If you’re an avid hiker who also likes sport and being entertained, it can be difficult to choose a holiday destination that fits the bill. Whether you want leisurely walks or challenging treks, we’ve got you covered with these iconic destinations that also provide the opportunity to enjoy sports and evening entertainment.
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
You can’t get much more iconic than Edinburgh as a destination, and there’s plenty to do around here for hikers. While you’re not going to get the rolling hills of the Highlands, there are plenty of green spaces and trails for walks directly out of the city. I often think it’s better to view the Scottish capital on foot as you get an entirely different perspective on its history. Plus, by basing yourself in the city, you get to enjoy many different sports and evening entertainment, you’re winning all around.
Hiking activities in Edinburgh
There are plenty of opportunities for hiking around Edinburgh. Here are some favourites:
- Arthur’s Seat: This ancient volcano in Holyrood Park is one of the most famous places near Edinburgh. There’s a moderate climb up which reveals a panoramic view over the city and towards to sea.
- The Water of Leith Walkway: This is a scenic 12-mile route that follows the river and passes through Dean Village and Stockbridge. It’s mostly flat and is a peaceful escape from the city.
- Pentland Hills: Just outside the city, the Pentland Hills have multiple trails that have great views over Edinburgh and its surrounding countryside. There are routes for all levels of skill, gentle ones for fashionable hikers and more challenging climbs for hardcore walkers.
- Calton Hill: This is a short but rewarding hike. It is home to the National Monument and Nelson’s Monument. Go at the right time and the summit will reward you with some of the best sunset views over the city.
And Edinburgh is also well located for hiking adventures in the likes of Loch Lomond and the Arrochar Alps.
Sports activities in Edinburgh
Depending on when you go, there are lots of sporting events here. Murrayfield Stadium hosts international rugby matches like the Six Nations. Football fans can head to Hibernia’s Easter Road or Tynecastle Park. If you prefer golf, though, you’ll fit right in. Scotland is the home of golf and Edinburgh has some excellent golf courses.
Evening entertainment in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is not short of evening entertainment. There is a vibrant nightlife with plenty of pubs, restaurants and live music venues. The Grassmarket and Cowgate are packed and George Street is more of an upscale experience. The Stand Comedy Club is also worth a visit. However, if you’ve had a long day hiking or exploring, you could always head back to your hotel room and try out an online casino UK gamblers rave about. Whether you’re into table games or prefer slot games like the popular Rainbow Riches slot, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
Banff, Canada
Banff is in the Rockies and a great place for outdoor lovers. The views are amazing with clear lakes and tall peaks and there are also lots of things to do while you’re there.
Hiking in Banff
Where to start? Banff has many trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. Here are some favourites:
- Johnston Canyon Trail: This is one of the most popular trails and is an easy-to-moderate hike through a canyon. You’ll see dramatic waterfalls and it’s possible to walk this all year round.
- Plain of Six Glaciers Trail: A harder hike through alpine meadows with amazing glacier views. Don’t miss the historic teahouse along the way.
- Tunnel Mountain Trail: A short 4.5 km trail with stunning views of the Bow Valley and Banff below.
- Sulphur Mountain: A moderate hike or an easy ride up the Banff Gondola and at the top you’ll find exhibits and scenic boardwalks.
Sports activities in Banff
Banff is a hub for sporting activities and what is available depends on the season. In the winter, there’s skiing and snowboarding galore, while in warmer weather, you can enjoy mountain biking, rock climbing, paddling and canoeing in the calm waters of Moraine Lake or the Bow River.
Evening entertainment in Banff
After a day outdoors, Banff has lots of relaxing activities to do in the evening. There are shops, art galleries and restaurants. The Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity hosts live music, theatre and film screening events.
Chamonix, France
Right in the middle of the French Alps lies Chamonix, a haven for hikers. This town is the gateway to Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe. Chamonix is a charming town that’s breathtakingly beautiful. There is lots to do here.
Hiking in Chamonix
Chamonix is well-known for its hiking trails and there’s something for all abilities here, but you’ll need to stay clear of the trails in winter when Chamonix turns into a ski destination. Some options to check out include:
- Lac Blanc: This is a bucket-list destination. When the weather allows, you’ll see a crystal-clear lake surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks. The trail is moderately challenging but has amazing views.
- The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB): This is one of the most famous long-distance hikes and it passes through France, Italy and Switzerland. The full trek takes around 10 days but you can explore shorter sections for day hikes. You do need to book mountain huts well in advance though if you intend to use them, but it’s worth it.
- Mont Blanc: Climbing the summit of Mont Blanc is not for the faint-hearted. This is a dangerous trek that requires serious preparation and usually a mountain guide. Many people do climb it each year, however.
Sports activities in Chamonix
Chamonix becomes a top Alpine ski resort in winter but year-round there are lots of other sporting activities to do, such as:
- Mountain biking
- Paragliding
- Climbing
- Mountaineering
Evening entertainment in Chamonix
Chamonix has plenty of top restaurants as well as bars and cosy pubs. If you’re staying outside of the town, like at a campsite, finding a taxi at night can be difficult and expensive. However, in the summer months, there are free buses between the local villages, which is great.
Conclusion
Adventurers who want to explore the outdoors but also have fun with sports and evening entertainment have lots of opportunities to explore. We’ve focused on three destinations: London, Banff and Chamonix, with each one offering its own unique charm and appeal.
There are plenty of other destinations we could have talked about however, such as Queenstown, New Zealand (Routeburn Track and Ben Lomond) and Cape Town, South Africa (Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and the Constantia Greenbelt). No matter your preference, there will be the perfect destination out there that combines hiking with sports and evening fun. These destinations prove that you can have it all when you’re on holiday and plan a trip that satisfies both the explorer and socialite within you.
