If most of your week is spent sat behind a desk, on a busy commute or hunched over a Blackberry, then it’s time to get your blood pumping at the weekend. We picked the top five destinations for an active break away, from smooth sailing in the Norfolk Broads to cycling on the Cornish coast.
Peak District
Why: Covering 555 square miles of Derbyshire, Staffordshire, Cheshire, Greater Manchester, South and West Yorkshire, the Peak District is the fifth largest National Park in England and Wales and home to a myriad of adventure opportunities.
If you’re getting a bit bored of the same weekend walks, try some caving – an exploration of the Peak’s hidden caves and caverns via abseiling or discover the park from up high with an introduction to paragliding.
For those wanting to keep their feet firmly on the ground, the park’s beautiful landscape is host to a number of walking and cycling routes.
For more information, visit: www.peakdistrict.gov.uk
Norfolk Broads
Why: Connecting seven rivers and sixty-three lakes, the Norfolk Broads offers over 200 square kilometres of beautiful waterways to navigate by boat.
Hire a boat and take a day trip across the broads at your own pace, not forgetting to stop off at one of the many riverside pubs for lunch en route. For a slightly more heart-pumping weekend away, take a canoe out on the lakes or get your adrenaline racing with a bungee jump over the broads.
For more information, visit: www.norfolkbroads.com
Camber Sands, East Sussex
Why: Recently used as a filming location for George Clooney and Matt Damon’s latest film, The Monuments Men, Camber Sands is famous for it’s golden sands and grassy dunes, making it ideal for resistance running.
In addition to being a picturesque location to pound the sand, Camber Sands is home to the Kitesurfing school (picture above), where beginners can learn to The Kitesurf Centre with a dedicated instructor. The school provides training for all abilities, offering everything from one day introductory sessions to a five day intensive training course.
For more information, visit: www.thekitesurfcentre.com
Snowdonia, North Wales
Why: The breathtaking mountains and coast of Snowdonia are well worth a visit for the views alone, but the glassy lakes and steep mountains of the region also play host to a number of adventurous activities.
Head to the National White Water Centre and get absolutely drenched on a thrilling raft-ride over the rapids of the Tryweryn or take advantage of over 100 lakes with a fishing trip, making sure to visit the tranquil Tal y Llyn nestled between the mountains.
For more information, visit: www.visitsnowdonia.info
Cornwall
Why: Cycling, cycling and more cycling. Cornwall makes the most of it’s stunning coastal scenery, with numerous routes for cyclists from quieter country paths to more robust off-road routes.
For serious pedal-pushers, Cornish Cycle Tours offer an 8 day cycling package, touring through fishing villages, scenic Cornish coastlines and seaside towns. The route covers approximately thirty miles a day and includes accommodation at each stage.
If a two-wheeled adventure isn’t your idea of fun, Cornwall offers a number of paths and trails, which can be traversed by foot or on horseback, offering beautiful views across the county.
For more information, visit: www.visitcornwall.com
Main image above copyright: The Kitesurf Centre
