In the rapidly evolving travel industry, there’s a growing demand for holidays that offer more than just relaxation. Today’s travellers seek active holidays—immersive experiences that blend leisure with physical activity, adventure, and wellness. Opening a resort that caters specifically to this niche market presents a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs and hospitality professionals. However, succeeding in this space requires a strategic approach that combines market understanding, facility development, and exceptional service.
Understanding the Market for Active Holidays
The active holiday market is driven by several key trends. First, there’s a global rise in health consciousness. More people are prioritizing their physical and mental well-being, and this extends to how they spend their vacations. Second, adventure tourism is on the rise, with travellers seeking unique, adrenaline-pumping experiences that go beyond the traditional sun-and-sand vacation. Lastly, there’s an increasing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable travel options, as more consumers seek to minimize their environmental impact.
These trends create a perfect storm for the development of resorts focused on active holidays. Such resorts offer guests a range of activities, from hiking and cycling to yoga retreats and water sports. The goal is to provide a well-rounded experience that energizes guests while allowing them to reconnect with nature and themselves.
Key Considerations for Opening an Active Holiday Resort
- Location is Crucial: The location of your resort will largely determine the type of activities you can offer. A mountain setting is ideal for hiking, skiing, and mountain biking, while a coastal location lends itself to water sports and beach fitness programs. The surrounding natural environment should be a central part of the resort’s appeal, offering guests easy access to outdoor activities.
- Diverse Activity Offerings: To attract a broad audience, it’s important to offer a variety of activities that cater to different skill levels and interests. This could include guided nature hikes, rock climbing, scuba diving, fitness classes, and wellness workshops. The key is to strike a balance between high-energy activities and more relaxed, restorative options.
- Wellness and Recovery: Active holidays are as much about relaxation as they are about exertion. Offering wellness facilities such as spas, yoga studios, and meditation spaces will appeal to guests looking to balance physical activity with relaxation. Incorporating nutrition-focused dining options, perhaps with locally sourced ingredients, can also enhance the overall experience.
- Sustainability Practices: Eco-conscious travellers are increasingly scrutinizing the environmental impact of their holidays. Your resort should incorporate sustainable practices such as reducing waste, using renewable energy, and offering eco-friendly accommodations. This not only attracts a conscientious clientele but also positions your resort as a leader in responsible tourism.
- Partnerships and Expertise: Collaborating with local experts, such as adventure guides, fitness trainers, and wellness practitioners, can elevate the quality of your offerings. These partnerships can help provide authentic experiences that are deeply connected to the local culture and environment.
Case Study: Manor & Ashbury Resorts
One exemplary model in this space is Manor & Ashbury Resorts. Renowned for its extensive range of sports and activity offerings, Manor & Ashbury has successfully tapped into the active holiday market by providing guests with an array of options, from golf and tennis to arts and crafts. The resort’s commitment to variety, quality, and guest satisfaction serves as an inspiration for any entrepreneur looking to enter this market.
Conclusion
Opening a resort that caters to active holidays is an exciting venture with significant potential. By carefully selecting a location, curating a diverse activity portfolio, incorporating wellness and sustainability, and executing targeted marketing, your resort can attract a dedicated and growing audience. As the demand for active holidays continues to rise, those who seize this opportunity now will be well-positioned to lead the market in the years to come.
