Warm vacation destinations in winter - our top recommendations for sports trips

After summer is before winter. Maybe you're like us and you're already dreading winter - wet, cold, dark - is there a worse combination? And that for what feels like an eternity. For many, the dark half of the year doesn't just affect us physically, it also affects our minds. Our batteries are empty and we long for sunshine, warmth and relaxation.

With a sports trip in winter, you benefit in several ways: sport on vacation not only has the advantage of keeping you fit. Sport also boosts your mood and, in combination with sun, warmth and beautiful nature, ensures maximum energy and happiness hormones.

Imagine starting your day with a round of beach workout on the beach right outside your door. Then you cool off in the pool and chill out in the sun. During the day, you explore the impressive natural surroundings on a hike and end the day with a round of yoga at sunset while it storms and snows at home. How does that sound?

In this blog post, we introduce you to some of the best travel destinations that not only offer you sun and relaxation, but also the best conditions for a perfect winter sports trip. From CrossFit under palm trees in Thailand to yoga, surfing and fitness vacations in Morocco or a sports and wellness week in Tenerife - there's something for everyone here. Pack your sneakers and flip-flops and join us on a trip to the sun!

Topic overview:

• Why a sports trip in winter?
• Warm vacation destinations in winter - our top recommendations
  • Thailand
    • Holistic sports trip to Koh Samui
    • Sports trip Phuket: Bootcamp, Muay Thai, Fitness Chalong & Yoga
  • Morocco
    • Sports trip to Morocco: yoga, surf & fitness retreat on Taghazout beach
  • Tenerife
    • Sports trip Tenerife: Experience CrossFit, yoga, personal training, beach workouts, chill & action on Costa Adeje
  • Sri Lanka
    • Sports trip Sri Lanka: Premium Fitness Retreat Makahiya
• Conclusion

 

Why a sports trip in winter?

Winter can often feel endless. Between gray skies, cold weather and little sunlight, many people find it difficult to maintain motivation for an active life. With most outdoor activities no longer easily possible due to the weather, sport and exercise often take a back seat. This is where sports travel comes into play - especially in winter.

Advantages of sports travel in the winter months

1. increase well-being: more than just physical fitness
Sport and exercise release endorphins, the so-called "happiness hormones". They act like a natural antidepressant. Especially in winter, when many people suffer from the widespread winter blues, sport can be an important mood booster. Not to forget: sports activities in a group - be it CrossFit, beach workouts or hiking - offer the opportunity for social interaction. Social contacts are often neglected, especially in winter. Yet they are essential for human well-being and can help to improve mental health.

2. stock up on vitamin D: more than just sunbathing
Vitamin D is produced by our skin with the help of sunlight and is known as the "sun vitamin". In the winter months, especially in northern latitudes, UV radiation is often so weak that the body's own production of vitamin D comes to a standstill. This can lead to a number of health problems, including a weakened immune system, fatigue and even depressive moods.
In sunny destinations, there is plenty of natural light and therefore the opportunity to replenish vitamin D stores.

3. strengthen immunity: Why sport is so important in winter
The cold months are known to be the peak season for colds, flu and other infections. Many people withdraw during this time and spend more time indoors, where viruses can be transmitted more easily. The immune system is also often weakened by the lack of sunlight and cold temperatures. Sport promotes health and strengthens your cardiovascular and immune system.

4 The combination of fitness and recovery: no progress without balance
Sporting activity is not only physically demanding, but also on a psychological level. After an intensive sports session, the body needs time to regenerate. These rest phases are necessary to build up muscles and prevent injuries. However, everyday stress caused by work, commitments, deadlines, pressure to perform and other factors also ensure a constantly high stress level for many people.
In a well-thought-out sports journey, fitness and recovery are therefore not seen as separate elements, but as synergetic components - like yin and yan. Relaxation offers such as massages, yoga or wellness treatments help you to calm your body and mind and recharge your energy at all levels.

5 The appeal of sunny destinations
Winter in sunny, warm regions has its very own charm. While it's cold and snowy at home, you can lie on the beach in your bathing suit and send selfies:-) Or surf. Or work up a sweat with a beach workout. These contrasts make a sports trip in winter particularly appealing.

In short: a sunny destination in winter offers more than just pleasant temperatures and a nice tan. A sports trip in winter offers the perfect opportunity to escape the daily grind, improve your physical and mental well-being and recharge your batteries for the coming year. In the next section, we present our top destinations for such sports trips.

 

Warm vacation destinations in winter - our top recommendations

Thailand

If you want to swap winter for a tropical paradise, Thailand should be at the top of your list. This exotic destination not only offers beautiful beaches and breathtaking nature, but also a wide range of opportunities for a sports trip that leaves nothing to be desired.

Weather and climate: pleasantly warm temperatures & dry season
While it is cold and uncomfortable in Europe, Thailand usually enjoys pleasant temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Winter in Thailand falls in the so-called dry season, which lasts from November to April. During these months, you can expect little rain and warm temperatures between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius. The sea is pleasantly warm at 26-28 degrees and is ideal for all kinds of water sports activities. While the humidity in the rainy season is often perceived as oppressive, it is much more pleasant in the dry season - perfect conditions for a sports trip.

Muay Thai & first-class fitness camps
One of the highlights in Thailand is certainly training in Muay Thai, a traditional Thai martial art. There are many high-quality fitness camps in beautiful natural surroundings with a wide variety of training options.

Yoga and meditation
Thailand is also a mecca for yoga enthusiasts. Whether on a remote island or in one of the many specialized resorts, yoga retreats in Thailand are an excellent way to bring body and mind into harmony.

Water sports
The coasts of Thailand are ideal for water sports such as diving, snorkeling, surfing and kayaking. The warm, clear water and the rich underwater world offer an unforgettable experience.

Hiking and trekking
For the adventurous, Thailand offers numerous hiking routes through jungles and mountains. The north of the country is known for its trekking tours to remote mountain villages.

Wellness and spa
After a hard day's training, there's nothing better than relaxing in one of the country's luxurious spas. Many resorts offer special sports massages and wellness treatments that are perfectly tailored to the needs of athletes.

Nutrition: healthy, fresh, exotic
Thai cuisine is not only delicious, but also healthy. With a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables and lean proteins, it is ideal for athletes. Many resorts also offer special diet plans and detox programs.

Cultural diversity
In addition to the sporting opportunities, Thailand also offers a wealth of cultural activities. Temple visits, cooking classes or traditional dances can provide a nice change from the sports program and broaden your horizons.

With its combination of beautiful nature, diverse sporting activities and first-class wellness offers, Thailand is a perfect destination for a sports trip in winter.

 

With the Travelling Athletes to Thailand

If you are looking for sun, sport and relaxation, this tropical paradise is the perfect place to be in winter. This is precisely why our Thailand sports trips are among the absolute winter favorites at Travelling Athletes. Get to know our most popular Thailand sports trips:

Holistic sports trip to Koh Samui

The highlights at a glance

• Premium fitness camp with a holistic approach:
  • Outstanding facilities: outdoor gym on the beach, yoga shala, boxing rings, machines, functional equipment and much more.
  • Extensive range of courses: weight training, TRX, MetCon (metabolic conditioning), kettlebells, abs, Muay Thai (martial arts), boxing, HIIT, Jungle Run, yoga & beach workouts; personal training (optional)
  • Spa and wellness offer: e.g. massages, nutritional advice, healthy juices & shakes, holistic care
• Beach resort in dreamlike surroundings:
  • 4-star beach hotel directly on the dream beach of Ban Thai and only a 5-minute walk to the fitness camp
  • Large suite with private jacuzzi
• Healthy & high-quality full board:
  • Healthy & balanced meals, freshly prepared by the camp's own chef and customizable (vegan/vegetarian options etc.)
  • Shakes, fresh juices, nutritional advice included
• Surroundings & activities:
  • Breathtaking waterfalls, unique jungle landscapes, markets, temples, water sports and much more
• Private airport transfer (return journey)
• Travel insurance
• Personal contact at your side before, during & after the trip (24/7)

To the detailed travel description Koh Samui

Sports trip Phuket: Bootcamp, Muay Thai, Fitness Chalong & Yoga

The highlights at a glance

• Train at the world-famous Tiger Muay Thai Camp
  • Wide range of courses: (Beach) Bootcamp, HIIT, Muay Thai /Thai Boxing, BodyFit, Strength & Conditioning, Yoga, WOD's at Fitness Chalong, and much more.
  • First-class outdoor and indoor area, qualified trainers and athletes from all over the world
  • Optional: private Muay Thai lessons, personal training
• Camp accommodation with Standard, Deluxe & Premium options
  • Depending on room category with direct pool access
• High-quality full board in the camp's own restaurant "Tiger Grill"
• Surroundings & activities:
  • Beautiful beaches, culture & the world's most famous fitness mile
• Travel insurance
• Airport transfer (optional)
• Personal contact at your side before, during & after the trip (24/7)

Detailed travel description Phuket

Morocco

Morocco, the land of contrasts: surfer's paradise, Sahara desert, imposing mountain ranges, spa stronghold, unique culture and adventure. Especially in winter, Morocco becomes an ideal destination for those who love fitness, relaxation and a mild climate.

Weather and climate: sunny days and cool nights
Morocco, located in the northwest of Africa, offers a particularly pleasant climate during the winter months. The country's geographical location and topography make for an interesting mix of Mediterranean and desert-like climates.
From December to February, temperatures in Morocco vary greatly depending on the region. On the coast and in the lowlands, temperatures range between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius during the day, while it cools down to around 8 to 12 degrees at night. It can be significantly cooler in the mountain regions. In the southern regions near the Sahara, temperatures can rise to 20-25 degrees Celsius.

Overall, Morocco offers many sunny days in winter and an ideal climate for an unforgettable sports trip with a touch of the exotic.

Fitness options in a class of their own
Morocco has become a hotspot for fitness fans in recent years. The beaches of the Atlantic coast or the picturesque mountain landscapes of the High Atlas offer the best conditions for an intensive training program in a breathtaking setting. From boot camps on the beach to well-equipped gyms and specialized training programs such as calisthenics - Morocco has the right offer for every fitness level and preference.

Surfing and water sports
The Atlantic coast of Morocco, especially places like Taghazout and Essaouira, are known for their excellent surfing conditions. Numerous surf schools and camps offer courses for beginners to advanced surfers.

Hiking and trekking
The High Atlas and other mountain ranges offer excellent opportunities for hiking and trekking. Many tours are also possible in winter if you want to avoid the snow-covered heights.

Yoga and meditation
Many resorts and retreats in Morocco offer yoga and meditation courses in breathtaking natural surroundings. The silence of the desert or the tranquillity of a mountain village are ideal places to find inner balance.

Wellness and spa
Moroccan hammams and wellness centers offer a variety of treatments that are perfect for recovery and regeneration after an intense sporting activity.

Healthy, fresh & aromatic cuisine
Moroccan cuisine is known for its rich flavors and healthy ingredients such as olive oil, fresh vegetables and spices like turmeric and cinnamon, which have a positive effect on overall health.

Cultural experiences
A visit to the souks of Marrakech, a traditional Moroccan dinner or an overnight stay in the Sahara can add a very special touch to your sports trip.

The mild and pleasant climate, the diversity of the country and the quality of the fitness and spa facilities combined with the unique culture make Morocco the perfect destination for a winter escape.

With the Travelling Athletes to Morocco

Of course, Morocco is also high on our list of favorites due to its many advantages. Get to know our holistic premium sports trip, which makes surfers', yogis' and fitness fans' hearts beat faster:

Sports trip to Morocco: yoga, surf & fitness retreat on Taghazout beach

The highlights at a glance

• Holistic sports program in one of the top 5 surf, yoga & spa resorts worldwide:
  • Fully equipped indoor & outdoor area with everything you need for a good workout (weights, dumbbells, functional equipment, etc.)
  • Varied course program: cross-training, stretching, Pilates, Body Attack, Fitness Abs, Balance Training, Power Step, Beach Bootcamp
  • Surfing: Professional surfing lessons (90 min. daily) at the popular surfing hotspot of Taghazout (for beginners and pros)
  • Yoga: Daily yoga classes (75 min.) in a dreamlike setting
• 5-star eco resort away from the hustle and bustle on a private sandy beach:
  • Optional room categories from suites to bungalows and villas, all with breathtaking sea views
• Fresh & healthy breakfast buffet:
  • With products from the organic farm (optional half board)
• Surroundings & activities:
  • Kilometers of sandy beach, numerous water sports activities, day trips e.g. to Essaouira or Agadir
• Airport transfer (optional)
• Travel insurance
• Personal contact at your side before, during & after the trip (24/7)

Detailed travel description Morocco

Tenerife

The Canary Islands, especially Tenerife, are an excellent choice for those who want to escape the winter and combine beach, sun, sport and relaxation without too much effort.

Weather and climate: Stable, warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine
On the sunny island, you can enjoy temperatures between 18 and 22 degrees Celsius during the winter months. Rainy days are rare and the mild conditions are ideal for all kinds of outdoor activities and sports. With an average of six hours of sunshine per day in winter, Tenerife offers plenty of opportunity to top up on vitamin D, boost your mood and swap your winter pallor for a summery complexion.

Modern gyms and facilities
Tenerife offers a range of state-of-the-art gyms and facilities, qualified trainers and a large community of sports enthusiasts. In addition to a wide range of courses from functional training to CrossFit and spinning, there are also numerous studios offering Pilates and yoga classes. Tennis courts, golf courses and even climbing walls are also available. No matter what type of training you prefer, you are guaranteed to find it on Tenerife.

Outdoor activities
The island offers a unique mix of beaches, mountains and forests. The choice of outdoor activities is huge: hiking, cycling or trail running - you'll never get bored here.

Water sports & beach activities
Tenerife's extensive beaches are the perfect backdrop for morning jogging, surfing, beach volleyball or intensive beach workouts.

Wellness and relaxation
After an active day, you can pamper yourself in one of the numerous wellness centers with massages and saunas or cool off in an ice bath.

Tenerife, often referred to as the "island of eternal spring", is therefore not just a wild card in terms of its pleasant climate. With its wide range of sports, outdoor activities and beautiful beaches, it offers the perfect balance of fitness, relaxation and sunshine for a sports trip.

With the Travelling Athletes to Tenerife

It is not surprising that Tenerife is at the top of our TOP-selling trips and has become a customer favorite. The reasons are obvious: quick & easy arrival, stable temperatures, beach, sun, nature and reliable quality without any big surprises. That's why we offer several travel packages with different training focuses: Whether you love CrossFit, beach bootcamps in a group are your thing, the Krav Maga camp is just right for you or you prefer individual support in personal training - we have the right travel package for you. Get to know our absolute best-seller here:

Sports trip Tenerife: Experience CrossFit, yoga, personal training, beach workouts, chill & action on Costa Adeje

The highlights at a glance

• Holistic sports program:
  • Unlimited access to TOP Box CrossFit 27
  • Individual introduction & meet-up for all Travelling Athletes
  • Access to all courses & to the Open Gym (free training)
  • 1x per week gymnastics / technique coaching exclusively for Travelling Athletes
  • 2 hours of personal training included (more optional)
  • Beach workouts: Intensive functional training on the beach
  • Sunset yoga right by the sea in a dreamlike setting
• Apartment hotel with sea view - right next to your box
  • Fully equipped apartments with living area, kitchen & balcony
  • Optional 4-star apartment hotel directly on the beach
• Healthy, fresh and customized sports catering
  • Prepared by our chef according to your wishes and delivered directly to the hotel
• Surroundings & activities:
  • Stargazing trip - one of the top 3 places for stargazing
  • Numerous hiking options & surf course (optional)
  • Teide - Europe's highest volcano
  • Numerous dream beaches within easy walking distance
  • Large selection of restaurants, bars & clubs
• Airport transfer (optional)
• Travel insurance
• Personal contact at your side before, during & after the trip (24/7)

Detailed travel description Tenerife

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka - a tropical fitness oasis and one of the most picturesque and warmest places in the world during the winter season. Also known as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean", the island offers the perfect combination of tropical climate, breathtaking nature and first-class fitness facilities.

Weather and climate: Tropical, dry and lots of sunshine
Sri Lanka enjoys a tropical climate characterized by two monsoon seasons. The advantage of the winter season: from November to February, when it is at its most uncomfortable in Europe, the weather is dry and sunny in most of Sri Lanka's tourist areas.
Temperatures average a pleasant 27-30 degrees Celsius during these months. The coastal regions are warmer and more humid, while the highlands, where places like Nuwara Eliya are located, can be cooler. The sea is warm and inviting, ideal for water sports or simply relaxing on the beach.

High quality fitness resorts
Many resorts and hotels in Sri Lanka have first-class fitness facilities. These range from fully equipped gyms to specialized fitness programs where you can work out in functional training, CrossFit, Hiit or personal training - all under the guidance of professional, certified trainers.

Beach and water sports
Sri Lanka's beautiful coastline offers the perfect backdrop for being active: whether it's a morning run or beach bootcamp, or would you rather be in the water, surfing, snorkeling or diving?

Yoga and meditation
Sri Lanka is known for its spiritual energy and is ideal for yoga and meditation. Accordingly, there are numerous yoga retreats on offer, often in picturesque locations between the jungle and the ocean. The best conditions for finding peace and inner balance.

Outdoor activities
Sri Lanka has more than just beautiful beaches. Nature is breathtaking and offers unique experiences while hiking in the mountains, rafting in the national parks or cycling through tea plantations.

Wellness and Ayurveda
The island is known for its millennia-old Ayurveda tradition, a natural healing method that brings body, mind and soul into harmony. Many resorts and spas offer special Ayurveda treatments, massages and detox cures.
The natural healing springs and thermal baths, where you can relax after an active day, are also very popular.

Culinary experience
Sri Lanka's local cuisine is rich in fresh vegetables, fruits and spices, which are not only a treat for the palate, but also perfectly complement the fitness lifestyle. A popular dish, for example, is "kottu", a mixture of vegetables, egg and flat bread, often supplemented with chicken or fish. Or freshly caught fish and seafood, grilled with a mixture of local spices. For vegetarians and vegans, Sri Lanka also offers numerous options, from dhal (lentil curry) to a variety of vegetable curries.

If you like it tropical and are looking for an alternative to the classic vacation destinations, Sri Lanka is the perfect place for you in winter. A pleasant climate, excellent sports facilities, unique wellness offers, fantastic beaches, lush jungle landscapes and fascinating traditions.

With the Travelling Athletes to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a real insider tip and has therefore also earned a place in our hit list of top recommendations for sports trips in winter. Get to know our tropical fitness pearl:

Sports trip Sri Lanka: Premium Fitness Retreat Makahiya

The highlights at a glance

• You train in a luxurious health and fitness resort:
  • Wide range of daily classes such as boot camp, pool workout, live DJ workout, Muay Thai, mobility, ice bath
    High-quality outdoor and indoor areas with a wide range of equipment (sandbags, sledges, tires and hammers, medicine balls, slam balls, plyo boxes, etc.)
  • Certified trainers & personal training
  • Sports massage
• Retreat facility in a modern jungle atmosphere:
  • Boutique room with balcony
  • 16 meter long infinity pool
• Fresh and balanced full board in the in-house restaurant:
  • Individually tailored to your dietary requirements (vegan, gluten-free, paleo, etc.)
• Surroundings & activities:
  • Quiet location on a beautiful green hill with a great view of the jungle landscape
  • 20 minutes from Ahangama - one of the most popular surf spots on the island (surf course optional)
  • Other activities such as hiking, horse riding, yoga can be booked on site
• Airport transfer (optional)
• Travel insurance
• Personal contact at your side before, during & after the trip (24/7)

Detailed travel description Sri Lanka

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Conclusion

As you can see, there are fantastic destinations, near and far, that are ideal for a sports trip, especially in winter. So why torture yourself through the winter and hole up in the gym or, in the worst case, on the couch?

• Thailand attracts visitors with its exotic culture, pleasant bathing temperatures, paradisiacal beaches and a variety of sports options - from Muay Thai to yoga on the beach.
• Morocco, a hotspot for surfers and fitness fans, offers optimal conditions for an active sports vacation as well as an exceptional wellness offer and impressive landscapes.
• Tenerife is the reliable all-rounder - stable, pleasant temperatures, great training conditions, beach, relaxation and fascinating nature.
• And last but not least, Sri Lanka - a country where you can recharge your batteries not only physically but also mentally, with its rich Ayurveda tradition, high-quality fitness resorts, beautiful beaches and jungle feeling.

Each of these destinations offers the perfect mix of activity, relaxation, good food, adventure and culture. What takes priority is entirely up to you.

Perhaps your time window is limited and short flight times are important to you.
Or your stress levels are extremely high and you simply need a place to recharge your batteries, train and relax.
Perhaps you want to consciously treat yourself to more than a few days of winter escape and immerse yourself in a completely different world.

All these needs play a role in the decision. That's why you can put together your own personal sports trip with us to suit your wishes. Sports trips - as unique as you are:-)

Now it's up to you - where will your sports trip take you next winter?

Here you can find information about current retreat dates in winter:

• AnnaMakesButter x Travelling Athletes Retreat December 2023