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Sports travel bucket list: hiking and island hopping on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast
Bucket List, Holidays & Trips

Sports travel bucket list: hiking and island hopping on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast

Step off the tourist trail and onto Croatia’s spectacular Dalmatian coast and its islands with a seven-day hiking adventure. Offered by travel company Island Hopping, this journey combines rugged trails with boutique stays, weaving through hidden coves, historic towns, and breathtaking seascapes. Guided by local experts, travellers can uncover the authentic heart of Croatia – its culture, heritage, and natural beauty – one step at a time. The "Croatia Island Explorer" trip begins in the ancient city of Split, looping through the picturesque islands of Brac and Hvar, before returning to Split's scenic waterfront. Guests will follow historic trails and hike to breathtaking peaks, exploring iconic landmarks and stunning natural wonders along the way. Daily hikes average 5.8km with highligh...
Intrepid Travel unveils new premium walking and trekking trips
Holidays & Trips

Intrepid Travel unveils new premium walking and trekking trips

Adventure travel company Intrepid Travel has unveiled its range of new premium walking and trekking trips to some of the world's best hiking trails. Departing from January 2026 and led by Intrepid's most experienced local leaders, Intrepid's premium range is the company's most comfortable travel offering, where travellers can expect handpicked accommodation, premium service and exceptional included experiences. Spanning five continents and ranging from three to nine days, the 10 new premium trips feature hikes through Italy, Madeira, Vietnam, Nepal, Morocco, Peru, Jordan and the United States. Since its 2022 launch, premium has become Intrepid's fastest growing travel style, while sales of its well-established walking and trekking range have also grown. Intrepid has seen an 89% incre...
Swim England and SwimTrek partner to promote open water swimming experiences 
Sports Business

Swim England and SwimTrek partner to promote open water swimming experiences 

Swim England, the national governing body for swimming in England, has partnered with SwimTrek to help more people discover swimming through the growing appeal of open water experiences.  This new collaboration with the adventure swimming holiday company is part of Swim England's broader mission to get more people swimming more often – by making the sport more accessible, inclusive, and connected to real-life experiences. With outdoor swimming continuing to grow in popularity, teaming up with SwimTrek enables Swim England to reach new audiences and inspire people who may not have engaged with traditional swimming environments.  Andy Salmon, CEO of Swim England, said: “We want to show that swimming isn't limited to pools. By working with SwimTrek, we can open up exciting new path...
The Chedi Niseko: new hotel in Japan’s alpine ski region set for 2029 opening
Hotels & Resorts, Sports Business

The Chedi Niseko: new hotel in Japan’s alpine ski region set for 2029 opening

Chedi Hospitality has announced its long-anticipated entry into the Japanese market with The Chedi Niseko – an exclusive alpine development of a boutique hotel in the heart of Hirafu, Niseko. Set for completion in June 2029, this milestone marks the brand's re-entry into Asia and cements its growing authority in the world's most exceptional alpine destinations.  Positioned within one of Japan's most celebrated ski and nature regions, The Chedi Niseko will offer seamless access to world-class slopes, vibrant culinary offerings, and year-round outdoor pursuits. The development responds to increasing international demand for elevated, experience-led stays in Japan and reflects Chedi Hospitality's signature approach to crafting design-led, culturally attuned destinations.  Step...
Sports travel bucket list: 10-day Japan ski and culture tour
Bucket List, Editor's Pick, Holidays & Trips

Sports travel bucket list: 10-day Japan ski and culture tour

As Japan’s popularity for luxury skiing continues to grow, Wayfairer Travel has launched a 10-day Japan ski and culture tour to meet rising demand. Projected to become the luxury travel company’s most popular destination in 2025, bookings to Japan have increased by 32% since 2024.  Japan is the world’s most sought-after skiing destination due to its exceptional snow conditions and unique cultural  experiences. Influenced by cold Siberian winds, the region consistently receives light, dry powder snow known as ‘JaPOW’, which, combined with Japan’s distinctive tree skiing, sets it apart from other winter destinations around the globe.  Wayfairer’s new itinerary is packed with both metropolitan city exploration and off-the grid adventure – a fantastic tour for travellers seeking immersiv...
Sports travel bucket list: padel and tennis at The Datai Langkawi in Malaysia 
Bucket List, Editor's Pick, Holidays & Trips

Sports travel bucket list: padel and tennis at The Datai Langkawi in Malaysia 

The Datai Langkawi has partnered with LUX Tennis to bring world-class tennis and padel coaching experiences to the iconic Malaysian rainforest resort – making it the first resort in Langkawi to introduce padel courts.  Through its partnership with LUX Tennis, the resort further enhances its existing activity offering with bespoke sporting experiences, including premium coaching and tailored programmes. Nestled within the enchanting rainforest surroundings of The Els Club Teluk Datai, The Datai Langkawi's tennis and padel facilities provide the perfect setting for guests to elevate their game, refine their skills, compete against a professional, or simply enjoy an exhilarating match in a breathtaking natural setting.  Stéphane Duvacher, general manager of The Datai Langkawi, said...
Australian Grand Prix Corporation and Quint launch exclusive travel programme
Sports Business

Australian Grand Prix Corporation and Quint launch exclusive travel programme

The Australian Grand Prix Corporation (AGPC) has launched a new travel package programme for the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix and the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, in partnership with Quint Australia, a provider of official travel, hospitality and experience programmes. Known as Australian Grand Prix Corporation Travel, the exclusive travel programme will provide fans of Formula 1® and MotoGP™ with access to ticket, hotel, travel and experience packages, designed to enhance event attendance and create long lasting memories.  Launching for the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Australian Grand Prix from 5-8 March 2026, the travel programme will aim to increase interstate and international travel to AGPC events, expanding on the tourism and economic benefits to Victoria.  Operating und...
MENA Golf Tour relaunches with Keith Waters as chairman and commissioner
Sports Business

MENA Golf Tour relaunches with Keith Waters as chairman and commissioner

The MENA Golf Tour makes its anticipated return in 2025 with former DP World Tour chief operating officer and Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) board member Keith Waters appointed as chairman and commissioner. Waters’ extensive experience and strategic leadership are expected to significantly elevate the Tour’s status and influence.  Established in 2011, the MENA Golf Tour remains the only OWGR-recognised circuit headquartered in the Middle East, providing vital opportunities for professional golfers from the region and around the globe. The addition of Waters, who brings more than 40 years of expertise developing the DP World Tour and was instrumental in founding the OWGR in 2004, is set to be transformative.  “I’m delighted to be involved in the relaunch of the MENA Golf...
Sport in Dubai – a sports travel city guide
Guides

Sport in Dubai – a sports travel city guide

Dubai has rapidly evolved into one of the world’s most dynamic sports tourism destinations, attracting fans, athletes, and adventurers from every corner of the globe. From international tournaments that bring together the biggest names in sport to community festivals that celebrate fitness and wellbeing, the city offers an action-packed calendar of events throughout the year. Whether it’s watching the world’s best golfers compete in the DP World Tour Championship, witnessing the electric atmosphere of the Emirates Dubai 7s, or catching elite tennis stars at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, the emirate delivers unforgettable sporting moments on a global stage. Yet Dubai’s appeal extends well beyond the stadiums and arenas. Blessed with a dramatic desert landscape, pristine coast...
Golf Tourism South Africa launches to promote golf travel across the country
Sports Business

Golf Tourism South Africa launches to promote golf travel across the country

A new era for South African tourism has begun with the launch of Golf Tourism South Africa (GTSA), currently the only national platform solely focused on promoting golf tourism across the country. Registered as a Non-Profit Company (NPC), GTSA brings together the golf, travel, wine, hospitality, and lifestyle industries under one collaborative umbrella – with the mission of positioning South Africa as a world-class golf tourism destination. GSTA has been founded by Cuthbert Simphiwe Ncube, chair of the African Tourism Board, global tourism leader, and GTSA director; Charlene Thomson, founder of We Women Golf Magazine, golf tourism expert, and GTSA co-visionary; and Lynnqwinda Scott, founder of Visit Africa, digital marketing strategist with more than 20 years in tourism, branding, and ...
2026 FIA World Rally Championship calendar: 14 rounds confirmed 
Calendars, Events

2026 FIA World Rally Championship calendar: 14 rounds confirmed 

The FIA and WRC Promoter have unveiled the calendar for the 2026 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), confirming 14 rounds across four continents. The season begins at Rallye Monte-Carlo from 22-25 January 2026, with crews tackling France’s icy alpine roads in one of rallying’s most iconic settings. A spectacular street stage in downtown Monte Carlo on Saturday evening adds extra drama and glamour to an already demanding weekend. It’s the start of a calendar that blends snow, gravel and asphalt events – including returning rounds in the Canary Islands and Paraguay following their introductions in 2025 – before culminating in the desert terrain of Saudi Arabia from 11-14 November 2026. Notably, the opening half of the year brings a welcome mix of surfaces. Asphalt rallies in Croatia, t...
Aphrodite Hills: Cyprus resort announces sports hub renovation plans
Hotels & Resorts, Sports Business

Aphrodite Hills: Cyprus resort announces sports hub renovation plans

Aphrodite Hills – a five-star golf and leisure resort on the southwest coast of Cyprus – has unveiled plans for a major refurbishment to its sports hub. Easily accessible from the cities of Paphos and Limassol, the resort spans 234 hectares and includes a 290-room hotel, real estate options, a championship 18-hole golf course, tennis academy, award-winning spa facilities, dining and shopping, horse riding facilities and kids’ clubs.  Elevating the resort’s reputation among Europe’s premier sporting destinations, the project will see the venue’s racquet retail outlet renovated to feature a new style that blends country club ambience with sleek modern designs – serving as a one-stop shop for quality racquets, balls and apparel.  Also set for a major upgrade are the resort's changing...
Europe’s best hotels and resorts for tennis holidays
Guides, Holidays & Trips, Hotels & Resorts

Europe’s best hotels and resorts for tennis holidays

In the Luxury Travel Trend Watch: 2025 report, first revealed by Globetrender founder and CEO Jenny Southan at the 2024 Virtuoso Symposium in Dubai, “racketeering” was named as one of the seven key luxury trends to watch out for in 2025. The trend of racketeering, a term coined by Globetrender, reflects the growing popularity of racket sports like tennis, pickleball and padel being played during holidays.  To meet the growing demand, hotels and resorts are investing in state-of-the-art courts, clinics and tournaments. In this guide, we look at some of the best places to book for tennis and padel holidays in Europe.  Main image: Verdura Resort, a Rocco Forte Hotel Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como, Italy    The iconic Grand Hotel Tremezzo's Art Nouveau...
2025’s biggest sports travel trends
Editor's Pick, Holidays & Trips, Sports Business, Trends

2025’s biggest sports travel trends

Sports travel is booming in 2025, fuelled by a growing demand for immersive, active, and socially-conscious experiences. One of the standout trends is the rise of purpose-driven travel, with fans and athletes seeking trips that combine sport with sustainability, local culture, and wellness. From marathons in eco-conscious destinations to community-led surf retreats, travellers want to feel good about where they go and what their trip supports.  Adventure and endurance sports are also surging, with destinations offering multi-day cycling tours, trail running events, and triathlon camps to meet rising interest in personal achievement and outdoor escapism. Meanwhile, the growth of padel and pickleball is driving new regional events and sports holidays, especially in Europe and the Mid...
Sports travel bucket list: cycling South Africa’s Garden Route
Bucket List, Holidays & Trips

Sports travel bucket list: cycling South Africa’s Garden Route

Exodus Adventure Travels invites riders to embark on a two-wheeled adventure. The tour operator offers an extensive collection of cycling holidays for all levels, from scenic coastal rides to challenging mountain routes across the globe.  Highlights include a new 14-day journey along South Africa’s iconic Garden Route, designed in collaboration with marathon mountain biker Tarryn Povey, as well as epic rides through Portugal’s Atlantic coast, Italy’s Puglia region, the Andes, and southern India. Each trip combines expertly guided routes with authentic cultural experiences for unforgettable cycling adventures. Cycling South Africa’s Garden Route This new two-week adventure was designed with Tarryn Povey – one of South Africa’s top marathon mountain bikers – and showcases the b...
Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 England: fan zone locations confirmed 
Editor's Pick, Events, Sports Business

Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 England: fan zone locations confirmed 

England is set to host a nationwide celebration for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, with fan zones unveiled in official host locations across the country. Running from 22 August to 27 September, and with more than 330,000 tickets already sold, the tournament will take place across eight venues throughout England, making it the biggest celebration of women’s rugby ever staged.    The fan zones, which will be free to enter, will be open on match-days and at various times throughout the six-week tournament, offering fans, residents and visitors a chance to enjoy the atmosphere and take part in the biggest celebration of women’s rugby.  At the heart of the action will be Battersea Power Station, which has been unveiled as the official tournament fan zone in London, in partnership with ...
Sports travel bucket list: play tennis on a floating court at a French château
Bucket List, Hotels & Resorts

Sports travel bucket list: play tennis on a floating court at a French château

As if staying at a 13th century château in France was not idyllic enough, tennis lovers are in for a real treat at Domaine des Étangs, Auberge Resorts Collection in Massignac. The property in the Charente region in south west France is home to a floating tennis court, gracefully placed on a tranquil pond near the swimming pool.  Exemplifying the Domaine’s ethos – blending luxury with whimsy, seamlessly integrated into its natural, art-filled setting – the floating tennis court has been widely featured as one of the world’s most beautiful and unique tennis courts. Giving the chance to “play a match on water”, this unique facility also offers spectator viewing benches, shaded by trees, so guests can enjoy the action in comfort. Other activities for guests to enjoy include walks ar...
Saddle Skedaddle marks 30th anniversary with ‘classic’ cycling holiday to Chile and Argentina
Holidays & Trips

Saddle Skedaddle marks 30th anniversary with ‘classic’ cycling holiday to Chile and Argentina

To mark its 30th anniversary in autumn 2025, independent cycling holiday company Saddle Skedaddle has spotlighted a range of 'Skedaddle classics' – trips that have shaped the company over the past three decades and gone on to become firm favourites. Holidays include a guided cycling adventure holiday through the Chile and Argentina Lake District (the first destination Saddle Skedaddle visited in 1995); a guided coast to coast mountain bike holiday in Sardinia (Saddle Skedaddle’s first destination in Italy); and a guided road cycling holiday from Bilbao to Barcelona (the company’s most popular road cycling holiday in Spain).  Here we take a look at the guided cycling adventure holiday through the Chile and Argentina Lake District… Cycling in the Chile and Argentina Lake Distri...
Equestrian travel: the world’s best luxury hotels for horse lovers
Editor's Pick, Guides, Holidays & Trips, Hotels & Resorts

Equestrian travel: the world’s best luxury hotels for horse lovers

Whether you're an equestrian enthusiast or are simply wanting to enjoy a unique, luxury getaway, the world’s best equine hotels offer thrilling horseback riding experiences as well as immersive and life-changing wellness programmes and unparalleled nature immersion. Here, the experts from The Equine Collective pick out five of the best horseback riding resorts and equestrian retreats around the world – from South Africa's wild plains to Indonesia's sun-drenched beaches and turquoise seas Siwash Lake Wilderness Resort & Ranch: luxury horseback riding in British Columbia, Canada  Best for: wilderness, regeneration and horse–human bonding Siwash Lake is an award‑winning, off‑grid luxury dude ranch nestled in 10,000+ acres of regenerating wilderness following a major 2017 fire. I...
A guide to Camiral – host resort of golf’s Ryder Cup in 2031
Editor's Pick, Guides, Holidays & Trips, Hotels & Resorts

A guide to Camiral – host resort of golf’s Ryder Cup in 2031

Formerly the PGA Catalunya, Camiral, a Quinta do Lago Resort is a world-class golf and wellness resort between Girona, the Costa Brava beaches and Barcelona. Home to two championship courses and a PGA National Academy, Camiral has been selected to the 2031 Ryder Cup – a prestigious return of the tournament to Spain after 34 years. Camiral’s selection marks Spain’s second time hosting the men’s golf team event between Europe and the US since Valderrama in 1997. According to reports, the event is predicted to have an economic impact of more than €1.3 billion and attract 300,000 visitors to the region. One of Europe’s most acclaimed golf destinations, Camiral has hosted multiple DP World Tour events, including the Open de España and the Final Stage of the Qualifying School. Its world-re...

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