Adventure holidays are rising in popularity as families want something extra from their time away. If you like to explore your surroundings by foot, bushwalking is a special way to discover new places on your break.

Nature walks have also been proven to reduce stress and improve your wellbeing. According to a US study by the University of Michigan, group nature walks have been found to lower depression, reduce stress levels, and improve an individual’s mental health.

So if you are looking for the perfect hiking holiday, filled with discovery and adventure, then follow our guide to some of the best walking trails in Australia and New Zealand.

Hunter Valley, NSW

• The trail: Mt Lockyer, Yengo National Park
• Terrain: Four-wheeled drive trails and rocky, steep paths
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 12km
• Child-friendly: Suitable for older children over 12
• Food and drink: Two wineries and shops nearby
• Accommodation nearby: Peppers Convent, Hunter Valley

The Hunter Valley has a beautiful landscape that is ideal for walkers and hikers alike. Wollombi in Yengo National Park is a fantastic walking trail that is a tough and long walk that provides a fantastic workout for keen walkers and nature lovers.

Gold Coast Hinterland, QLD

• The trail: The Knoll, Tamborine National Park Terrain: Rainforest and gentle sloping track Difficulty: Easy
• Distance: 2.6km
• Child-friendly: All ages
• Food and drink: Curtis Falls café
• Accommodation nearby: Peppers Ruffles Lodge & Spa, Gold Coast Hinterland

Explore the great outdoors and discover the natural beauty of Tamborine National Park  with this scenic trail. This hike reaches the top of Cameron Falls and you can bask in the views across to Mount Flinders and Brisbane. An easy hike at just 2.6km that is suitable for all ages.

Lake St Clair National Park, TAS

• The trail: Cradle Mountain Summit Bush Walk, Cradle Mountain
• Terrain: Rainforest, rocky and track. Can be icy during the winter months.
• Difficulty: Moderate/hard
• Distance: 12km (5 hours)
• Child-friendly: Suitable for older children
• Food and drink: Cradle Mountain café
• Accommodation nearby: Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge, Tasmania

If active holidays are your choice of getaway then book to stay in Cradle Mountain. It is ideal for trekking and there are plenty of adventure tours in the area. If you love to discover the great outdoors and enjoy breathtaking views by foot then this bush walk in the Lake St Clair National Park is perfect. An opportunity for a tough workout plus you will get magnificent views of northern Tasmania.

Dinner Plain, VIC

• The trail: Precipice Plain Walk
• Terrain: Alpine environment - snow gum woodlands and grassy tracks on the edge of high cliffs
• Difficulty: Moderate/hard
• Distance: 9km return (3 hours)
• Child-friendly: Suitable for older children
• Food and drink: Dinner Plain village
• Accommodation: Peppers Rundells Alpine Lodge, Dinner Plain

This is a trekking trail which is recommended for walkers with some bushwalking experience. A tricky walk but has spectacular views across the Dargo Valley. The recommended time for walking is between the months of November and April. These iconic tracks are a fantastic experience and will warm the heart of all keen walkers.

Canberra, ACT

• The trail: The Centenary Trail
• Terrain: Urban and rural
• Difficulty: Hard        
• Distance: 145km (seven day walk, averaging 20km per day)
• Child-friendly: No   
• Food and drink: Various throughout walk
• Accommodation: Peppers Gallery Hotel, Canberra

If you want to take your active holiday to another level then why not consider completing this 145km walk. You can explore Canberra from a very different perspective with this trail which goes through city and rural settings. This is popular with hikers and cyclists as it provides an overview of the iconic surroundings.

Northland, New Zealand North Island

• The trail: Akeake historic reserve track at the Bay of Islands
• Terrain: Track, steps and beach
• Difficulty: Easy
• Distance: 1.4km loop
• Child-friendly: Yes, all ages. Be careful with small children by the steep cliffs
• Food and drink: Choice of vineyards, cafes and restaurants at the Bay of Islands
• Accommodation: Peppers Carrington Resort, Northland

This hike provides spectacular views in an amazing location in New Zealand. If you are planning a holiday to New Zealand’s North Island then Northland is a fantastic adventure for all the family. With a variety of vineyards and restaurants you will be spoilt for choice to relax after your day of trekking.