Feature: Top extreme sports destinations – part 2
Imagine climbing 100s feet into the air with the sound of the jungle below, or soaring through the sky on a paraglider as rural wilds line the world below. Or how about kayaking through white water rapids or dirt biking through the muddy waters of an estuary? Extreme adventure sports have taken the world by storm, and allowed adrenaline junkies to fuel their hobbies with fun filled holidays combining adventure with awe inspiring landscapes. So following on from last week’s instalment of extreme sports destinations, we’ve compiled a second list of fast paced and not so fast paced adventure ideas to keep you happy!
Windsurfing
Sure you can learn how to windsurf in Britain and sure it’s a lot of fun. But with other, hotter, destinations out there, the fear of falling into cold waters is no longer necessary! While Tenerife and Lanzarote are great for this fun sport, the less touristy Canary Island of Fuerteventura is a better choice due to warm trade winds and the clear waters of the choppy Atlantic. The north of the island is where all the action is, and numerous schools offer courses for beginners and experts alike. Waveriders offer 10 hour beginner courses from £175, which includes equipment. Another good choice is the scenic Italian island Sardinia, which boasts stunning gorges and seascapes, ancient Roman ruins, and good waves in the north! Sporting Club Sardinia offers a range of beginner courses and private lessons.
Coasteering
Created around 25 years ago in south Wales, the relatively new sport, coasteering, combines swimming, rock climbing, diving, and exploration along wild rocky shorelines. Novice swimmers should not attempt it without supervision due to the unpredictability of the sea, but those who do will be rewarded with adrenaline fuelled adventures and natural wonders seen close up. South Wales is still one of the best places to coasteer to your heart’s content, and TYF Adventure have been helping adventurers do this for twenty years. Climb into a wetsuit, ride the waves, jump, dive, climb, turn rocks, and explore caves. You won’t be disappointed! You’ll also learn about the ecology of Pembrokeshire’s stunning coast, spot birds, plants, and rocks, and learn how they are changing due to climate change.
Paragliding
Soaring high over mountains, lakes, and forests, riding thermals and flying like a bird. Ever since the dawn of time, man has desired to fly, and now you can too with paragliding! Contrary to most people’s belief, this fun sport does not need a high level of fitness or skill. Sure it is very important to receive training, but you can easily learn at your own pace. While mountainous landscapes in the USA, Brazil, and Nepal are probably some of the best places to paraglide, beginners might want to learn closer to home. Fly Spain offer a range of course for all levels set in the picturesque village of Algodonales. Situated on the northern hillsides of the Sierra de la Lijar, the 16th century village is surrounded by orchards and olive groves. And the surroundings are beautiful - craggy arid mountains, dense woodland, and prolific bird life. You never know, you might fly alongside a golden eagle or vulture!
Rock climbing
Although physically and mentally demanding, rock climbing has to be one of the most satisfying extreme sports. As well as giving an unbelievable sense of euphoria and achievement when reaching the top, the views more than make up for a few aching limbs! And fortunately not many specialised skills are needed, except the will to climb. An excellent place to begin your new found hobby is the monumental limestone peaks surrounding Krabi. Set in the all year round sun of south Thailand, many holiday makers try out the sport in Railay and Ton Sai. Here sport climbing is practised with metal bolts placed in the rock, and harnesses and ropes used for safety. Three day courses range from around £100, which can easily be booked with the numerous tour agencies in town. And with views of the beautiful Andaman Sea and rolling tropical flatlands of South Thailand, you won’t be disappointed!
Trekking
Ok, so trekking might not be an ‘extreme’ sport to many people, but that all depends on where you do it. Nepal, one of the world’s premier trekking destinations, boasts such a range of geography, climate, and wildlife, that you really could describe it as extreme! From the sub-tropical flatlands of the Terai to the craggy and imposing Himalayas, this is a country of extremes. And because of its friendly and peaceful culture and abundance of natural wonder, trekking here couldn’t be easier. There is no need for camping as most popular routes have tea houses and lodges where you can socialise and drink beer after a hard days walk! While it is very easy to turn up and trek independently or with new friends, iTrekNepal offer numerous guided tours.
So there we are. Adrenaline pumping action all over the world! Next time you’re thinking of a holiday, think of mountainous landscapes and wild rivers over a pleasant beach for that true thrill-seeking adventure.
