Posted on : 18-04-2016 12:31

Putting the adventure into your holidays

If you love experience new things and do something different on your holidays, then an adventure break is certainly well worth considering, and if you have a look around, you’ll find there are many companies offering tours all over the world offering a vast number of adventures to quench your thirst.

From walking to abseiling, there is something to suit everyone’s thirst for adventure so let’s take a look at some popular destinations and see what sort of adventures there are to be had.

United States of America

It is only natural that we should look at one of the largest countries, as their offering to the adventure market is a sizable chunk of activities. Tour operator Grand American Adventures specialises in just America so is a great place to start if you wanted to visit the states.

1. Walking tours – there are so many beautiful places to see in America, and many can be experienced through a walking tour. Taking in some of the National Parks is a great idea, and there are many to choose from, including the John Muir trail that starts in Yosemite National Park or the stunning Yellowstone National Park. Alternatively, you could hike around The Grand Canyon.

Many companies offer walking tours to suit all abilities and ages plus you can either camp out or choose hotels for your stopovers. There are so many amazing places to visit on a walking tour of the US; you will certainly not be disappointed wherever you choose.

2. If walking is not your thing then maybe skiing is. Some say the US snow makes for the perfect skiing experience, with Colorado coming out on top of the popularity stakes due to its high altitude producing a light whisper like snow.

Other areas to check out would be Aspen and Breckenridge as possible destinations. There are companies like Crystal Ski who offer only ski holidays so a great starting point to tailor make a skiing holiday for any adventurous soul.

3. Active holidays are also on offer, and whether you love the idea of rafting in the Grand Canyon or horseback riding in the Wild West there is sure to be something to suit you. Many tour operators offer specific breaks or packages where you can build your own holiday so do not be afraid to ask for more if you want it!

Tasmania

Tasmania is one of those places that can be over-looked by many, but with a relatively low population the fantastic wilderness reserves and strong farming roots make Tasmania an amazing adventure destination.

1. Sport based adventures – Australia is known for its love of sport and this is the case in Tasmania too. You can surf in the Southern Ocean in Hobart, Bruny Island or Marrawah to name but a few. The beaches are not busy leaving you to enjoy the waves.

Tasmanian Odyssey offer a high adrenaline, action packed adventure where you can abseil, rock climb, canoe, surf and bush walk your way through your break – you’ll probably need another one to get over it though!

2. If that sounds like too much for you, why not take in the spectacular sights on an arts and culture tour. Visiting Hobart, the gateway to the Antarctic or Salamanca’s stunning historic waterfront or even the winery in Launceston where you are sure to try some award winning Pinots or Sauvignons, you’ll experience everything Hobart has to offer without the risk of breaking bones!

Chile

Located at one of the furthest points in the south of the World, Chile is sure not to disappoint if you choose to visit. The breath taking views of the Andes or Patagonia’s mix of culture, lakes, deserts and wildlife will leave you wondering where to start in this beautiful country.

1. Cycle breaks – cycling across terrain in Chile will not only challenge you physically, but also mentally. Travel operator Exodus offer a 9 day cycle tour of Chile and Argentina, where you can cross the Andes Lake, visit Monkey Puzzle forest and gaze in awe at the active volcanoes.

2. Treks across mountainous ranges are also on offer and you can also camp out in the wilderness, not something you do everyday!

3. Being so close to the glaciers, skiing is also an option here. Resorts such as Portillo, Valle Nevado and La Parva offer ski and snowboarding experiences. The best times to visit are between mid July and early September as the snow is at its finest.

Croatia

If you have never thought about travelling to Croatia, you may be missing out. The country is steeped in history and was even the location for filming Game of Thrones, a popular television show that now draws travellers to the area to see where it all happened. However, there is much to do in Croatia besides film location hunting.

1. Sea Kayaking – there are tons of caves, inlets and harbours to discover around the coastline of the Dalmatian Coast. Conservationist Jacques Cousteau describes it as ‘the cleanest sea in the world’, which has negligible tides and currents meaning kayaking is suitable for beginners as well as the more able.

2. Mountain biking – with a number of National Parks, touring around a few is a great way to take in the sights while still being active. There are mountains to tackle and remote places to visit that are only really accessible on a bike. You are sure to stumble upon natural beauty during your tour. This is of course, a tour where you would have to be moderately fit as some of the environments can be challenging.

Israel

You could be mistaken for thinking Israel only has the Holy Land to offer its visitors but you would be wrong. Recent years have seen an increase in the amount of people visiting for adventure type breaks also. With deserts and the cool waters of the Red Sea, there is contrast and beauty in Israel and the chance to experience new adventures such as those below:

1. Cycling across the desert – The Judean or Negev desert offers rough terrain and outstanding views. Use a bike to travel around cities such as Jerusalem and Tel Aviv; with their historic cultures you will be speechless with what is out there.

2. Food tours – if you love to experience authentic tastes and aromas of a country, then why not take on a food adventure. One such trip offered by Intrepid Travel, takes you to places where you can have cooking lessons and sample the local cuisine while taking in the real sights and smells of a country soaked in good food.

3. Religious – we cannot talk about Israel without mentioning religious tours. These have been a staple for many years. Pilgrims come to the Holy Land to explore the biblical sites including the shores of Galilee and Jerusalem.

Tour Operators

If it is adventure you need, whatever the level or type then knowing where to start is a good idea. Here are three UK tour operators that are well versed in adventure booking, which should give you a base to start from when planning your next adventure holiday.

Exodus Travel

Exodus boasts 40 years experience offering adventure holidays. Their team of travel experts have visited many of the countries on offer so you are sure to be speak with someone with first-hand knowledge of the trip, location and activities. With 450 itineraries in over 90 countries, including family, polar, wildlife and activity holidays, there has to be something that would offer you the trip of a lifetime. You can visit their website at exodus.co.uk.

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel offers holidays that submerse you in the local way of life, allowing you to fully appreciate your surroundings. Incorporating Wildlife, Urban Adventures, Polar, Sailing and Food as well as Expeditions, Intrepid have a lot to offer the traveller.

Keeping groups small – averaging around 10 on a tour, they want you to enjoy the holiday and not feel rushed. Established initially by two adventurers who loved to travel, they now have dedicated teams who can offer you help and assistance when you come to choose your next adventure break. Visit their website at Intrepidtravel.com for destination ideas.

Adventure Worldwide

With over 25 years experience, Adventure Worldwide specialises in adventurous and active holidays. Their destination list is vast ranging from Europe to Africa. They also offer a number of different types of holiday – Cultural, Adrenaline, Walking, Cycling and Wildlife to name a few.

They even offer ‘Really out there’ trips, which they say is for exceptionally adventurous people where you can take wild journeys - for example to remote parts of Mongolia. To find out more, visit their website at Adventureworldwide.co.uk.

All adventured out?

Any of the options above would be great as your next adventure. When choosing a tour operator, ensure they have ABTA and are ATOL protected so you don’t get caught out and make sure they can meet your needs - if they can’t, then find someone else – there are many tour operators offering different ideals so you do not have to stick with the first you stumble across.

Trips of a lifetime don’t happen often, so make sure you enjoy every breath-taking minute. Whether you are taking the family or travelling alone, don’t let anything stop you from booking your next adventure – you’ll certainly have plenty of stories to tell on your return!

UKACP