Top 10 sports destinations

If you like to play as hard as you relax, and you fancy an energetic getaway, take a look at our top 10 sporty holidays. From surfing in Bali to riding in Rajasthan, there's lots out there to get your heart pumping.

A diving adventure

Enjoy powder-white sands, exquisite coral reefs and secret coves when staying at the island paradise of Vamizi. With some of the best diving in Africa, Vamizi is the ideal place for exploring the underwater world or just relaxing in peace and quiet after the summer of sport.

Active in Antigua

Carlisle Bay is a fantastic family friendly hotel in Antigua with a myriad of sporting possibilities. It is particularly good for tennis lovers with 9 tennis courts and some fantastic tennis programmes. Complimentary activities at the resort include use of the swimming pool, sailing, snorkelling, windsurfing, kayaking, gym and tennis. At an additional charge guests can go scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, water skiing and kite-surfing nearby. There are also 2 off-site 18 hole golf courses.

A surfer's paradise

Bali, with its beautiful sandy beaches, exotic culture and friendly people is home to some of the best surf breaks in the world. The Legian is the perfect place to stay to enjoy the best Bali has to offer. Close to some great beaches for surfing and the local shops and restaurants of Seminyak, the hotel is ideal for both families and couples looking for a far away holiday this summer.

Become the next Nadal

Murray may not have lifted the Wimbledon trophy this year, but why not try to become the next tennis star with a holiday to Aphrodite Hills in Cyprus. The Tennis Acadamey overlooks the Mediterranean and features nine floodlit courts (4 clay and 5 hard courts). Private and semi-private tennis lessons are available for all levels and ages (4yrs+).

Glide into Oman

Make an entrance at this Arabian Hideaway in Oman with the opportunity to paraglide over the stunning scenery into the resort. At the Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay you'll enjoy fantastic service from the comfort of your private pool villa. Those looking for something a bit more active can try a game of tennis, an exhilarating mountain-bike ride or a windsurfing lesson.

Out of Africa

Botswana offers some of the most beautiful scenery on earth and what better way to discover it than from horseback. Ride alongside zebra and giraffe, across flood plains and grasslands or even spend the night camped out under the stars in the African Wilderness.

Play ball in Brazil

Still not sick of football? Then head to Brazil, home to the 2014 World Cup and watch a game at the world famous Maracana Stadium, the largest football stadium in South America. Then head to the country’s world-famous beaches to relax, ahead of the start of the new football season in August!

Polo on the Pampas

Argentina, the home of Polo, is the perfect place for a riding holiday with a difference. Visit one of Argentina’s most famous Estancias to try your hand at the game or see how it’s really done by the professionals at the polo championships. You could even combine it with a Tango lesson in Buenos Aires to complete your Argentine experience in style.

Riding in Rajasthan

Exterior view of Mihir Garh Rajasthan India

The boutique Mihir Garh is owned by one of the keenest horsemen in Rajasthan and is therefore the ideal place for an active holiday with a difference. Ride one of the famous ‘Marwari’ horses through the countryside to visit a local village before returning to the luxury of the hotel to watch the spectacular sunset.

Try New Zealand

View from the Boat Shed Auckland, New Zealand

Stunning scenery, world-famous wine, amazing adventures and the famous kiwi hospitality await you in New Zealand, home to the 2011 Rugby World Cup. Spend some time in the city of sails, Auckland, with a stay at The Boatshed, a beautiful boutique property on Waiheke Island, just a short ferry ride from downtown.