8 Alternatives to the Three Peaks Challenge
An epic hiking challenge that involves ascending the tallest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales, the Three Peaks is a bucket list favourite amongst UK-based fitness and adventure lovers.
But it certainly isn't the only option. Perhaps you've completed the three peaks already, or are looking for a different challenge? Something on two-wheels perhaps, or in a more 'exotic' location?
Whatever you're looking for, we've got you covered. Read on to discover 8 Alternatives to the Three Peaks Challenge.
The Welsh 3000s
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When it comes to hiking challenges, it's difficult to beat the 3 peaks, but The Welsh 3000s certainly runs it close.
It involves scaling all of Wales' 15 tallest mountains (all of which are 3000 ft or higher), in just 24 hours, encompassing a total ascent of 2000m, plus some steep inclines and tricky, rugged terrain.
It might sound ambitious, but thousands of people complete the challenge every year, and though it's certainly not easy, the incredible panoramic views of Snowdonia National park, and the sense of euphoria you'll feel when you ascend the final peak, make it one of the best, and most exciting challenges around!
Trek the Inca Trail
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A bucket list favourite, the epic trek through the Andes to Machu Pichu is one that has fascinated adventurers from across the globe since 'The Lost City of the Inca', was rediscovered by explorer Hiram Bingham, over a century ago.
From the historic Peruvian city of Cusco, you'll navigate rugged trails through dramatic Andean landscapes, until you eventually reach your destination, an awe-inspiring and mysterious, ancient wonder that is sure to take your breath away!
John O'Groats to Land's End Cycle
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For cycling enthusiasts, the epic journey from Lands End to John O'Groats, the northernmost tip of Great Britain to the southernmost, is a must!
From the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands to the verdant scenery of the Lake District and the quaint villages and undulating hills of the Cotswolds, you'll enjoy some of the best the UK has to offer, whilst experiencing the unique camaraderie of this group challenge, and the immense sense of achievement when you finally reach your journey's end!
Laugavegur Trek
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Colourful mountains and geothermal springs, rugged deserts, charcoal-hued lava fields, lush canyons, glaciers, and volcanic peaks, the Laugavegur Trail encompasses some of the most spectacular scenery that Iceland has to offer.
Stretching for 55KM across the highlands in the south of the country, this captivating trail is, without doubt, one of the most unique, and beautiful on earth, and it is easy to see why it inspired J.R.R Tolkien's Middle Earth.
Climb Kilimanjaro
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Africa's tallest mountain (and the tallest freestanding mountain on earth!), Kilimanjaro soars to nearly 6000 metres above the wildlife-rich plains of Tanzania.
A once in a lifetime experience, scaling its snow-capped peak certainly isn't easy, but thanks to its good quality trails and excellent local guides, you don't have to be a highly trained and experienced mountaineer to achieve it, plus the epic views from the summit are truly hard to beat!
Coast to Coast cycle
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It might not boast the reputation of the three peaks or John O Groats to Land's end, but this unique Coast to Coast cycling challenge is sure to test your character and leave you with some long-lasting memories!
Starting on the Cumbrian Coastline and finishing on the fringes of the North Sea, you and a team of like-minded souls will cross the full breadth of northern England, navigating country lanes, mountain passes and disused railway lines, through forests, valleys and moorland, enjoying magnificent views along the way!
Tour Du Mont Blanc
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Perhaps the continent's most iconic hiking challenge, the Tour Du Mont Blanc is an epic high-altitude trek around the Mont Blanc massif.
Covering a distance of around 170KM, and encompassing 10,000m of ascent, the route crosses into three different countries (France, Italy and Switzerland), and typically takes between 8-11 days to complete.
Challenging, exhilarating, and nothing short of awe-inspiring, it encompasses some of the most spectacular views that Europe has to offer, and is a unique, and captivating adventure that is sure to live long in the memory!
Hadrian's Wall Walk
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For a UK-based hiking challenge with an archaeological twist, look no further than the Hadrian's Wall Walk, an 84-mile long coast to coast trek that follows the original route of this ancient Roman landmark.
Discover the fascinating two millennia-old history of this UNESCO World Heritage site and the scenic beauty of northern England as you navigate verdant landscapes, rugged cliffs, and rolling hills, stopping to admire panoramic vistas and ancient Roman landmarks along the way.