Lazing by the pool with a pina colada day in day out isn’t everyone’s idea of a great holiday. If exercise is high up on your priority list even when you’re taking a break, check out these great destinations for fitness fanatics. We’ve pulled out some of the world’s best locations where you can enjoy your favourite fitness routines all with a healthy serving of jaw dropping scenery, cool city life, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Craig Duncan, a representative of www.holidayhypermarket.co.uk, says: ‘There are some fantastic places you can go on holiday and still get your fitness fix. A personal favourite is the Caribbean – the Dominican Republic, for example, has some of the warmest waters you’ll find – swimming in the sea there is like relaxing in a hot tub!’
Amsterdam – Cycling
Do as the Dutch do and explore Amsterdam on two wheels. With around 400 km of cycle paths and a lovely flat landscape, this great city is one of the most bike-friendly in Europe. Go your own way and rent a bike, or sign up to a cycling tour to make sure you discover all the must-see spots. It’s a very safe city to cycle in, too, and there are dozens of great cycling routes.
The Caribbean – Swimming
If the hotel pool doesn’t cut it, how about swimming in the warm waters of the Caribbean? Discover shipwrecks and sandy bays in the beautiful islands of St Kitts and Nevis, or swim with sea turtles in the calm, clear waters of the British Virgin Islands. Thanks to a great climate, a friendly culture, and gorgeous scenery to set your eyes on as you glide through the waters, the Caribbean is a wonderful destination for a swimming holiday.
Kapalua Tennis Garden, Hawaii – Tennis
This award-winning facility is a tennis fanatic’s heaven in a fantastic setting. Situated in lush tropical gardens right by the sea, it’s no wonder this place is consistently voted among the world’s top tennis destinations. There are tournaments and events all year round so you’ll never be short of a game or two. And if you’re worried about not having a partner, don’t be – the tennis staff here are great at pairing players up so you can play to your heart’s content.
Dubrovnik – Waterskiing
The ancient walled city of Dubrovnik is striking to look at when you’re strolling through it on foot, but if you want to take things up a level, imagine seeing it from the water as you glide by on water skis. As you zoom through the water cutting up waves, you’ll be able to take in the city walls from a completely new perspective. Head a little further out and you can water ski your way around the (supposedly cursed) island of Lokrum, and the rocky bays and coves of Dubrovnik’s oldest public beach – Danče. If waterskiing isn’t your thing, you could always try your hand at the adrenalin-pumping sport of jet-skiing. Just try not to fall off in front of the hordes of beachgoers!
Dades Valley, Morocco – Running
Running destinations don’t get much more dramatic than Morocco. With the reds and browns of this scorched-earth landscape, and buildings to match, a run here takes on an otherworldly quality. The Dades Valley stretches from the High Atlas Mountains in the centre of the country to the Jbel Sarho down in the south. Explore the limestone river canyons of the Todra Gorge and discover Skoura – a lush oasis that sits in stark contrast to the rest of the valley. Due to the high temperatures in the summer, it’s best to visit Morocco in the spring or autumn when it’s warm, and running can be enjoyed.
Jetting off on holiday needn’t mean you have to put your exercise routine on hold. With a little planning and forethought, you can create a holiday that puts your love of fitness at the heart of your time away. We hope this selection of fitness-focused holidays has inspired you to get thinking about your next holiday and how you can keep your love of exercise going even when you’re on your travels.
