Where to experience Winter Olympic sports on holiday

Fitness-focused holidays have surged in popularity over the past year, but rather than opting for another Pilates retreat, have you considered getting an endorphin boost in a colder climate?

With anticipation building ahead of the next Winter Olympic Games – set to take place in Italy across Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo from February 6-22 – it’s the perfect time to experience one of these amazing winter sports firsthand.

Whether you’re a devoted snow enthusiast, an adrenaline seeker, or simply eager to try something new, here are four destinations where you can dip your toe into a Winter Olympic sport while on holiday.

Go bob racing at La Plagne in France

If you adore a cold holiday and are looking for a unique activity to get your heart racing and adrenaline pumping, a bobsleigh bucket list experience at La Plagne Paradiski could be right up your street.

There are several bobsleigh and luge-style rides to choose from at La Plagne’s iconic Olympic bobsleigh track from Albertville ’92.

The Bob Raft (€57/£50 per person) is perfect for first timers who are looking for a self-guided communal thrill. This self-braking ride accommodates four people and reaches speeds of 80km/h at the height of the descent.

However, if you are keen to brave the 19 bends around the track at 90km/h solo, the Speed Luge is a fantastic option. For €137 (£120) per person, you can take in incredible views of the track while semi-recumbent on your back, feet-first.

Fancy recreating Disney’s feel-good comedy Cool Runnings? Grab two fearless friends and take on bob racing for €149 (£130) per person. Hear the ice hiss beneath you as you hurtle downhill at speeds of up to 120km/h.

There’s also a majestic cross-country ski network within La Plagne to explore, plus ice rinks at the Plagne Centre.

If you are keen to stay near all the action, four-star resort Résidence Odalys Prestige Front de Neige could be a good option for a romantic trip away for £442 per person (self-catering and includes lift pass) for eight days this April. Prices are based on a studio apartment for two adults.

Skate under the Northern Lights in Finland

Whether you are an experienced skater or are a nervous newbie, this forest ice skating tour in Rovaniemi, Finland, is a once in a lifetime experience that all the family will enjoy.

From £138 per person, this tour offers the unique opportunity to skate along picturesque frozen trails in a small intimate group of nine or less people.

If you pick a clear night you might be lucky enough to skate under the Northern Lights and be able to admire the vibrant green, pink, red and blue ribbons of light dancing across the sky.

There’s also an opportunity to warm up with a delicious drink and snack halfway through the three-hour tour, allowing you to relax and take in the tranquil surroundings.

Pick up and ice skating gear is all included, so all you need to bring is yourself and some warm clothes for this magical skating adventure.

Try out curling in Canada

Immerse yourself in Canadian winter culture with a beginner’s curling class in Montreal. Often regarded as the world capital of curling, Canada is the perfect place to learn the sport.

During this two and a half hour session, a professional curling coach will guide you through the basic rules and techniques, from stone delivery to sweeping for the first 30 minutes. Once you’ve built your confidence and mastered the basics, you’ll have the chance to put your new skills to the test in a friendly match.

Lessons start from £69 per person, and all equipment is provided – including sliders, brooms, grippers, and stabilisers – so all you need to bring is a classic Canadian can-do attitude.

Up to 10 people can join each session, so invite all your family and friends along to join in on all the curling fun.

Book a cross-country skiing lesson in Norway

Try Norway’s national sport, cross-country skiing, for the first time in a safe guided lesson in Tromsø. Ideal for complete beginners, this scenic three-hour tour introduces you to the fundamentals in a relaxed and supportive setting.

You’ll start by learning how to put on and remove your skis before practising basic techniques on flat terrain. As your confidence grows, you’ll progress to more advanced skills and take on gentle hills for an added challenge.

Glide through the central part of the island and pause along the way to enjoy a hot drink and a sweet local treat – traditional lefse – while soaking up Norway’s glorious winter scenery.

Prices start from £64 per person and include skis, poles, boots, an experienced guide, a hot drink, a snack, and a transfer if required.