15 Active Fitness Camp Vacations & Adventure Retreats

Are you tired of the same old vacation routine? It’s time to shake things up! An active vacation could be just what you need to break the monotony. Active vacations are not only fun, but they also allow you to stay fit while exploring new places.

You want to get away, but feel productive?

You want to not just see somewhere new, but experience it?

You want to enjoy great food, but know it’s healthy?

You want to break your routine, but still sweat?

A fitness retreat might just be what you’ve been looking for to break loose of the plateau you’ve hit or see the world in a whole new way.

A fitness retreat or active vacation offers you something more than a resort with plush robes and soft spoken massage therapists, it will leave you invigorated, filled with memories and likely a new level of confidence.

It can range from that upper end luxury plush bedding and spa treatments, to roughing it in the wilderness. And if you’re just looking for an active vacation you can do on your own, check out Iceland or even Phoenix!

What are Active Vacations?

Active vacations are a unique blend of travel and fitness that focus on physical activities and health. 

Instead of just lounges and leisure, these vacations are about running, hiking, swimming, or any other physical activity that gets your heart pumping. They’re perfect for health travelers who love to stay active, explore, and try new things.

Active vacations can be anything from a running tour through a new city, a personal training retreat, or a hiking trip in the mountains. 

The key is to choose activities you enjoy, so your vacation feels like a fun and exciting adventure, not a rigorous workout routine.

How to Choose the Right Active Vacation?

Choosing the right active vacation can be a fun yet daunting task. But don’t worry, as a running coach and personal trainer who has a ton of experience with active vacations, I’ve got some tips to help you out:

• Fitness Level: Consider your fitness level. Not all active vacations are created equal. Some might involve intense hiking or running, while others might be more relaxed, like yoga retreats. Choose one that suits your current fitness level. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the vacation and push yourself as well but to not exhaust yourself.
• Personal Preference: Next, think about what you enjoy. Do you love the water? Maybe a surfing or diving vacation would be perfect for you. Prefer the mountains? Consider a hiking or trail running trip. It’s your vacation, so make sure it’s something you’ll love.
• Location: Also, think about the location. Some people might love the idea of a fitness retreat in a remote location, while others might prefer to be near a city where they can mix fitness activities with sightseeing.
• Budget: You’ll also need to set your budget. I’ve made sure to include active vacation ideas in all price ranges so you’ll definitely be able to find one that fits your budget and needs.
• Season: When you take your active vacation will affect your overall experience. So take a minute to consider what you’re in the mood for. In the summer, you have a wide range of options. You could go for a run on the beach, engage in water sports, or even hike in the mountains. On the other hand, winter provides its own set of opportunities. You can go skiing, snowboarding, or even ice skating. Spring and fall also offer their own unique benefits. The moderate weather in these seasons is perfect for running, biking, or hiking.

15 Active Vacations: Retreats for Adults

Over the last few years, I’ve been truly blessed to try out a few of these different adventures. I’ve linked to my complete review where appropriate and let’s just say I’m hoping this becomes my must-do checklist!

I believe there is no better way to see the world than through my two feet and love how these vacations are organized to get you in touch with the location.

You won’t be passing the green fields through a bus window, you’ll be grasping it in your hands, lungs and heart.

Most retreats are generally limited to small groups, which means advanced planning is key! They sell out quickly and for a good reason, so without further ado here are 15 fitness vacations to get your vacation planning started:

Run Mindful Retreat – Running, Yoga

Location: Malibu and Boulder

A few years ago, meditation and mindfulness started to become more mainstream. Doctors were prescribing it, Dan Harris wrote the incredible book 10% Happier, we heard about Oprah, Steve Jobs and other mega-superstars crediting mediation for their success.

Meanwhile, runners have known for years that our solo time is a great chance to clear the head. But there is a more focused practice which can indeed make us better runners.

These retreats involve miles of trails, plenty of healthy food, time outdoors, and small intimate group atmosphere.

You’ll get to run on some of the most beautiful trails in the world, all while learning from experienced running coaches and mindfulness experts.

Read the full review >>

Soulstice Retreat – Unique Fitness Classes/Bonding Classes

Location: Park City, Utah

When it comes to changing up your routine, the classes offered at the Soulstice Retreat will likely be unlike any you done before from sunrise Vinyasa yoga atop a mountain overlook at 9,000 feet to Stand Up Paddleboard Yoga in a geothermal spring crater.

These classes are complemented with daily Pilates reformer classes, aerial yoga, barre classes, trail runs, and more in the beautiful Park City area.

This retreat is also designed to feed your body and soul with small group talks, lectures, and three nourishing meals a day.

Additionally, since this is done in partnership with Albion Fit, you’ll arrive with a goodie bag worth over $1500 that will prep you to look and feel your best all week.

WellFit Malibu – Hiking/Cross Training/Weight Loss

Location: Malibu, California

If you’ve ever watched any weight loss competition show, you’ve probably had a little nudge in the back of your mind that thought “hmmm a week of workouts and healthy food would probably help me get back on track“.

Regardless of your desire to lose weight or not, there is something immensely appealing about dropping all of your daily MUST DO’s for a week that’s focused on nothing, but you.

This retreat does have a weight loss focus, so you’ll be eating wonderful food but in calorie-controlled portions, then spending your morning hiking and your afternoon in a cross-training class

Read the full review >>

ViaYoga – Surfing/Yoga Lovers

Location: Mexico and Costa Rica

If learning to ride a wave and quieting your mind is at the top of your must-do list, this is the retreat for you.

Each day a morning yoga session is followed by meditation, whole foods, and time to prepare for an afternoon surf session (or stand-up paddle boarding).

First-time surfer? No problem, ViaYoga works with professional surf instructors to keep you safe and enjoy the process of learning.

After time in the ocean, the day finishes with a second yoga practice to unwind and flow easily into dinner, where you can chat about the day and enjoy a margarita before walking back to your luxury beach front villa for the night.

Another unique feature of this camp is the rotation of yoga instructors, as each will bring a different methodology and focus to the camp. Be sure to read their bio and find one who fits your goals.

Self Discovery Camp – Yoga/Self Work/Hiking

Locations: Amalfi Coast, Algarve Portugal, Poconos (for 2024)

“This retreat will blow your mind, and your fears right out of the water.” That’s the opening statement to describe this seven day retreat focused not just on yoga, but on pushing you to do the mental work that will break you out of bad habits, a life rut, or move towards your next goal.

Between all the introspective work there will be time for waterfall hikes, salsa dancing, massages, excursions and yes even group hypnosis to reduce stress and build confidence.

Expect this luxury, eco chic adventure to appeal to all your senses and even cater to the vegan and gluten free among us.

Run Like a Girl – Hiking/Adventure

Location: Costa Rica

This seven-day adventure is less about luxury and more about spending every possible moment exploring the world through trail running, yoga, hiking, rappelling, and even tree climbing!

It also includes a community service project to ensure you leave fully well-rounded. Anticipate sleeping in nature, simple, delicious meals made by locals, and pushing yourself outside all comfort zones.

Read the full review>>

Alta Ski Camp – Skiing

Location: Alta, Utah

If snow skiing is your endorphin creator of choice the Alta Ski Camp has something for every ability. Small groups allow guided skiing at Alta and Snowbird on terrain matching your beginner or advanced level.

Not only will you be enjoying time in the powder, but working with experts to improve your overall performance and prevent injuries.

The camp includes alignment and functional physical evaluation by a biomechanics expert, video analysis, and evening indoor presentations that include two dryland training sessions.

[bctt tweet=”Feed your need for sweat and adventure with one of these fitness retreats! #travel #adventure” username=”runtothefinish”]

Karma Surf Retreat – Rock Climbing and Yoga

Location: Portugal

After dragging yourself away from the villa pool with views of the sea, you’ll find the views while rock climbing are just as stunning. 

Climbing sessions are led by experienced instructors who select the walls based on the skill level of the group and the weather. 

The Cascais coastline climb is right above the crashing shoreline waves, while the Sintra mountain range climb offers ocean views.

When you aren’t transfixed by the location, guides will be honing your skills, then leading you through a daily yoga practice to help relieve the tension created by this new exercise.

Each day your adventures will be fueled with an organic breakfast and hearty lunch. With additional free time you might choose to mountain bike or cook up a dinner with local ingredients in the villa kitchen.

Mountain Trek – Hiking and Health Seekers

Location: Nelson, Canada, and Baja California

If you want to get outside purely to relax and enjoy, then Mountain Trek is the perfect place to rejuvenate – “At Mountain Trek it’s easy to reverse the effects of aging and feel vitality again.”

A week of mountain air, fresh foods, enjoyable daily hikes, relaxed yoga, health lectures, spa time, healthy cuisine and more will do wonders for anyone’s spirit.

If the daily hike wasn’t enough to make you feel the burn, you can hop into any of the evening fitness classes from spinning to bootcamp!

Each meal is designed to support your active day and reset any junk food habits with wholesome ingredients, protein, and flavor.

Aro Hā Wellness Retreat – Yoga, Meditation

Location: Glenorchy, New Zealand

If luxury is more your style, then this multi-aware winning health retreat is what you need to try. Aro Ha, meaning “in the presence of divinity” in Maori, lives up to its name.

This intimate 20-room lodge overlooks the gorgeous Lake Wakatipu in New Zealand’s Southern Alps and offers holistic practices like vinyasa yoga and meditation to rejuvenate your mind and body.

The property itself is definitely the biggest draw since it’s self-sustainable and between colossal sapphire lakes and snowcapped peaks.

If mindfulness is what you’re aiming for, this award-winning retreat should be on the top of your list.

Cal-a-Vie – Hiking, Yoga, Pilates, and More

Location: Vista, California

If you want that luxury experience without flying out of the country, then Cal-a-Vie might be the one for you.

It’s an intimate, exclusive health retreat near San Diego, CA that offers 3, 4, or 7-night packages that are tailored to your needs.

This top-of-the-line retreat combines fitness, nutrition, relaxation, and even customized treatments to help you relax, rejuvenate, and also get aligned with your fitness goals.

Their fitness spa offers all the tools and expertise you’ll ever need! Plus, with stunning hiking trails, yoga classes, pilates training, personal fitness sessions, aerobics, boxing, and even aqua workouts, you’ll be spoiled for options here.

Mountain Running Academy – Running Technique

Location: Jackson Hole, WY

If you’re ready to take your trail running to a new level, try 12,000 feet. Led by Eric Orton, the running coach who gained fame in the Born to Run book, you’ll find yourself learning a ton about proper technique and just as importantly mindset.

While this camp is designed to help ultrarunners, as a non-ultra runner I was able to hang for the most part as you’ll see.

Trail running techniques to help you improve, discussions of mindset and talking with other amazing distance runners will light a fire in you to push your boundaries.

Plus you’ll be getting in a mega dose of red blood cells with that altitude training! Jackson Hole is gorgeous, so plan an extra day to spend some time enjoying this beautiful town.

Read the full review >>

Jeff Galloway’s Running Retreat – Running and Hiking

Locations: Lake Tahoe, CA.

Even if mornings aren’t typically your thing, you’d be remiss to overlook the 6 a.m. runs around Lake Tahoe offered at Jeff Galloway’s Lake Tahoe Running Retreat (famous for its Jeff Galloway run-walk training method).

You have the option of going for either the weekend retreat or week-long option for this active vacation idea. There’s just so much to do as well, from hiking, to personalized coaching, and even interesting seminars.

Rancho La Puerta Runner Retreat – Running

Location: Baja California

If you’ve read my review about Rancho La Puerta, you know how much I love this place (and everyone else who ever visits it!). They also also a Runner Retreat by their expert running concierge.

You’ll have access to fitness classes, delicious and nourishing meals, recovery time, and even restful spa treatments tailored to runners.

Vancouver Island Trail Running + Wellness Retreat – Running, Mindfulness

Location: Vancouver, Canada

If you’re looking for a women-only retreat to slow down and reconnect with your body, then this is a great active vacation option!

It’ll give you all the tools you need to run mindfully with proper running form while also teaching you how to feel more at peace with your mind and body.

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What’s Included?

While every retreat is different, most retreat prices include the majority of your activities and expenses during the stay, but it’s always good to check with your travel agent. Following is what most of these great luxury wellness vacations include:

• Hotel Accommodations (sometimes shared rooms, check for details)
• Healthy, fresh meals
• Daily workouts, yoga, surfing or other activities of the retreat
• Airport Transfer
• Guides or instructors
• Excursions or local tours

The downside to travel is once you’ve gotten accustomed to the thrill of running, hiking, eating, exploring new places…well home can seem a tad hum drum.

Don’t get me wrong, I am a homebody and LOVE to enjoy time here with David. I don’t need to go out during the week or feel the need to constantly talk to people. But traveling once a month seems good for my whole outlook, maybe it’s because I work from home…I need to be freed once a month to shake off the cobwebs!

Have you ever done a retreat of some kind?

Any exciting travel plans in your future??

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