Explore premium hiking spots for less
Premium hiking destinations don’t need to come with premium price tags. With a bit of forward planning, you can explore some of the world’s most breathtaking locations without overspending. Whether you’re admiring the serene lakes of the Lake District, navigating Norway’s dramatic fjords, wandering through Slovenia’s fairytale landscapes, or trekking in Austria’s stunning Alps, there are plenty of ways to stretch your budget. Here are our top tips.
The Lake District
The Lake District's timeless beauty has inspired generations with its lakes, riverside woodland and high fells. As England’s largest national park, it offers fantastic places to explore, and with no entry fees to UK national parks, it’s already a budget-friendly choice. Whether you tackle a long-distance route like the Tour of the Lake District or the Cumbria Way, or tick off fells and enjoy a short walk, here are some tips to make your visit more affordable:
- Stay in hostels: The Lake District is home to a network of YHA hostels, offering budget-friendly accommodation in stunning locations, from the shores of Windermere to the heart of Borrowdale. These hostels often have self-catering kitchens, allowing you to save on meals too.
- Make the most of memberships: If you're a member of the National Trust or English Heritage, you’ll benefit from free or discounted parking in many locations.
- Pack your snacks: Bring packed lunches to avoid pricey café stops and enjoy scenic picnics on your walks.
Walking the Tour of the Lake District
A nine-day circuit of Cumbria's fells, valleys and lakes
£16.95
Guidebook to a 145km (90 mile) circular walking route from Ambleside around the Lake District National Park, visiting all the main valleys and local centres. Described in 9 stages, with 5 high-level alternatives to climb the highest mountains in this World Heritage area. Includes a prologue from Windermere. Suitable for most walkers.
More informationNorway
Norway is known for its high costs, but exploring its stunning fjords and dramatic landscapes doesn’t have to empty your wallet. With smart planning and a few budget-friendly tips, you can enjoy the the best of this incredible country without overspending:
- Travel by ferry: Ferries are free for foot passengers in Norway, so if you can incorporate them into your travel plans, you could save.
- Join the DNT: If you plan to stay in huts along Norway’s trails, it’s well worth joining the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT, Den Norske Turistforening). Membership gives you discounted rates on hut accommodation (though food at serviced and self-serviced huts is not included). A DNT membership is also essential to obtain the universal hut key, which is required to access many huts, making it both a practical and cost-saving choice.
- Research accommodation: When you are off trail, there are various accommodation options in towns and cities, so it's worth shopping around. Hostels are generally of a high standard and provide excellent value for money.
Slovenia
Slovenia’s Julian Alps and serene lakes offer a dreamy hiking experience at a fraction of the cost of other Alpine regions. The Juliana Trail offers a fantastic way to explore the region. Here's how to save while you're there:
- Alpine Club Membership card: Invest in a one-year membership with the Slovenia Alpine Association. This card provides significant discounts at mountain huts and includes basic rescue insurance, making it a must for extended stays or ambitious treks.
- Food markets and street food: Slovenia’s street food, found at local markets, is hearty, delicious, and affordable. For even better value, enjoy your main meal at lunch, as restaurants often offer cheaper set menus.
- Use buses and trains: Use Slovenia's affordable and efficient bus and train services to reach hiking starting points and nearby towns, saving on car hire and travel costs.
Hiking Slovenia's Juliana Trail
Three-week trek: Triglav National Park, Bled and the Julian Alps
£18.95
Guidebook to walking Slovenia's Juliana Trail, a 20-stage, 330km hike through the Julian Alps circling Mount Triglav. The route is described clockwise from Kranjska Gora with details on public transport, accommodation and available facilities.
More informationAustria
From Stubai to Zillertal, the Austrian Alps offer breathtaking trails and unforgettable views, and with a bit of savvy planning, you can experience their beauty while keeping costs in check:
- Austrian Guest Cards: If staying in a hotel, take advantage of the guest card often provided – it offers discounts on cable cars and bus journeys. For week-long stays, consider purchasing a visitor card like the Zillertal Arena or Stubai Active Card, which grants free access to cable cars, buses, and trains in their respective regions.
- Join the AAC: The Austrian Alpine Club (AAC) offers fantastic benefits for hikers, including discounted stays at mountain huts (Alpenvereinshütten) and comprehensive insurance coverage for activities like hiking and climbing. Mountain Rescue is included if you have an AAC membership, so you don't have to buy it separately.
- Use public transport: Austria’s excellent public transport system makes it easy to reach top hiking destinations without needing a car. If you are 60+, you can also benefit from reduced prices on train tickets, and regional transport passes often include discounts on local buses, trams, and even cable cars.
- Visit in spring or autumn: Hiking in spring or autumn lets you enjoy Austria’s trails with fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices. The weather is often mild, and the scenery is stunning, with blooming alpine meadows in spring and vibrant golden hues in autumn.
