Scotland named one of world's top global hiking…

Scotland named one of world's top global hiking destinations

With a drought in holidays for everyone, and continued growth in people looking to rediscover the outdoor s, a new study has found the best countries in the world for a hiking holiday – and of course, Scotland made it into the top 10.

The study, conducted by SportsShoes.com, analysed Google searches for over 500 hiking routes, along with walking and hiking holidays in over 100 countries, before combining this with the number of Instagram hashtags for each, to create an index that unveils the best destinations for a hiking adventure.

Scotland is only beaten by Spain, which came out on top with a staggering 170,830 annual searches and 3,100 hashtags associated with a hiking adventure, Japan and England.

Sitting fourth on the list, Scotland has become known for its epic scenery and challenging mountainous terrain.

Ben Nevis, the West Highland Way and a trip to The Quiraing on the Isle of Skye all made it into their top British hikes list.

When it comes to best hikes to enjoy in our wee country, the SportsShoes team wrote: "With its shimmering lochs, muddy terrain and changeable weather, Scotland is perfect for anyone looking to get stuck in and immerse themselves in nature.

"Ben Nevis, a bucket-list hike for many avid climbers, is the best hike in Scotland, according to the index data.

"Hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the highlands – including Loch Lomond - on Scotland’s next best hike, the West Highland Way, which stretches to 154 kilometres long.

"Followed by a trip to The Quiraing on the Isle of Skye, which is the third best hike for those travelling in the country."

They also offered advice on how to tackle the Ben Nevis hike.

Hiking Ben Nevis: "A 15.8 kilometre round trail beginning and ending at Fort William makes up the Ben Nevis Mountain Track, one of two routes up Ben Nevis. Rugged and rocky, hikers can enjoy waterfalls, greenery and wildlife as they make their ascent up Scotland’s tallest mountain.

"The other route, Mor Dearg Arête, is a far more challenging climb, reserved for keen hillwalkers, including both a ridge climb and two Munros."

The top 10 World’s Best Hiking Holiday Destinations

1. Spain

2. Japan

3. England

4. Scotland

5. Australia

6. Germany

7. France

8. Wales

9. Italy

10. Northern Ireland

The World’s Best Hiking Routes

Camino de Santiago, Spain

Snowdon, Wales

Lago di Braies, Italy

Camino Frances, France

Ben Nevis, Scotland

Caminito del Rey, Spain

Manali, India

Tre Cime de Lavaredo, Italy

South West Coast Path, England

Via Francigena, Italy

For those eager to explore what Britain has to offer before venturing abroad, the study analysed over 50 British hiking routes to find out which are most popular.