Walking together: a conversation with HF Holidays
We caught up with Hannah Myers from HF Holidays to talk about their century-long passion for connecting people with the outdoors. From welcoming first-time walkers to leading adventures in far-flung destinations, Hannah shares how HF Holidays creates unforgettable experiences through expert-led routes, friendly groups, and a spirit of discovery. She reveals why walking can be life-changing, how Cicerone guidebooks fit perfectly into the mix, and what exciting new trips are on the horizon for 2025.
HF Holidays’ mission is simple: to connect people with the outdoors through expertly planned walking experiences. As a member-owned co-operative, they offer guided and self-guided trips in the UK and around the world, with routes crafted by local experts and volunteer leaders. From gentle coastal strolls to challenging mountain treks, HF Holidays makes walking accessible, sociable, and inspiring – helping more people take their next step with confidence.
Hi Hannah, thanks for speaking with us today. We'd love to hear more about HF Holidays – what makes your walking holidays unique?
We’re a British co-operative with a big heart and a simple mission – to connect people to the outdoors and to each other through walking. Owned by our members and run for the benefit of our community, we organise (not just sell) our own holidays, hosting guests in 15 characterful UK country houses and running small-group trips to beautiful walking destinations all over the world.
What makes us unique is the way we bring people together. Our guests don’t just come to tick off trails – they come to learn, grow, and laugh along the way. Whether it’s the joy of conquering your first summit, learning about local wildlife, or enjoying great conversation over dinner, we believe walking holidays can be truly life-changing.
What types of walking holidays do you offer, and who are they best suited for?
We welcome walkers of all abilities. Many guests join us for their first-ever walking holiday and soon find themselves hooked for life. Our trips range from gentle guided walks with plenty of sightseeing, to more challenging routes through the Alps or Lake District.
You’ll never be expected to “keep up” – all our routes are graded, and groups are split by ability so everyone can walk at their own pace. For those who prefer independence, our self-guided holidays offer the flexibility to explore at your own rhythm, with the reassurance of carefully prepared routes and local knowledge.
How do you choose and develop the routes in your holidays?
Our walking routes are designed with care, passion and a deep understanding of the landscapes we explore. We have a dedicated product team, over 600 volunteer leaders, and local Field Advisors who walk and test our trails, adjusting them for seasonal changes, weather, and difficulty.
From coastal Cornwall in spring to the Italian Dolomites in autumn, every route is planned to give the best possible experience. Many guests also enjoy travelling in the quieter months, when the trails are peaceful and nature shows a different kind of magic. We’re also expanding in popular destinations such as Japan and New Zealand, and introducing navigation-themed holidays closer to home for those keen to boost their skills.
How do Cicerone guidebooks fit into the picture?
At each of our UK country houses, you’ll find a Discovery Point – a welcoming corner stocked with maps, guidebooks, and local insights. Many guests browse them over a cuppa or use them to plan their next adventure.
Cicerone guidebooks are a perfect fit – detailed, inspiring, and easy to use. They spark new ideas and build confidence, especially for our self-guided guests who want a little more independence. Because Cicerone’s coverage often overlaps with the areas we operate in, it’s easy for guests to read about a route and then step outside to walk it.
We often recommend Cicerone titles to guests heading out on self-guided trips, or to those building up to bigger adventures. For people who love to plan, dream and dive deep into a destination, they’re the ideal companion.
What advice would you give to someone considering their first walking holiday?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Our friendly team can guide you to the right holiday based on your interests and fitness level. You don’t have to be an expert – all you need is curiosity and a willingness to explore.
If you’ve ever flicked through a guidebook and thought, “That looks amazing, but I wouldn’t know where to start,” that’s where we come in. We’ll make sure you have the right route, the right pace, and the right company to enjoy your walk from the very first step.
Any final words to add?
HF Holidays and Cicerone share a belief: walking is about more than reaching the destination. It’s about the journey – what you see, what you learn, and how it makes you feel.
Whether you’re picking up a guidebook for the first time or packing your boots for your fiftieth walk, let us help you discover what’s next. Together, we make walking holidays easier, friendlier, and more inspiring than ever.
Thank you!
Find out more about everything HF Holidays has to offer on their website. Happy hiking!
