Not every holiday needs to be spent lounging on the beach or by the pool with cocktails in hand. For the more active, there is nothing quite like an active holiday to be both refreshing and energizing. From the die-hard adventurer to anyone who just wants to keep the legs moving while taking in new places, there are as many possibilities to stay active while taking a break from the daily routine as there are places to go.
Hit the Trails
One of the easiest ways to become active while immersing yourself in nature is to go hiking. With everything from easy nature walks to multi-day hikes, there’s something for every level of fitness. National and state parks in the U.S. have thousands of miles of scenic trails. Shenandoah National Park in Virginia is a popular choice with its vistas and wildlife viewing.
Cycle Through Scenic Routes
Cycling is exercise and sightseeing, whether you’re pedaling the Blue Ridge Parkway or through Napa Valley’s rolling vineyards. Bike rentals and safe routes are available in most locations as well. For coastal charm, bike trails along North Carolina’s Outer Banks provide scenery and exercise that is difficult to surpass.
Paddle Into Adventure
Kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding lets you explore waterways at your own pace. Lakes, rivers, and coastal areas all provide different experiences—from calm paddles perfect for beginners to more challenging whitewater adventures. In Virginia, the James River or Smith Mountain Lake are both great locations to experience the water.
Camp with a Twist
For others who wish to compromise between comfort and outdoor activity, a combination of nature with a touch of luxury is ideal. Instead of camping, most people nowadays are opting to go glamping in NJ, which is close to scenic trails, peaceful lakes, and a cozy place to unwind after a day of hiking or kayaking. It’s a great way to spend an active vacation without forgoing the comforts of a hot shower and warm bed.
Get Involved in Local Sports
Most places offer an opportunity to participate in group sports or outdoor classes—like beach volleyball, park yoga, or even surfing classes. Not only will these keep you moving, but you’ll also get to meet new people and interact with the local scene.
Plan a Fitness-Focused Retreat
If structure is what you like, then a fitness retreat could be perfect. These holidays usually include supervised exercise, healthy eating, and restorative pursuits like meditation or massage. Either in a mountain or beach environment, they are a chance to rejuvenate body and mind.
Conclusion
An active vacation can be just as refreshing and restful as a slothful one—just a different kind of fill-up. So go ahead, whether you are hiking in the mountains, kayaking down a river, or treating yourself to a luxury glamping resort, the key is to do what moves you. And who knows? You might find you return home even more energized than when you left.
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