The Best Activity Holidays for Solo Travellers
The thought of travelling the world alone might seem daunting at first but the unparalleled sense of freedom and flexibility on offer is just too enticing to miss. Solo travel is booming right now, with single trips more than doubling since 2011!
This surge in solo travel has led to an explosion of activity holidays specifically designed for independent explorers. Whether you crave the thrill of white-water rafting or the serenity of a yoga retreat, there's an adventure waiting for you.
Naturally, you may have some reservations about setting off by yourself, especially if you’re a woman travelling alone. You always need to exercise caution wherever you explore, but you’ll be pleased to hear that there are many safe destinations for female solo travel.
Here are some of the best activity holidays recommended for solo travellers:
Hiking
Lace-up your boots and hit the trail! Hiking holidays are a fantastic option for solo travellers who love the outdoors and breathtaking scenery.
If you don’t fancy braving the wilderness on your lonesome, many companies offer guided group hikes so you can explore new landscapes with fellow adventurers and experienced guides and put your mind at ease.
There are so many exciting destinations to experience on foot, from the stunning trails of Patagonia to the dramatic peaks of the Himalayas. The beauty of group hikes is the camaraderie and shared experience while still allowing you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Extreme and difficult hikes are always good to do as part of a group as this also adds an element of safety.
However, if you are a beginner and prefer to just do some entry level walking, you should give a go to the Spanish Camino trail (known as the Camino Santiago). This trail of pilgrim routes starts from various points in Spain, Portugal or France and ends in the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
Skiing
Carve your way down pristine slopes on a solo ski holiday! Ski holidays are perfect for solo travellers, as well as couples and families! Group lessons allow you to hone your skills alongside others, while shared accommodation provides a chance to meet fellow skiers and swap stories over dinner.
Many ski resorts are incredibly well-equipped for solo travellers, with ski rentals, convenient on-site amenities, and even après-ski activities designed for socialising.
Whether you're a seasoned skier or a curious beginner, hitting the slopes with a group of fellow adventurers is a fantastic way to experience the thrill of winter sports and make new friends along the way.
Yoga
Unwind, recharge, and reconnect with yourself on a solo yoga retreat. Yoga retreats offer a unique opportunity to combine physical activity with mindfulness and relaxation in a supportive and social environment.
Many retreats cater specifically to solo travellers, providing a safe space to learn, practice and connect with like-minded individuals.
Destinations like Bali, Thailand, and Costa Rica are popular choices, offering stunning backdrops and a variety of yoga styles to suit all levels. however, you can also find these retreats closer to home, all around Europe.
Yoga retreats can be a transformative experience for solo travellers, fostering inner peace, improving flexibility, and leaving you feeling rejuvenated and ready to explore further.
Cycling
Solo cycling tours offer the freedom to explore charming towns, breathtaking landscapes, and hidden gems at your own rhythm. These tours typically provide well-mapped routes with varying difficulty levels, comfortable accommodation options and luggage transportation, allowing you to focus on enjoying the ride.
The camaraderie on a cycling tour is another highlight. Whether you're tackling challenging climbs or enjoying leisurely rides through picturesque villages, you'll be surrounded by fellow cyclists who share your love of adventure.
These tours sometimes offer unique opportunities to immerse yourself in local culture and enjoy a more authentic experience.
City Tours
The best way to get the know the region you’re visiting and meet other like-minded travellers is by joining a walking or cycling city tour.
Make use of the knowledge and expertise of local tour guides to discover the city's nuances. They should be able to answer any questions you have about architecture, history and culture – it’s a perfect way to occupy a few hours of your day!
Whether you’re exploring by foot or two wheels, be sure to book your chosen tour in advance and remember that tourists are expected to tip guides for their time. If you prefer to meander through a city without purpose, absolutely do so!
Embark on your own city tour by sunbathing in parks, visiting museums and sip coffee at a café all on your schedule.
Local events
Getting involved in local events and festivals is a great opportunity to immerse in your chosen destination. There are some truly unique local traditions to participate in, from truffle foraging in France and tomato fight festivals in Spain to woodcarving in Indonesia.
Lively street festivals often come alongside music performances, theatrical productions and delicious street food. Gain unique insight into the authentic celebrations and lives of locals, while meeting other travellers such as yourself.
Since your focus is primarily on the performance in front of you, it’s a great activity for solo adventurers to not feel alone.
Season Work
For solo travellers looking to make some extra pennies alongside their adventures, seasonal work is the solution.
Aside from the obvious financial benefits, seasonal work will put you in contact with other seasonal workers with similar interests and expands your own knowledge and skill base. That’s not to mention the free housing and food that often comes with seasonal work.
From bar work and repping to campsite jobs and ski instructors, there are so many different types of short-term work to choose from. The best part? There is an end date, so you have something to look forward to and you get to carry on with your travels with an improved budget.
Seasonal work is also a key element of practicing sustainable tourism and contributing towards the country you’re living in.
So, ditch the fear of flying solo and embrace the world of activity holidays. With the right attitude and planning, you'll be well on your way to an unforgettable adventure filled with new experiences.
Nothing really tickling your fancy above? That’s the best of solo travelling – you have the freedom to choose exactly how you want to spend your time and with who.
Jenny Kakoudakis likes to blog about interiors and lifestyle. She launched award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2014. When she is not chasing criminals out of the financial system (her day job), she focuses on mindfulness.
Read her ideas about filling your home with positivity here
