5 Active Getaway Ideas to Inspire Your Next Trip
If you’re dreaming of a break that energises as well as relaxes, an active holiday could be just what you need. These trips offer the chance to explore the great outdoors, try something new, and stay moving, all while enjoying stunning locations.
Whether you’re hiking through dramatic landscapes, skiing down snow-covered peaks, or enjoying coastal walks with your four-legged friend, there’s something to suit every interest and fitness level.
This guide offers five inspiring ideas for your next adventure, from dog-friendly escapes in Devon to high-altitude thrills in the Alps. Get ready to plan your next active getaway.
Hiking in the Lake District
For nature lovers and walkers, the Lake District is a top-tier destination. With rugged mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and charming villages, it’s a place where every trail tells a story. From gentle walks around Derwentwater to challenging ascents like Scafell Pike, the area offers routes for all fitness levels.
Many hikes reward you with panoramic views, quiet picnic spots, and glimpses of local wildlife. The landscape changes with the seasons – lush and green in summer, golden in autumn, and dramatic during winter’s frost. Local inns and B&Bs provide cosy places to rest, and many trails start right from your doorstep.
It’s not just about the physical activity either – hiking in the Lakes is a chance to disconnect, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the outdoors. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with family, the Lake District’s well-marked trails and welcoming communities make for a rewarding active escape.
Holidays with Pets in Devon
Travelling with your dog doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort or adventure. Holidays with pets can be some of the most memorable. The UK offers a wealth of dog-friendly destinations, with coastal towns like Torquay providing scenic walks, pet-welcoming cafés, and access to nearby countryside trails.
Booking one of the many dog friendly holiday cottages in Torquay ensures you and your pet have space to relax after a day outdoors. Many cottages come with enclosed gardens, cosy fireplaces, and even pet-specific amenities. From beach strolls along Babbacombe Bay to hikes across Dartmoor National Park, Torquay is a fantastic base for an active holiday with your dog.
Local pubs and eateries often allow well-behaved pets, making it easy to include your four-legged friend in every aspect of your trip. With stunning coastal paths and mild weather, a holiday with your dog in Torquay is both easy and enriching.
Surfing in Cornwall
Cornwall is one of the UK’s most popular destinations for surfing and water sports. With over 400 miles of coastline and a laid-back beach culture, it’s the perfect place to catch your first wave or improve your skills.
Newquay is the beating heart of the surf scene, home to consistent waves and plenty of surf schools offering lessons and gear hire. Fistral Beach and Watergate Bay are top spots for both beginners and intermediates. Beyond surfing, the region offers paddleboarding, coasteering, and scenic cliff walks for a full coastal adventure.
Accommodation ranges from beachfront hostels to boutique hotels, often just steps from the sand. After a day in the sea, enjoy a seafood supper, watch the sunset, or gather around a beach bonfire. Surfing in Cornwall combines adrenaline and tranquillity, giving you an active yet restorative break that captures the essence of seaside living.
Skiing in the French Alps
Few holidays combine exhilaration and beauty quite like skiing in the French Alps. The region is home to world-renowned resorts offering vast ski areas, modern lift systems, and snow-sure conditions.
For those seeking luxury and performance, premium ski chalets in Meribel provide an unbeatable base. These high-end chalets often include ski-in/ski-out access, spa facilities, gourmet catering, and stunning alpine views. Meribel is part of the vast Three Valleys ski area, giving skiers access to over 600km of pistes suitable for all levels. Whether you’re carving fresh powder, learning on gentle slopes, or tackling off-piste terrain, there’s endless opportunity for adventure.
After a day on the mountain, enjoy après-ski in the lively village or relax in the comfort of your chalet. With a blend of charm, quality accommodation, and breathtaking scenery, Meribel makes for an unforgettable active getaway that blends excitement with high-end comfort.
Cycling in the Scottish Highlands
Cycling through the Scottish Highlands is a spectacular way to experience the region’s untamed beauty. Quiet country roads and well-marked trails lead you past glens, lochs, and towering peaks, offering a true sense of freedom and connection to nature. Routes like the Great Glen Way or the North Coast 500 cater to different cycling styles, from road cycling to mountain biking.
Along the way, you’ll encounter ancient castles, whisky distilleries, and warm Highland hospitality. There’s no shortage of welcoming inns and B&Bs where you can rest and refuel after a day on the bike. The landscape may be wild, but the infrastructure for cyclists is excellent, with plenty of resources and support available.
Whether you’re after a relaxed multi-day ride or an intense off-road challenge, cycling in the Highlands delivers both physical activity and soul-stirring scenery. It’s an unforgettable way to explore one of Britain’s most dramatic regions.
Summary
An active getaway offers more than just a holiday; it’s a chance to recharge both body and mind. Whether you’re carving down the Alps or cycling through the Highlands, these experiences create lasting memories. From luxury lodges to coastal cabins, there’s an adventure to match every pace and preference. Stepping outside your routine and into the outdoors could be the best travel decision you make this year.