Active holidays you can book right now

Alyssa James

Forget about being 'beach body ready', this year it's all about being a healthier you, and there's no better way to motivate yourself than with an active holiday. From cycling and diving to hiking and sailing, we've paired exciting outdoor activities with beautiful destinations to create a wonderful wish list for any lover of the great outdoors.

Active holidays you can book right now: our top six

Whether you're experienced at your chosen activity or it's all completely new, there's sure to be an activity for you, either on land or at sea, while discovering so much more about your chosen holiday destination. Six of the best activity holidays you could book right now include:

Cycling in Majorca, Spain

This Balearic island has a diverse terrain perfect for all levels of cyclist: novices can take it easy through almond groves while expert cyclists will enjoy the challenge of climbing the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range.

Majorca cycling holiday © Philip McErlean - Flickr CC BY-ND 2.0

If you prefer to just add some cycling into your travel plans, base yourself in Cala Millor on the east coast. There are a number of cycle-friendly hotels and beautiful coastal routes on the way to Llevant Natural Park. For a great value cycle break to Majorca, look no further than Jet2holidays, which offers specialist cycling breaks to the island.

Horse riding in Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia has a long tradition of horse riding, and the majestic animals are often featured at events like the L'Ardia, an ancient horse racing festival held in July. If you love horses or just want to explore Sardinia using its traditional mode of transport, then you have plenty of options to choose from.

Far & Ride organises wonderful riding holidays where you'll be based in a country hotel by Monte Ferru, while being served gourmet organic meals and local wines. Alternatively, if you're looking to simply explore the island on four legs for a day or an afternoon you can take your pick of riding stables across the island. If you're after a great value break, check out Neilson which specialises in holidays to the Italian island.

Diving in Cozumel, Mexico

Cozumel is one of the western hemisphere's premier scuba diving destinations, and consistently tops lists of the best dive sites in the world. Thanks to its well-preserved reefs, divers can see marine wildlife like seahorses, nurse sharks, sea turtles and as many as 250 species of fish. The dive sites lie south of the city and are easily accessed by a short boat ride.

Drift dive with Hawksbill turtle, Cozumel © Sidne Ward - Flickr CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

You can typically take beginner scuba diving trips with your hotel on the island; certified divers will have more success asking for recommendations on-site. Be sure you don't miss out on diving in Mexico's cenotes. These underwater caves are one of the unique pleasures of diving in the region, and shouldn't be missed. Why not make your break to Mexico extra special by going all inclusive? First Choice offers great value holidays to the Riviera Maya.

Surfing in Fuerteventura, Spain

My surf instructor told me that he loves teaching in Fuerteventura because it's never flat - it's known for its wind - but there are always waves that are perfect for beginners. In fact, the coastline stretching from Corralejo to El Cotillo is considered to be one of the most consistent locations in Europe.

Surfing class on El Cotillo Beach, Fuerteventura © fabcom - Flickr CC BY-NC 2.0

Planet Surf Camps can organise week-long surf trips for any level of surfer, which include accommodation, wetsuit and board hire, as well as daily surf lessons. A trip to Fuerteventura is a beach holiday with a difference, and with all of the paddling you'll certainly earn a paella and a pint! Go to On the Beach for the latest deals to Fuerteventura all year round.

Sailing in Split, Croatia

Sailing is challenging, but highly rewarding - especially in Croatia where the backdrop to your activity are the cliffs and islands of the Adriatic coast. With over 1,000 islands to explore and sheltered passages in between them, a sailing trip in Croatia is the perfect place to learn.

Sailing in Croatia © Rui Ornelas - Flickr CC BY 2.0

Ultra Sailing runs six-day courses from Split aimed at anyone from complete beginners to those who want to improve their skills. If island hopping from ancient ruins to secluded beaches is more your style, you can still enjoy a sailing holiday: hire a catamaran with a skipper for the full experience. For a cheap break to Split, try easyJet holidays with its many offers on combined flights and hotel bookings to Croatia.

Hiking in Iceland

Iceland is a place that you'll want to keep going back to: geothermal pools, waterfalls, lava fields, and deep fjords are just some of the country's natural wonders. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking Icelandic scenery with trekking holidays that only run in the summer between June and September.

Discover the World offers a collection of walking and hiking itineraries for all skill levels who want to get closer to nature. For travellers who prefer the 'weekend stroll' kind of walking, Reykjavik has plenty of landmarks that can be visited on foot. For great value fares to Iceland, don't miss the launch of BA's new route from London Heathrow to Reykjavik from October 2015.

Feeling inspired to try and active holiday this year? Check out the latest online deals from the likes of Viator and Neilson, which offer some great value activities and holidays in destinations around the world.

Alyssa James

Posted on Wednesday 12th August 2015 in: Adventure Europe Summer