Tuesday, October 27Sports. Travel. Events. Play.

Destinations

Walkers’ Britain launches new ‘taste of’ UK walking trip collection  
Europe, Outdoor & Adventure, Trips & Experiences

Walkers’ Britain launches new ‘taste of’ UK walking trip collection  

European active holiday specialist Walkers' Britain, which is part of the World Expeditions Travel Group, has launched a new range of “taste of” trips for 2025. The trips are a curated collection of walking holidays with shorter distances that offer a perfect blend of active exploration, relaxation and cultural discovery. Designed by an expert team for walkers seeking bucket-list experiences without the time commitment, these trips are no more than six days' long, showcasing some of the UK's most iconic locations. From gentle walks through classic landscapes to exploring cultural treasures, the new itineraries feature carefully crafted routes with shorter distances and abundant opportunities to savour the journey. The new taste of trips focus on comfort and character, with handpicked...
New Orleans: a sports travel city guide 
Destination Guides

New Orleans: a sports travel city guide 

New Orleans, in the state of Louisiana, is a city where sport and culture intertwines seamlessly. Whether you're cheering on the Saints, exploring iconic venues, or attending a major event, the “Big Easy” offers a rich tapestry of experiences for sports enthusiasts and tourists alike. Add in its unique cuisine, vibrant music scene, and historic attractions, and you’ve got a destination that’s second to none. In 2025, New Orleans will be the focus of global sport as its iconic Caesars Superdome plays host to Super Bowl LIX on Sunday 9 February. It’s the 11th time the city has hosted the NFL’s showpiece fixture – eight times in the Superdome with the first three games taking place at Tulane Stadium. In this guide, we take a look at everything sport in New Orleans. Professional sport...
Balearic Islands sports events 2025 – marathons, cycling and more
Destination Guides, Events

Balearic Islands sports events 2025 – marathons, cycling and more

The Balearic Islands – Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera – are set to have a busy sporting year in 2025, with events and activities attracting athletes and visitors from around the world. From marathons and cycling challenges to sailing regattas and tennis, the Balearic Islands offer something for all sports fanatics. Running events The Santa Eulària Ibiza Marathon on 12 April invites participants to experience the beauty of Ibiza with race distances of 12km, 22km, and the full marathon. Runners will pass through scenic villages, coastal paths, and the island’s charming landscapes, before careering down the home stretch on the promenade of Santa Eulària des Riu, meaning racers of all distances finish as one.  On 23 March, the Caixabank Palma Half Marathon & 10K in the Ma...
Sports travel bucket list: an epic European cycling trip from Prague to Venice
Bucket List, Cycling & Biking, Europe, Trips & Experiences

Sports travel bucket list: an epic European cycling trip from Prague to Venice

Cycling holiday company Saddle Skedaddle has a number of new itineraries for 2025, including an epic road cycling trip across four European countries – from Prague to Venice.  One for the 2025 sports travel bucket list, the 21-day road cycling holiday covers almost 900 miles and takes riders from the Czech Republic, across the whole of Austria, east to west through Slovenia, before a grand arrival in Venice, Italy.  The journey from Central Europe to the Mediterranean begins in the capital of the Czech Republic, Prague, before venturing out into the Czech countryside along a mix of country roads and cycle paths. After exploring some of the towns and cities along the way, including the UNESCO World Heritage site, Český Krumlov, it’s time to cross the border into Austria. After crisscr...
Snowsport Scotland & England sign partnership with the High Tatras & Liptov regions of Slovakia
Editor's Pick, Enjoy Tatras, Europe, Sports Business, Winter Sports

Snowsport Scotland & England sign partnership with the High Tatras & Liptov regions of Slovakia

Snowsport Scotland and Snowsport England have announced a new partnership with the High Tatras & Liptov regions of Slovakia for the forthcoming winter season, which will bring the destination into focus for UK clubs, athletes and the recreational snow sports community, offering an exciting and affordable opportunity for winter holidays and training camps. The Slovak Tatra mountains are a relatively unexplored area for Brits, however they offer several world-class ski resorts, exceptional value for money and the very latest technology in lift infrastructure. The region hosts the Alpine World Cup and boasts a season that can run right through to May. Flights with WizzAir and Ryanair, from UK airports start from as little as £15 with transfer times from the nearest ai...
Tennis holidays: LUX Tennis Star Event at Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives
Asia & Oceania, Hotels & Resorts, Tennis & Padel, Trips & Experiences

Tennis holidays: LUX Tennis Star Event at Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives

Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives will welcome former tennis professionals Julia Görges and Wesley Koolhof to the luxury island resort for a LUX Tennis Star Event from 7-14 January 2025.  Featuring a week of group and private lessons with Görges and Koolhof, the programme will begin with a complimentary meet and greet with the players for all guests. Throughout the week, Görges and Koolhof will alternate between one-hour group sessions and 30-minute private lessons. Group clinics will cost guests $90 (£70) a session, with private lessons costing $150 (£115) a session.  Playing on a state-of-the-art court surrounded by Baa Atoll’s tropical foliage, guests at Finolhu have the opportunity to develop their game and enjoy a unique tennis experience.  Currently present in 43 p...
Birmingham: a sports travel city guide 
Destination Guides, Editor's Pick, Europe

Birmingham: a sports travel city guide 

The English city of Birmingham, located in the West Midlands region, has a proud sporting heritage that reflects its rich industrial past and vibrant cultural present. Affectionately nicknamed “Brum”, Birmingham is a hub of activity, boasting a diverse range of sports teams, iconic venues and major events. Whether you're into athletics, football, cricket or an adventurous traveller seeking new experiences, Birmingham offers something for everyone. Main image: Alexander Stadium in Birmingham (Credit: WikiCommons) The UK’s athletics capital in 2025 In 2025, Birmingham will host the UK’s two biggest athletics events of the year: the UK Athletics Indoor Championships at Utilita Arena from 22-23 February 2025 and the UK Athletics Outdoor Championships at Alexander Stadium from 2-3 Augu...
Hiking in Mallorca and Ibiza: new routes to open 
Europe, Outdoor & Adventure, Trips & Experiences

Hiking in Mallorca and Ibiza: new routes to open 

The long-awaited East Mallorca GR-226 hiking route, which stands for Gran Recorrido (Great Tour), is set to open in 2025 on the island of Mallorca in Spain’s Balearic archipelago.  The route, also known as the Gran Recorrido del Llevant, will cover a distance of over 104 kilometres, with a main route spanning 93.81 kilometres, plus two additional access points from Son Macià and the Costa dels Pins.  The GR-226's main itinerary will be divided into four different stages:  Cales de Mallorca-Manacor (24,99km) Manacor – Son Carrio (22.99km) Son Carrio – Arta (23.19km) Arta – Cala Mesquida (22.63km).  Hikers will be able to enjoy the East of the island like never before through various points of interest and areas of natural beauty along the way. See mo...
FIA World Rally Championship: Croatia returns in 2026 and 2027
Europe, Events, F1 & Motorsport

FIA World Rally Championship: Croatia returns in 2026 and 2027

Croatia will return to the FIA World Rally Championship in 2026 and 2027, following the signing of a three-year agreement that will also see the country host an FIA European Rally Championship (ERC) round in 2025.  The agreement reaffirms the commitment that started when Croatia first joined the WRC in 2021 and underscores the country's ongoing role as a key destination for world-class motorsport events.  The contract was announced by Simon Larkin, senior director of events for WRC Promoter GmbH, and Daniel Šaškin, president of the Croatia Rally Organising Committee, in the presence of Croatia’s Ministry of Sports and Tourism State Secretary, Josip Pavić, and Croatian Automobile and Karting Federation president, Robert Markt.  Since debuting in the WRC in 2021, Croa...
The Ocean Race 2027 to finish on the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia 
Events, Middle East & Gulf, Other sports, Watersports & Surfing

The Ocean Race 2027 to finish on the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia 

AMAALA, a new sport and wellness destination located in the northern part of the Red Sea on the west coast of Saudi Arabia, will host the finish of the 15th edition of The Ocean Race in the summer of 2027. The Ocean Race – the mixed-crewed, offshore sailing race around the world first contested in 1973 – is known as the toughest test of a team in sport and for its award-winning ocean health initiatives.  In the build-up to the 2027 race finish, The Ocean Race and Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer of AMAALA and the regenerative project partner of The Ocean Race since 2022, will collaborate on ocean science and ocean health initiatives as well as ocean literacy and education programmes aimed at youth in the region, in line with the UN Ocean Decade Challenge of restoring society’s r...
Courmayeur Mont Blanc set for 2024-2025 ski season 
Destination Guides, Europe, Winter Sports

Courmayeur Mont Blanc set for 2024-2025 ski season 

Courmayeur Mont Blanc, nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps, will launch its eagerly awaited 2024-2025 ski season on 5 December 2024.  A charming ski resort boasting a rich calendar of events set against a backdrop of breathtaking snow-capped mountains, Courmayeur is an ideal destination for sports travellers in search of adventure and outdoor experiences. Activities in Courmayeur include heliskiing, off-piste and cross-country skiing, ice skating, fat biking in the scenic Val Ferret, hiking, dog sledding, snowshoeing, and climbing. The Italian ski resort is conveniently accessible from major international airports in Geneva, Turin, and Milan. With more than 43km of pistes and elevations approaching 2,800 metres, it features enticing ski packages from top tour operators like Mome...
Portes du Soleil: a winter sports travel guide
Destination Guides

Portes du Soleil: a winter sports travel guide

The 2024-2025 winter sports season marks a monumental milestone for the Portes du Soleil, as it celebrates its 60th anniversary. Nestled between Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc, just an hour from Geneva, the Portes du Soleil remains one of the largest and most celebrated ski areas in the world. Spanning the Franco-Swiss border, the ski paradise boasts 12 resorts, offering skiers and snowboarders the unique opportunity to glide seamlessly between France and Switzerland.  All 12 resorts in the Portes du Soleil can be easily accessed from Geneva Airport. A six-day lift pass for the Portes du Soleil area is priced from €336 for adults, €252 for children and €302 for seniors (web prices, until 28 March 2025). See more at portesdusoleil.com   Portes du Soleil: the 12 resorts  Avoriaz (Franc...
Surf City El Salvador: a world-class surfing destination
Destination Guides, Editor's Pick

Surf City El Salvador: a world-class surfing destination

Nestled along the pristine Pacific coastline, El Salvador’s “Surf City” offers a paradise for surfers and adventure seekers. With consistent waves, warm waters, and a laid-back atmosphere, this destination is gaining global recognition and regularly hosts major events on the International Surfing Association (ISA) and World Surf League calendars. Surf City El Salvador is fast becoming one of the top destinations for surfers worldwide, and whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to catch your first wave, it has something for everyone. Best surfing spots Punta Roca: Known as the crown jewel of El Salvador's surf scene, Punta Roca is a world-class right-hand point break. The waves are fast and powerful, making it ideal for experienced surfers. The rocky coastline enhances th...
Self-guided cycling holidays through Italy’s Prosecco hills
Cycling & Biking, Editor's Pick, Europe, Trips & Experiences

Self-guided cycling holidays through Italy’s Prosecco hills

Famous as the destination that produces one of the world’s most popular drinks, Italy’s Prosecco hills are also a Unesco World Heritage Site (awarded in 2019).  Saddle Skedaddle’s gentle, seven-day, self-guided cycling holiday through the vineyards of Prosecco begins with a ride favoured by the locals in the foothills of the Montello, before climbing to the town of Asolo; designated one of Italy’s most beautiful.  Crossing the Piave River into the heart of the Prosecco region, the route passes vineyard after vineyard, including Conegliano Valdobbiadene which produces Prosecco Superiore DOCG, and the exclusive DOCG Cartizze sparkling wine. After exploring the lakes around Revine, Lago di St Maria, and Lago di Lago, the final few days in the saddle takes riders past some of t...
Hong Kong: a sports travel city guide 
Destination Guides

Hong Kong: a sports travel city guide 

Hong Kong, a vibrant metropolis known for its iconic skyline, dynamic culture, and bustling urban life, also boasts a thriving sports scene. The city offers a mix of local and international sporting events, outdoor recreational activities, and world-class venues. Whether you're a sports enthusiast or a casual traveller looking to experience a unique aspect of Hong Kong, there's something here for everyone.  One of the most popular sporting events is the Hong Kong Sevens, a premier rugby sevens tournament held annually at Hong Kong Stadium attracting fans from around the world. In addition to marquee events, Hong Kong is a hub for hiking and trail running due to its mountainous terrain. The city's unique geography also makes it a perfect spot for water sports as well, including drag...
Road cycling holidays: Morocco’s Atlas Mountains 
Africa, Cycling & Biking, Outdoor & Adventure, Trips & Experiences

Road cycling holidays: Morocco’s Atlas Mountains 

With an ever-expanding network of quiet tarmac roads, there’s never been a better time to explore Morocco’s Atlas Mountains by bike. Saddle Skedaddle’s 10-day road cycling holiday takes a challenging route over the mountainous landscape to let riders experience some tough climbs and exciting descents.  Beginning in Marrakech, the trip starts with a steady climb into the Toubkal National Park before joining the old Marrakech to Agadir road to one of the prettiest towns in the High Atlas, Ouirgane. Tackle one of Africa’s highest paved roads, the infamous Test Pass (Tizi-n-Test), before exploring the vast expanse of the Souss Valley. The Anti-Atlas Mountains provide more exhilarating riding as the landscape changes from argan forests to wild moorland.  After a well-earned rest...
Epic Road Rides: five of the best UK cycling destinations
Cycling & Biking, Destination Guides, Europe, Trips & Experiences

Epic Road Rides: five of the best UK cycling destinations

Dig your bike out of the shed and head for the open road on a British cycling adventure. From demanding climbs to sedate converted railway line routes, the team from Epic Road Rides pick out five of the best destinations for cycling in the United Kingdom. Outer Hebrides, Scotland  The magical Western Isles of Scotland are home to the 185-mile Hebridean Cycle Route, an iconic cycling journey taking in 10 islands, including Barra, North Uist, Harris and Lewis. The manageable gradients and fact you can break the route up into whatever chunks you like, makes it ideally suited for a range of cyclists. Abundant wildlife, fun ferry crossings, ancient stone circles, countless white beaches and turquoise waters await those willing to brave the (sometimes ferocious) Scottish wind. This is UK c...
Cycling in Argyll, Scotland, with Markus Stitz and The Pierhouse Hotel
Cycling & Biking, Europe, Trips & Experiences

Cycling in Argyll, Scotland, with Markus Stitz and The Pierhouse Hotel

The Pierhouse Hotel at Port Appin in Argyll, Scotland, has teamed up with leading adventure cyclist Markus Stitz to host a new cycling retreat from 18-20 October 2024. Cycling enthusiasts will be offered the opportunity to join Stitz as he explores some of his favourite Argyll cycle trails on gravel tracks, quiet roads and cycle paths. He will also host a dinner and an entertaining talk for guests. The retreat is part of a wider campaign to attract more cyclists to the hotel and the wider Argyll region over the quieter autumn and winter months. In partnership with Stitz and Bikepacking Scotland, The Pierhouse has created a variety of cycling routes to suit guests with different abilities. Special packed lunches to help fuel hungry cyclists, as well as bike storage and cleaning facilitie...
Cycling adventures in Sweden: the Lelångenleden trail
Cycling & Biking, Europe, Outdoor & Adventure, Trips & Experiences

Cycling adventures in Sweden: the Lelångenleden trail

The Lelångenleden is a new regional cycling route in Sweden stretching 180km from Uddevalla by the sea, through the lakes of Dalsland, and up to the forests of Årjäng in Värmland. This trail offers a diverse cycling experience suitable for all levels, featuring gravel roads, dense forests, and charming rural towns with cultural and natural attractions. Recognised by the Swedish Transport Administration, the Lelångenleden trail follows the historic Lelångenbanan railway line for much of its length, providing cyclists with a unique blend of history and nature. The route offers a diverse cycling experience, with roughly half its path consisting of hard-packed gravel roads with minimal traffic, making it both accessible and enjoyable. A collaborative effort for tourism and recreation ...
Video: BikePark Wales and NRW to transform 400 acres of mountainside
Cycling & Biking, Europe, Outdoor & Adventure, Venues & Stadiums

Video: BikePark Wales and NRW to transform 400 acres of mountainside

UK mountain bike venue BikePark Wales, located in the heart of the Brecon Beacons, and Natural Resources Wales (NRW) have announced plans to transform 400 acres of Welsh mountainside. NRW, which manages the Welsh Government Woodland Estate, has worked closely with BikePark Wales since its first breaking trail in 2013, but a new lease has now been signed to rewild the mountain, add trails and accommodation.  As part of the new 33-year lease, revenue from visiting mountain bikers will be invested in a “Future Forest Vision” that will see the vast majority of BikePark Wales’s mountain return to its natural state. The rewilding plan will see the site change in the coming decades from classic commercial forestry management to a regime that promotes biodiversity gains, improves the resilience...