If ever there was a part of the UK which can leave one speechless, it is the majestic mountain Ben Nevis.

The highest peak in the British Isles, it is both a challenge and a wonderful example of natural beauty.

Those enjoying walks at Ben Nevis can make the most of it by exploring it in different ways, each offering a unique slant on this majestic feature of the Scottish Highlands.

Go by gondola

Walking Ben Nevis is a great way to enjoy its ruggedness and beauty but as with all mountains, the top offers the best view.

Ben Nevis walks are challenging at the best of times and those who prefer can enjoy it from Britain’s only mountain gondola.

Visitors can sit back and relax as the gondola lifts them 650m into the air, meandering through mountain trails and offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.

A camera is an absolute must, with many of the sights people will see deserving of being caught on film so the memories can last a lifetime.

The gondolas do not actually transport visitors to the top of Ben Nevis but to the north face of Aonach Mor.

If anything though, this allows those on Ben Nevis walks to witness its majesty even more, as the views of the great mountain are nothing short of outstanding.

Explore on a bike

Ben Nevis is also a popular location for cycling enthusiasts.

Thousands of cyclists of all levels travel to the mountain each year to tackle the various twists and turns it has to offer.

Those on walks at Ben Nevis need not worry however, as the walking routes and cycle paths are separate, meaning walking enthusiasts will not have to dodge speeding cyclists while they amble along.

They could even take to two wheels themselves, as there are numerous paths offering different views of the mountain which can be explored.

Again, taking a camera is recommended, as just about every angle of this marvellous feat of nature is worth capturing on film.

Slip on some skis

Brave walking enthusiasts could also take the chance to do some skiing while there.

Ben Nevis is a popular haunt for snowboard and skiing fans and those who have always wanted to try could take taster lessons in either discipline and experience the mountain another way.

The surrounding area

Set in the shadow of Ben Nevis is Fort William, the capital of Lochaber and one of the highlands’ most buzzing resorts.

After exploring Ben Nevis, visitors can enjoy walks in Fort William and see what the area has to offer.

One notable attraction is the Jacobite Steam train, which has been going for nearly three decades.

Running from Fort William to Mallaig, it is a must-see for those on holiday in the area.

So special are the views and the experience as a whole that Wanderlust magazine named it the Top Railway Journey in the World in 2009.

There is also a number of pubs, restaurants and hotels to enjoy after a long walk in Fort William.

Visitors could take in the Grog and Gruel before settling down to a good night’s rest at the Clan Macduff motel or one of the many other places to stay.

The Open Spaces Society has voiced its objections to a planning application which would allow microlight aircraft to fly above walking routes in Buckinghamshire.

A request was recently submitted to allow the vessels to be flown from Bernwood Farm in Botolph Claydon in the north of the county.

According to the Open Spaces Society, should consent be granted it would mean the runways would cross or pass close to two footpaths and one bridleway, with one of the paths part of the Bernwood Jubilee Way.

The group claims this 61-mile route, which meanders through Bernwood Forest, is a favourite with walking enthusiasts and that the aircraft would be a disturbance to them.

Kate Ashbrook, general secretary at the society, said that Aylesbury Vale District Council should reject the application.

"We do not consider that the private indulgence of a few people should be at the expense of all those who want to enjoy this area for quiet recreation," she added.

Bernwood Jubilee Way was created in 2002 as part of the Bernwood Ancient Hunting Forest Project.

Gwynedd Council and Tourism Partnership mid Wales have launched a new initiative to promote the Vale of Ffestiniog, a popular area for walks in Snowdonia.

The project includes a bilingual e-brochure and a dedicated website highlighting all of the interesting features those who enjoy walking in Snowdonia can find in the area.

Pryderi ap Rhisiart, from Gwynedd Council, told the Cambrian News that Snowdonia has strong identity and that more must be done to promote the various villages and regions which make it special.

“There are world-class attractions such as Portmeirion, the Ffestiniog Railway, Llechwedd and the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway and some great accommodation and catering operators – but it is all fragmented,” he stated.

According to Visit Snowdonia, the Vale of Ffestiniog is one of the richest areas in Wales for history and heritage, boasting many attractions and places to visit for those enjoying walking holidays in the area.

Those keen to start enjoying walking holidays could begin with a visit to Suffolk, which offers a wonderful array of easy walking routes, it has been claimed.

Frank Barrett, travel editor at Mail on Sunday, said that the county is quite flat meaning it is a great way to introduce one to the joys of walking.

He suggests those keen to explore walking routes in Suffolk should look to take part in the South and Heart of Suffolk Walking festival, which runs from May 15th to June 6th.

Mr Barrett pointed out that the Swan Hotel at Lavenham is offering special packages to walking fans visiting the festival.

“Suffolk is not a county famous for its steeping peaks, so it’s ideal for anyone in search of an untaxing stroll,” he added.

Walking enthusiasts keen to visit other festivals could visit the new website from Augmentra, which lists all upcoming events and gatherings in addition to walking route information.

Two of the most famous walking routes in Ireland have been joined together to create over 500km of continuous paths.

The Sheeps Head Way and the Beara Way in west Cork have been connected by the Mealagh Valley walk, with the official opening taking place yesterday (Sunday).

Quentin Gargan, secretary of the Mealagh Valley Walking route, told the Irish Independent that visitors to the area will be able to enjoy fabulous countryside and wonderful views while walking.

“The Mealagh Valley has many ancient settlements and the new route passes by the Knockenalora wedge tomb, as well as standing stones, stone circles and other ancient sites in the area,” he added.

Mr Gargan stated that the mountain walk over Mullaghmesha offers stunning views of Cork and Kerry.

According to Walk Ireland, it is crucial those on walking holidays in the country bring a waterproof jacket and the correct walking clothing with them.

With 680 miles of outstanding scenery, wildlife habitats and a rich cultural heritage, there is plenty to discover on walks in the Yorkshire Dales.

Designated a national park in 1954, the area is one of the most beautiful in the UK and a shining example of the country’s natural beauty.

Lush green valleys were formed as a result of erosion by a glacier and the weathering of limestone, sandstone, shale and grit more than 300 million years ago is responsible for some of the dramatic scenery which can be enjoyed today.

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Limestone country.

Outdoor adventure

The beauty of the Yorkshire Dales is that it is not only a place to see – it is a place to do.

Thousands of visitors flock here every year, from horse riders and outdoor adventure lovers to those who simply enjoy the walking routes which run throughout the countryside.

Whether it is a gentle bike ride, hill climbing or relaxing, the Yorkshire Dales has it all.

Visitors enjoying walks in the Yorkshire Dales can also explore its many limestone caves, which offer wonderful opportunities for photographs and paintings.

One of the highlights is the Ingleborough Cave – part of the Gaping Hill system – that served as an outflow for streams until the main stream abandoned it.

Those on walks in the Yorkshire Dales will be glad it did, as it is now one of the biggest attractions in the UK, with a solid concrete path allowing safe access to the many wonders hidden within.

There is also White Scar cave, the longest show cave in Britain.

A subterranean landscape complete with streams and waterfalls, this is another must see while enjoying Yorkshire Dales walks.

Fabulous flora and fauna

The Yorkshire Dales has one of the richest collections of wildlife in the UK and one of the main reasons people enjoy walks in the Yorkshire Dales so much is the abundance of colour and life which light up the area.

A visit to the Moorland and Moorland Fringe will see merlin and golden plover soar above the endless expanses of purple heather which bring the countryside to life.

Woodland is scarce in the Yorkshire Dales but what is present plays a significant part in the survival of many different species of plant and animal life.

The large conifer plantations in and around Sedbergh, Garsdale and Widdale are home to red squirrels and visitors will find many darting around while enjoying the many walking routes.

A pair of binoculars is a must, as there are numerous species of birds which call the dales their home.

Those exploring walking routes in the Yorkshire Dales will not fail to spot the bright colours of the chaffinch, whose blue and orange plumage are unmistakable.

Skylark, lapwing and curlew are often spotted in the area as well, making the Yorkshire Dales one of the best spots for bird watching anywhere in the country.

The natural beauty is not just in the trees and skies, however, as there is a good chance one will stumble across badgers on walks in the Yorkshire Dales.

Delightful villages

Dotted throughout the Yorkshire Dales are various villages boasting quaint pubs and restaurants, comfortable hotels and beautiful architecture.

Pateley Bridge is one such place, with a whole host of interesting arts and crafts shops which offer all manner of items which would make great presents for someone special.

Here, walking enthusiasts will also find Britain’s oldest sweet shop.

After a long walk in the Yorkshire Dales, a nice relaxing drink and a plate of food at the Crown could be just what the doctor ordered before lacing up one’s walking boots and moving on.

Another village visitors must see is Aysgarth, famous for its three stunning waterfalls which have been popular with photographers and artists for years.

Located in mid-Wensleydale, it is perfect for walkers of all levels, including the Herriot Way Walk which is popular with enthusiasts.

At the end of the walk, a nice glass of bitter and a meal at the George and Dragon will round off a wonderful day out.

With dishes such as roast Nidderdale Chicken Breast with smoked Applewood risotto and escalope of salmon on the menu, visitors will not want to miss it.