park before setting off on a beautiful coastal hike along the northwestern coast. The trail was steep at times, but the coastal views made every bit of effort worthwhile.

We finished at Ramla Bay - Gozo's famous beach with its distinctive red sand - and waited for the bus back to Victoria. A perfect final day on the trails.

Day 7: Victoria and the Ferry Back to Valletta

Our last day on Gozo before the late-afternoon ferry back to Valletta. We spent a relaxed morning exploring Victoria's old town, including the impressive Citadel. Wandering through the narrow, historic streets was a perfect way to end the walking portion of the trip. By 4pm we had checked out and made our way to the ferry.

Overall, Gozo was our favourite of the two islands. The walks are dramatic, the accommodation is exceptional and the food is outstanding. We would recommend this trip wholeheartedly to anyone looking for coastal walking in a destination that still feels genuinely undiscovered.

Malta is a beautiful country, with truly wonderful people.

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Practical Information

When to Go

The tour operates daily from 15 September to 15 May. March is an excellent time to visit as the countryside is lush, the trails are quiet and the temperatures are ideal for walking (15–18°C during the day). Pack layers for cool evenings, and plan for a mix of sun and rain. The sea will be cold for swimming, but the walking conditions are superb.

Getting There

All international flights arrive into Valletta. We'd highly recommend arriving a few days early to explore the city before the walk begins. From Valletta, a taxi or Uber to Rabat (your starting point) takes around 15 minutes and costs approximately €10–12.

The UTracks Navigation App

The app is excellent overall. Well-designed, easy to follow and with clear voice-guided turn-by-turn directions. It handles both rural and urban sections well, and makes it simple to rejoin the route if you take a detour. Carry a fully charged power bank each day, as the app draws steadily on your phone battery over a long walking day.

What to Pack

Bring layers, rain gear and sunscreen. There is very little tree coverage on the trails, so you'll be exposed to sun, wind and rain depending on conditions. Comfortable, sturdy footwear is essential as some sections are rocky and the terrain can be uneven. 

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Webinar: Walking in the Dordogne

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About the Walking in the Dordogne itinerary

The Dordogne is one of France's most enchanting regions — a land of elegant stone houses, medieval castles and rolling countryside where the pace of life slows and every village seems to have a story worth lingering over. Focused around the Dordogne River Valley, walking here offers a rare combination of stunning natural scenery and deep cultural immersion in the heart of the Périgord.

Days on the trail might include wandering through the bustling food markets of Sarlat, following quiet countryside paths through forests and farmland, and arriving into timeless bastide towns where history feels entirely present. Along the way you'll discover the impressive Benedictine Abbey in Souillac, ancient riverside villages and a landscape shaped by centuries of human history.

With luggage transfers and carefully selected accommodation arranged in advance, our Dordogne walking trips allow you to focus entirely on the experience of the region. The food alone is worth the journey — regional specialities including walnuts, truffles, mushrooms and strawberries are all part of the Dordogne's outstanding culinary heritage, and opportunities to sample them are never far away.

From the medieval streets of Sarlat to the quiet riverside paths of the Dordogne Valley, this is a corner of France that rewards those who take the time to explore it on foot — and one that is very hard to leave behind.

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