The UK is home to one of the world's most stunning hiking trails, according to new research that has ranked the globe's most beautiful walks using eye-tracking technology.
The study asked 200 people from around the world to view images of popular hiking destinations while eye-tracking software measured how long their gaze lingered on each landscape.
The results, from SportsShoes.com, were used to create an 'Eye-Catching' score, revealing the trails that captured people's attention.
While France's Calanques de Marseille claimed the top spot overall, the UK's Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk made it in the top 10, with Northern Ireland's Causeway Coast Way also making the list.
The world's top 20 most beautiful hikes
Topping the ranking is the spectacular Calanques de Marseille in southern France. Set between Marseille and Cassis, the hiking area is renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden turquoise coves and sweeping Mediterranean views, offering routes suitable for both casual walkers and experienced hikers.
TRAVEL INSPIRATION
Croatia's Plitvice Lakes Trail ranked second, with visitors following wooden boardwalks through a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring emerald lakes and cascading waterfalls. Switzerland's Lauterbrunnen Valley completed the top three, thanks to its glacier-carved valley, towering Alpine peaks and more than 70 waterfalls.
Closer to home, the Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk was highlighted as one of the world's most eye-catching hikes. Stretching along the East Sussex coastline, the route is famous for its rolling white chalk cliffs, expansive sea views and spectacular scenery within the South Downs National Park.
Northern Ireland's Causeway Coast Way also featured in the global top 10, taking walkers along a rugged stretch of coastline that includes the world-famous Giant's Causeway.
Trail and outdoor expert at SportsShoes.com, Ben Mounsey, said: "What's interesting about these results is the sheer variety of hikes: ancient ruins, coastal paths, alpine lakes and slot canyons all feature.
"And while some of these trails are bucket list hikes that might take months of planning to reach, others are a simple day trip from a major city.
"What they do have in common, however, is that the beautiful scenery is one of the primary reasons people do them and we hope our research will inspire people to put on their hiking boots and get out there.
"Whether it's a multi-day trek or just a couple of hours on a coastal path on a Sunday afternoon, having the right kit, starting with your footwear, can make all the difference."
