Outdoor Activity Holidays

Wednesday, 25 September 2024 08:00

By Lisa de Silva

A holiday offers the chance to take a break from the everyday routine of life. Lisa de Silva explores the many types of holidays that offer the opportunity to get active

While lazing by a pool or lounging on the beach will always be popular, we are increasingly seeking more adventure from our holidays. Outdoor activity breaks are booming and here we take a closer look at this growing sector of the holiday market.

THE APPEAL OF OUTDOOR ACTIVITY HOLIDAYS

The great appeal of outdoor activity holidays is both universal and personal. Attractions include being in the great outdoors, embracing a spirit of adventure, exciting wildlife encounters, and an enhanced sense
of wellbeing. On a more personal level, many are attracted by the challenge of doing something out of their comfort zone and learning or improving a new skill.

The growth in the market is led by the younger generation, who can find this type of holiday more relaxing than doing nothing. For some, the opportunity to focus on an activity beyond the realms of daily life is a chance to switch off completely, enjoy some ‘me time’ and meet like-minded people. For others, the chance to immerse themselves in the natural world, exercise in fresh air and increase vitamin D levels, is a way to improve mood and rediscover their zest for life.

BUDGET

Outdoor activity holidays offer outstanding value for money and affordability. Even those on the tightest of budgets can find a holiday to suit. For example, camping and cycling in the West Country or an Airbnb and hiking in the Yorkshire Dales can be enjoyed without spending too much money.

At the other end of the scale, hiking in Patagonia, skiing in the Rockies or embarking on an Antarctic expedition requires deeper pockets.

INFINITE VARIETY

Whatever your fitness level and interests, the impressive choice of outdoor activities is so wide reaching that there will be something to suit most people. From water sports, to hiking, biking, and horse riding to more specialist activities such as diving expeditions, caring for elephants at Thailand’s Wildlife Rescue Centre or rainforest trekking in Central America, there is endless scope to craft the ideal trip.

TOUR COMPANY VS INDEPENDENT

For those with the confidence and experience, it is possible to organise and book an adventure holiday independently. However, there are several reasons why using a tour company is beneficial. These include specialist knowledge, insurance and safety issues. Many outdoor adventures come with a degree of risk, which is often part of the appeal. Travelling with a respected tour company will ensure that all equipment, instructors and safety procedures are of a standard. For those choosing to go it alone, do check that you have adequate travel insurance as well as the credentials of any company supplying equipment and instruction.

HOME VS ABROAD

Many activities are destination dependent. For example, if it’s your ambition to track polar bears, experience a Big Five safari, climb Europe’s highest peaks or raft the rivers of Southeast Asia, you’ll obviously need to travel abroad.

Alternatively, activities such as hiking, biking, sailing and horse-riding are less dependent on specific locations and can be enjoyed at home. What’s more, immersing yourself within the natural landscapes of any location, whether home or abroad, offers a whole new perspective on an area, whether that’s mountain biking, rambling, or climbing, and is a great way to explore familiar territory in an unfamiliar way.

SINGLE VS MULTI-ACTIVITY HOLIDAY

While solo travellers have the luxury of indulging in their preferred activity to the exclusion of all else, those travelling in a family, or a group may wish to consider a trip offering a range of activities. A holiday park will generally be able to provide activities to suit all ages, abilities and interests. While less active members of the group can enjoy any wellbeing facilities and activities on offer, such as spa treatments and yoga.

By contrast, the opportunity to devote a holiday to a favourite pastime, such as surfing or horse riding, or trying something new like learning to sail or climb, within a relaxed environment, is wonderfully enriching.

TOURS VS SINGLE LOCATIONS

For those wishing to explore a specific region, many companies now offer walking, cycling and horse-riding tours. Trips involve travelling along a specified route with hotels and meals included, while the travel company transports your luggage, so it is ready and waiting for you at the hotels along the way.

Other benefits of touring include the opportunity to experience different landscapes and activities, such as trekking a rainforest, kayaking a lake or climbing a volcano. Alternatively, single locations are probably best suited to families with young children and those wishing to focus on a single activity.

Outdoor Activity Holidays

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