Sports holidays abroad
While some like to soak up the sun with a cocktail in hand and a good book in the other, there are those that prefer a more action-packed approach to holidays. If you're an adrenaline junkie looking for a challenging break away, here's what's on offer in the world of sporting holidays.
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Land
From motors to mountain bikes, climbing to potholing, the variety of land-based sports you can get involved in both here and abroad are numerous. Rock climbers, for example, can start small in Snowdonia, graduate to the diverse climbing of El Chorro in Andalucia, Spain, or challenge yourself to scale the high altitude volcanoes of Equador. If motoring is more your thing, why not try the ultimate road trip along Route 66, either on two wheels or four, taking in everything America has to offer from Chicago right through to LA.
Of course, there's another way to experience life on two wheels. There are cycling tours aplenty, whether you fancy a gentle pedal around the glorious Italian countryside, trying a thrilling mountain bike descent of Mount Kenya, or prefer to take your chances on the classic Cols of the Tour De France.
Alternatively, you might prefer something a little gentler and for golf fanatics, what could be better than the fairways of USA's top championship golf courses?
Air
For adrenaline junkies who dream of flying, air sports are the way to go. While newbies might prefer a short-lived tandem skydive above the stunning New Zealand scenery at Rotorua, keen jumpers can experience the real thrill with an accelerated free fall course in sunny Sevilla. For the more adventurous types, a paragliding adventure in the Pyrenees should get the adrenaline pumping, while microlighting above the Tijuca National Park in Brazel, the world's largest urban rainforest, will undoubtedly be an experience you'll never forget.
Sea
Well, water to be precise. The open sea, expansive lakes, rushing rivers - the globe's surface is roughly 70 per cent water so make the most of it and try a watersports holiday. Thrill-seekers should try their hand at kitesurfing, perhaps on the Portguese coast, or experience the rush on a whitewater rafting trip to New Zealand, where you can go from the easy to the extreme.
For an altogether gentler water-based activity that will still leave you tired at the end of the day, canoeing or kayaking makes for a scenic break. The breathtaking rivers of Croatia are a great place to start, as you'll be treated to crystal clear waters, winding their way between hills and forests.
Alternatively, why not try your hand at diving. With an introduction to the ins and outs of the underwater world, you can enjoy the astonishing diversity of ocean life on in the waters of Sharm el Sheikh.
Team tours
You don't have to fly solo to take a sporting holiday. More and more companies will now organise team tours for both youngsters and adults of any ability, playing friendly matches or international tournaments. Such companies can provide coach travel, organise games with locals in Europe or across the globe, as well as tours of the hallowed turf of some of the world's greatest stadiums and sports grounds. So whether you are an avid cricketer, a rugby club or a group of keen amateur footballers, a whole world of international competition awaits.
Have your tried an adventure sports holiday? Leave your recommendations below...
