In the past, it was the norm to spend your holidays escaping from the everyday hustle and bustle and seizing the opportunity to completely unwind without having to lift a finger. Nowadays, there is much more of an emphasis placed on all things self-care and a holiday no longer means only lounging by the pool or sunbathing on a beach, holidays are for exploring nature, mindfulness and making time for hobbies, more specifically for sports and outdoor activities. Travellers are prioritising their wellbeing and physical activity is one of the most popular ways of improving their mental state while upping fitness levels and elongating lifespans. Active holidays are becoming increasingly popular thanks to the seemingly endless health benefits and the fact that they are genuinely fun!
This trend hasn’t gone unnoticed, with more and more luxury holidaymakers choosing to keep active on their breaks, hotels and resorts have upped their game when it comes to sport- and activity-focussed facilities. Old favourites, like skiing and surfing, are still widely practised and there’s no shortage of five-star destinations where you can hit the slopes or catch some waves until your heart’s content. However, some previously less commonly practised sports, such as stand-up paddle boarding, are becoming increasingly appealing to travellers across the globe and hotels and resorts have been left with no option but to respond to this demand.
There are countless locations that are ideal for all kinds of outdoor activities and accommodation options with sports facilities but for luxury travellers looking for something a tad more exclusive, there are some extremely well-guarded secrets dotted around the world. Whether you’re looking for mountain ranges or acres of land to roam, serene seaside sanctuaries or lively waters to get your heart pumping, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of our favourites.
Racketeering Holidays in the Algarve
Resort: Pine Cliffs Resort | Location: Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal
With the popularity of racketeering on the rise, Pine Cliffs Resort invites racket sports enthusiasts to take full advantage of the state-of-the-art facilities and the unique opportunities presented by the Annabel Croft Tennis Academy and Annabel Croft Padel Academy. The resort boasts four tennis and four padel courts with coaches available to share their expertise and improve your game, no matter your ability. There is also a highly exclusive professional football centre which caters to football teams from across the globe and provides excellent equipment and service. Children are welcome to enjoy the Estima Sports Football Kids Academy. Pine Cliffs Resort is home a spectacular 9-hole cliffside golf course overlooking the Atlantic Sea and has direct access to the stunning Praia da Falésia where guests can take part in water sports and exciting activities with unforgettable views. There is also a tree climbing circuit within the resort’s lush tree park and lots of other facilities too.
Golf Holidays in Miami
Resort: The Biltmore Hotel | Location: Coral Gables, Miami, United States of America
Located in Coral Gables, Miami, The Biltmore Hotel offers an exceptional choice for a luxury golf holiday. This iconic property, originally completed in 1926, boasts a rich history and architectural splendor that sets it apart. The focal point is the Biltmore Golf Course, designed by legendary golf course architect Donald Ross in 1925 and has been meticulously restored to its original grandeur. Golf enthusiasts will revel in its championship layout, featuring challenging holes that wind through lush landscapes and strategic bunkering, catering to players of all skill levels. The Biltmore’s golf offerings extend beyond just the course itself. Its Golf Performance Institute provides tailored coaching and state-of-the-art facilities for honing skills, ensuring a comprehensive experience for enthusiasts seeking to improve their game.
Beyond golf, the hotel offers a boutique resort experience with 271 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, each exuding a blend of classic style and modern comfort. Key facilities include multiple dining options, a luxurious spa for post-golf relaxation, and a stunning swimming pool surrounded by Mediterranean-inspired gardens. The Biltmore’s commitment to service is exemplified by its attentive staff and bespoke amenities, such as personalised concierge services and exclusive access to nearby attractions like the Coral Gables Museum and the Venetian Pool.
Whether indulging in a round of golf, unwinding at the spa, or exploring the vibrant city of Coral Gables, guests at The Biltmore Hotel are treated to an unforgettable experience synonymous with luxury and relaxation.
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Fencing Holidays in Sardinia
Resort: Forte Village | Location: Sardinia, Italy
Forte Village Resort is the ideal destination for all sports lovers thanks to the array of on-site sport facilities and academies. There are excellent academies dedicated to ball sports, racket sports, water sports and more while the resort itself boasts state-of-the-art amenities and stunning surroundings, perfect for adventure sports. And one of the highlights for this year is an extraordinary new initiative: the Valentina Vezzali Fencing Academy, an exclusive project dedicated to the art of fencing, led by one of the greatest champions of all time. The academy will run from May 26 to August 31, 2025.
Widely considered the greatest fencer in the history of the sport, Valentina Vezzali is a symbol of excellence, determination, and success. With a career spanning decades and marked by exceptional achievements — 6 Olympic golds, 1 silver, 2 bronzes, 16 World Championship titles, 13 European titles, 4 individual World Cup wins, and 79 World Cup podiums — Valentina remains the only Italian woman to have won medals in five consecutive Olympic Games.
Part of the Forte Village Sport Academies program, The Valentina Vezzali Fencing Academy at Forte Village is a place to learn fencing techniques while embracing fundamental values such as respect, focus, self-control, and team spirit. The academy will offer courses for all levels, from beginners to experienced athletes.
The resort also hosts Real Madrid Foundation coaches at the on-site football pitches, has thirteen tennis courts, and 47 hectares of land to practice cycling in a truly idyllic setting.
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Mountain Biking in Morzine
Resort: Dahu Hotel & Spa | Location: Morzine, France
Mountain biking is an adrenaline-filled way of exploring your surroundings with an element of thrill and excitement. Located along the south side of the Morzine Valley, the 4* Dahu Hotel & Spa offers guests a uniquely sunny location and a panorama that encompasses the emblematic mountains and its lovely village. Hôtel & Spa Le Dahu is a luxurious getaway in one of the world’s most expansive mountain biking playgrounds. The area comprises 600 kilometres of picturesque trails and features 22 mountain bike lifts. Explore more of this expansive adventure playground than possible on a regular mountain bike hire an electric-powered mountain bikes, and the hotel can also organise experienced guides for those wishing to tap into local knowledge. After a long day of adventure, the hotel is equipped with a spa, and an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, with great dining options to fuel hungry mountain riders.
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Hit the Waves in Hawaii
Resort: Lumeria Maui: Maui Education & Wellness Retreat | Location: Maui, Hawaii, United States of America
Located on a picture-perfect Hawaiian island, Lumeria Maui Educational Retreat Centre is the ideal destination for those looking to be at one with the sea and escape from reality. Guests can benefit from private and group tuition in surfing and paddleboarding, an increasingly popular sport that originates from the area. There are also rejuvenating classes in yoga and meditation with more intense sessions focusing on metaphysical studies and healing arts. Local culture and heritage are taught here daily with the option of hula dancing and a range of classes using traditional practices. There is also a special selection of off-site activities including climbing and equestrian for guests to choose from.
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