A recent survey by BetterDoctor had Chicago low on its list of most physically active cities in America. Not surprisingly, cities in California and Colorado have us beat—sub-zero winter temps aren’t exactly conducive to getting out and exercising.
Instead of whining about our temperamental weather, kick it up a notch with a vacation that emphasizes physical activity. Here are a few that combine fitness and pleasure.
Hiking & Biking
Sedona, Ariz., located halfway between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon, is best known for its enchanting views of the surrounding red rock mountain formations. Enchantment Resort has some of the best views in town, along with a vast range of activities. It’s the closest you can come to those soaring red rocks without actually camping! Boynton Canyon towers over the luxurious Native American-themed adobe suites featuring kiva fireplaces and oversized soaking tubs. You’ll likely find yourself dumbstruck by the stunning beauty here. Just take it in stride, and sign up for one of the complimentary guided hikes along the surrounding trails.
Complimentary mountain bikes allow you to venture out on roads that meander through the rugged landscape, or try your hand at mountain biking through the surrounding desert. Several pools, six tennis courts, access to a nearby golf course and a world-class spa with daily fitness classes provide an endless choice of activities. Do as much or as little as you want. If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll appreciate the resort’s Camp Coyote drop-off children’s program, where kids have their own adventures, including going on nature walks and creating Native American-themed crafts.
Sweet Tees
Love to golf? Looking for links beyond Florida? Cross the state line into Georgia, and get ready for some unspoiled beaches and southern greens, along with a hefty dose of southern hospitality.
Located off the Atlantic coast, four of Georgia’s barrier islands, known as the Golden Isles, are about 75 miles from both Savannah, Ga., and Jacksonville, Fla. You’ll feel like you’re in the deep south here, a world away from the excitement of South Florida. The golfing’s superb on Golden Isles’ nine public courses and the beaches are pristine and uncrowded. Stay at the regal King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort on St. Simons Island, and do day excursions to the other three nearby islands, including Sea Island, which hosts the McGladrey Classic PGA tournament each November.
The King and Prince Golf Course stands on acres of coastal Georgia’s most beautiful and historic land. The course was once home to the Hampton Plantation, an 18th century antebellum plantation producing cotton, indigo and rice. Farming’s been replaced by golfing, with PGA-certified instructors available for private lessons.
Surf’s Up!
If lounging on the beach all day isn’t your thing, why not catch a wave in Southern California? Coronado, a small island city just off of San Diego’s coast, is considered a prime surfing spot. Book a room at the island’s beachfront grande dame, the Hotel del Coronado, referred to by locals as The Del. Since 1888, this National Historic Landmark has been a playground for celebrities and presidents, all of whom stayed here, except for President Obama. It’s where Charlie Chaplin screened his movies, Marilyn Monroe filmed “Some Like It Hot” and Lucy and Desi Arnaz played tennis.
The Del is known for its over-the-top brunch and lavish lobby, but it’s also home to the appropriately named Gnarly Neal’s Ocean Instruction. “Hang ten” with Coronado Island’s surf guru Gnarly Neal during private lessons, which are offered year-round. Or, sign up your kids (ages 8-16) for summer surf camp. You could also enroll the whole family in a group lesson, where you’ll learn the basics of surfing, safety in the water and, ultimately, how to choose great waves.
Tennis Anyone?
Want to take your game to the next level? The ball’s in your court. Follow through with your fitness goals by staying at a tennis resort like Southern California’s Rancho Valencia, where tennis is more than a pastime—it’s their passion. The resort is ranked the No. 1 tennis resort by Tennis Magazine, and offers 18 championship courts in a magnificent setting. The resort’s tennis pros are eager to help guests reach their full potential through tennis clinics and private lessons.
Tennis is also in full swing at the Four Seasons Nevis, which has one of the Caribbean’s best tennis facilities and one of the biggest tennis programs in the Four Seasons chain. Enjoy six hard courts, four red-clay courts and a variety of programs including clinics, game matching, lessons and social mixers. The resort follows through with a few other big draws: golf, a blissful beach and a one-of-a-kind scuba diving experience. Certified divers can take advantage of the resort’s Dive & Dine package, where a Four Seasons chef and local dive master take you on a two-tank dive to catch a lobster in the traditional way, with a handmade lasso! Return to shore and enjoy a cocktail while the chef whips up your lobster feast. Ocean to table cuisine at its finest.
Saddle up!
Horseback ride, fish, bike, hike, and embrace your inner cowgirl at a dude ranch. Fresh air, breathtaking scenery and a wide array of activities will have you loving every second of the great outdoors. Consider Lost Creek Ranch located in Jackson Hole, Wyo., at the base of the Grand Tetons, just outside of Yellowstone National Park. For guaranteed sunshine, consider an Arizona classic like Tucson’s Tanque Verde.
The Dude Ranchers Association, which represents more than 100 of the best dude ranches in the United States and Canada, will steer you in the right direction. Its website allows you to search ranches by size, location and activities.
