Let's be honest, it's absolutely Baltic out. We're now into Spring but it feels like we're in the depths of winter. But the summer is just around the corner and it's time to start thinking about your next holiday!
When it comes to fitness and getting 'in shape' a lot of us work towards a holiday. Well why not try a holiday that combines a break away with adventure, fitness and well-being. We've picked out some of the very best options that will be a far cry from a boozie week in Tenerife.
BIG STYLE ADVENTURES
These lads know how to plan an adventure holiday. Over the past few year Big Style are taking the Dublin & Ireland adventure scene by storm, running everything from a stand up paddle board school (including night trips down the Liffey), surfing weekends from their lodge in Mayo to wild trips to Tanzania where you can learn kite surfing under the hot African sun. They run the Tanzania trips in January & February too so a nice way to avoid the post-Christmas Irish winter. This summer they'll be launching their brand new surf hotel in Mayo too! Keep up to track with the crew on Instagram or visit www.bigstyle.ie for more.
Pure Results Bootcamp
Founded by Operation Transformation presenter Kathryn Thomas, Pure Results Bootcamp focuses on getting you fitter, helping with your confidence levels and inspiring long-term lifestyle changes. A typical day begins at 7am with stretches and light jogging. Every fitness level is catered for – so if you're not running Marathons just yet don't worry. Activities include core workouts, fun team games, hiking, boxing classes, yoga, and kayaking. Super healthy and nutritious meals and snacks will be provided, all of which are free from wheat, sugar and dairy 'to ensure complete detoxification'. Choose either a weekend break or stay for a full 7 days. Either way you'll return feel rejuvenated and ready to take on life's challenges.
For more visit: pureresultsbootcamp.com
The WAVE, Counties Donegal and Cork
Founded by two wellness entrepreneurs, The Wave offers three wellness retreats along Ireland’s beautiful Wild Atlantic Way. With two in Cork and one in Donegal, choose between three and six night’s accommodation and enjoy local cuisine as prepared by the head chef. Activities include yoga, circuit training and a beach run, as well as a scenic hikes. Time is allocated every day for chilling out, giving you time to relax and clear your mind. Personal training is also available as an optional add-on for anyone who wants it.
The locations of WAVE have chosen are some of the most beautiful in Ireland and worth the trip alone.
Learn more at waveireland.com.
Footfalls
If you love walking then check out Footfalls. It has a number of week-long packages designed to show you some of the most remarkable scenery our island has to offer. An eight-day walking tour of Donegal and Antrim takes in the mighty wilderness of Slieve League, Ireland’s highest seacliffs; Glenveagh National Park and McSwyne’s Gun Loop Trail at Dunfanaghy; the Giant’s Causeway and the trail at Glenariff Forest Park aka “Queen of the Glens”. Walks average around 10km a day so your steps counter will explode with excitement.
Learn more here: walkinghikingireland.com
FitFarms
Just across the Irish sea check out FitFarms, the UK weight-loss and fitness company that runs a range of specialised programmes, including women-only courses, for people with disabilities or courses designed for parents and children aged nine to 18. The company promises the entire family will be kept busy from early morning until 7.30pm (maybe don't tell the kids that). You will go through a range of activities that are challenging but always manageable. You'll also have time to relax and have a little 'family time'.
If you think your family could do with a little team bonding check learn more at Fitfarms.co.uk
Cliffs of Moher Retreat
Located at one of Ireland's most popular tourist attractions, The Cliffs of Moher Retreat is a purpose-designed, luxury retreat venue that offers weekend and week-long yoga retreats throughout the year. Absorb yourself in silent cliff-top walks, organic produce and wild Atlantic scenery. You'll feel yourself slipping into a state of calm with their yoga and meditation classes. If that not enough there’s a sauna and hot tub, plus great swimming and surfing down the road at Lahinch if you fancy braving the Atlantic cold waters.
Learn more at cliffsofmoherretreat.com
Cloona Health Retreat
Cloona is a long established centre dedicated to cleansing and detox retreats that will leave you feeling re-energized and invigorated. Situated in a charming converted woollen mill, restored by Tibetan monks in the 1960’s, Cloona lies half way between Croagh Patrick and the Heritage town of Westport in a varied landscape of woods, hills, valleys and breathtaking views.
You don't have to be a 60's hippy to love every moment your in Cloona. It's set against a backdrop of some of the most beautiful scenery on the West. Run by Dhara Kelly, son of the founder, and an experienced team, the retreats currently include yoga, walking, meditation, sauna, massage, wheatgrass, juice fasting, and various other new age practices and treatments.
Well worth check out: www.cloona.ie/