Being on holiday doesn’t always mean lying on the beach 24/7. Relaxing can be much more than simply turning from one side to the other in order to fly home with an even tan. We cannot always escape our daily stress when doing nothing — especially when crazy rotisserie tanning (like this 'lil guy pictured right) — since there is far too much time to worry and think about problems we struggle with. Relaxing is much easier and effective when creating some distance for our minds. The solution: active holidays with the underlying concept of ‘working out’ the mind, body and soul. Strengthen your body, free your mind and pamper your soul. We have paired five wonderful spots with activities to make the best out of your next 'active' holiday.

1. Hiking & Mountain Biking in Austria

You don’t need a 12 hour flight to escape your daily life to have an extraordinary holiday. Why not enjoy some action-loaded days in the Austrian Alps? You can even make this jaunt for a long weekend. Surrounding yourself with mountains and alpine nature will for sure make you feel calm and grounded. There are endless possibilities in the mountains: guided hikes, pushing your limits at downhill biking, sleeping under a clear sky full of stars or simply hop onto your yoga mat and breathe in that fresh mountain air. Hummmm.

2. Surfing in Biarritz

Who hasn't wanted to give surfing a good 'ole college try? If you're one of these free spirit dare devils, then jump right on the plane for for a quick trip to Biarritz, the prime spot for surfing in Europe. This surf town combines the Cote d’Azure vibes with the laid-back surfer lifestyle. Book yourself a surf camp, as there is no better way to turn your head off than when learning something new. And after a lot of salt water in your system (surf lessons can be rough in the beginning!) pamper yourself with a glass of French rosé at night and enjoy the calming ocean view.

3. Fitness Studio Sightseeing (and doing!) in New York

Everything is possible in the Big Apple, as here’s no place with more innovation than New York. If you’ve been to the city already, then explore the it in a new way. Why not make it a trip full of new workouts and experiences? NYC is the Mecca of indoor cycling and boutique fitness studios after all. Have you ever tried a group treadmill workout with music? Then we suggest you try Mile High Running Club! Try energising boxing workouts in several super cool studios like Gotham and grab a cold kombucha at Whole Foods around the (almost every) corner. After all these work outs, there’s less ‘feeling guilty’ when indulging in yummy American treats like their specialties: bagels, burgers and donuts.

4. Sailing & Yoga in Formentera

When the parties and beaches of Ibiza get far too crowded there’s a hidden gem: Formentera. Just south of the Balearic Islands you can find this tiny paradise with white sandy beaches and turquoise water - just like you’d expect from an isle in Southeast Asia. Its bohemian location is the perfect spot for calming morning yoga on the beach and sailing during the day. Or better yet, why not do yoga on the boat? Watch those beautiful sunsets with wind in your hair. Lean back and be thankful. Mantra suggestion: I deserve this!

5. Running & HIIT in Iceland

Find yourself in the beautiful landscapes of Iceland between marvelous mountains, wonderful lakes and never-ending beaches. What else do you need, when you have the best nature can offer? Try some HIIT training with a view and explore the country via running shoes. There’s nothing like getting a sweat with a nice chill in the air. Be prepared with layers, it’s Iceland for goodness sake! We must say, though, there’s probably nothing more grounding than being one with yourself, mid-sweat in such stunning surroundings. And in our fast and stressful lives we need to reboot and come back to true ourselves. Iceland is the perfect place to do so!

Interview by Sophie Radtke

Top 5 'Active' Travel Destinations for Athletes