Eating your way through walking holidays: Most popular destinations and their cuisines
Everyone talks about the breathtaking landscapes they get to visit on a walking holiday, as well as the incredible benefits for their physical and mental health. But if, like us, you’re a foodie, this journey can have a whole other layer of exploration through tasting a new cuisine. The destination you choose will impact the kind of flavors you’ll be experiencing throughout your time there… Let’s look at some of the most popular options!
Spain
Home to the infamous pilgrimage network, called Camino de Santiago, Spain is undoubtedly the king of walking holidays. Whether you’re doing one of these historic walking routes or not, you can be sure the food will be as varied as the terrain. The highlight of the Spanish cuisine is, of course, tapas – small plates of food, often shared together. In the north, the most popular options will be croquetas, tortilla de patata, pimientos de padron (green peppers), and anchovies. Galicia is known for its pulpo a la gallega (octopus dish), Valencia is known for its signature paella, whereas in the south, the specialties include sardines, spicy garlic shrimp, and patatas bravas. Don’t forget to enjoy a glass of sangria with your feast!
Scotland
The Scottish Highlands attract thousands of visitors each year, thanks to the region’s dramatic natural beauty. However, the weather here can be unpredictable, even in the summer, so the local meals are hearty, made to provide warmth and comfort. Scotland’s cuisine is rooted in local, seasonal ingredients, including wild game, fresh fish (salmon is a specialty here), and earthy vegetables. The must-try dishes here are haggis served with neeps n’ tatties (mashed swede and potatoes) and Cullen skink, a creamy smoked haddock soup. If that hasn’t warmed you enough, then a Scottish single malt whisky will not disappoint.
France
French cuisine is one of the best-regarded in the world, so you’re in for a real treat on your walking holiday in France. There are trails entirely dedicated to visiting the vineyards of the most iconic wine regions, such as Chablis and Alsace. When it comes to food, different regions will also have their own surprises: in Provence, the scent of bouillabaisse (fish soup) and ratatouille mingles in the air, while the Burgundy routes are where the best coq au vin (chicken wine casserole) and tarte tatin (apple tart) can be found. If you’re walking the French Pyrenees, they will tempt you with mouth-watering charcuterie and mountain cheeses.
Portugal
Portugal’s coastal walks, particularly along the Rota Vicentina or the Camino Portugues, are also a popular choice due to their spectacular sea views. The views are not the only thing that comes from the Atlantic, though – the region’s cuisine is filled with fragrant seafood dishes. Some of the local staples include bacalhau (salt cod), various grilled fish, octopus dishes, sardines, caldeirada (fish stew), and caldo verde (potato and kale soup). And, no meal is completed without pastéis de nata, an authentic Portuguese custard tart.
Italy
Finally, producing some of the most indulgent meals, enjoyed all around the globe, Italy is the ideal destination for foodies. The Amalfi Coast, particularly common for walking holidays, is known for producing lemons, which is why many of the dishes and desserts here are infused with citrus flavors, including the Limoncello liquor traditionally enjoyed after dinner. Seafood is another common ingredient in food, such as frutti di mare (seafood pasta) and spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams). But, let’s be honest, pizza Margherita topped with fresh mozzarella is the true star of the show!
Exploring new countries – one bite at a time
A walking holiday allows you to explore your chosen destination in an entirely new way, visiting not just the tourist attractions, but also beautiful spots off the beaten track. Each new place brings its own authentic flavors, making the experience that much more enriching.
