With Euro 2012, the Olympic Games, Wimbledon and more sporting occasions just round the corner, the coming months have rightly been branded the ‘summer of sport.’ But if you are already sick of the deluge of Olympic-inspired television or the idea of sitting in front of the football fills you with dread then this could be the perfect time to plan an escape. Holidaying on home soil doesn’t have to mean being swept up in Olympic fever and there are plenty of wilderness retreats or days out away from it all which will help you forget all about the sporting action. Here are five simple ways to enjoy a sport-free day out this summer:
Vineyard visit
Forget winner’s Champagne, you’ll be toasting your own success and supping on locally produced fresh bubbly with a visit to one of Britain’s emerging vineyards. England now boasts award-winning wine producers which can finally begin to stand side-by-side with some of the world’s more renowned wine-making regions. A tour of a vineyard followed by expert-led tasting sessions coupled with a perfectly matched lunch or sumptuous picnic is the perfect way to soak up the beauty of the English countryside, learn a thing or two about wine and indulge in some fine food and drink while being as far removed from the sporting action as you can imagine.
Tipi retreat
Wilderness camping without the distraction of laptops, work, televisions and mobile phones is the perfect way to truly escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life – and that includes the sport. Try treating yourselves to a rustic retreat in a tipi, complete with camp fire, holistic therapy treatments and cooking under the moonlight for a truly reinvigorating getaway.
Lake District boat cruise
It doesn’t get much more remote than floating out onto some of Britain’s biggest lakes, surrounded by mountains and without a sporting stadium in sight. The Lake District plays host to its own array of sporting pursuits and outdoor adventures but you can stay free of Olympic fever by enjoying a relaxing boat trip on its remote waters.
Hiking in Snowdonia
Snowdonia National Park is one of Britain’s real gold medal attractions and is the perfect place to lose yourself in nature and revel in the dramatic beauty of this varied landscape. From challenging high peaks to rolling fields and onto stunning coastline, Snowdonia has so much to explore it makes it the perfect destination for a rural escape with walking routes to suit all abilities.
Spa day
While the Olympians may be enduring ice baths and pummelling sports massages, you can enjoy the lighter touch of a masseuse with a luxurious spa day. They make perfect gift ideas for those in need of some relaxation and are perfect for friends to escape together free from the distractions of televisions and sports-obsessed media coverage. A range of relaxing treatments will soon have you drifting away to your own, sports-free world.
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