The Olympic Games are now 99 days away (not that we’re counting), so VisitEngland has suggested five activities for land and sea to get in the sportsman spirit.
Weymouth
The 2012 Olympic sailing events are taking place in Weymouth (pictured right). Visitors can take to the waves themselves with SailLaser, where classes range from beginners to race training. For more information, visit www.enjoyengland.com/idea/Activities/Sailing-in-Weymouth.htm.
Lee Valley White Water Centre
Newly built for the Olympics, the Lee Valley White Water Centre on the edge of the 1,000-acre River Lee Country Park in Hertfordshire will host the canoe slalom competition. The two new courses will be open to the public after the games, so visitors can try Olympic-standard wild rapids, drops, holes, eddies and boils. (Purists, of course, can stick to canoeing, but adrenalin junkies might prefer the white water rafting option.) To register now for fall 2012 sessions visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk.
Rudyard Lake
Those not racing for gold can swap Eton Dorney’s training facilities in Windsor for a leisurely row on Rudyard Lake in the Staffordshire Moorlands. The two and a half mile piece of water is now the perfect spot for a romantic rowboat rendezvous. For more information, visit www.enjoyengland.com/idea/Activities/Rowing-on-Rudyard-Lake.htm.
Dartmoor
Dartmoor has its own equine breed, the Dartmoor pony. Equestrian Escapes offers vacations to the area, exploring the hills and moorland, lessons and hacks included. For more information, visit www.equestrian-escapes.com.
Isle of Wight
There are nearly 30 miles of “Heritage Coast” on the island that are ideal for cycling. Wight Wanders has several self-guided cycling tours that include bike hire, three nights’ accommodation and luggage transfer. For more information, visit www.wight-walks.co.uk.