Top Holiday Ideas for Retired Friends
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Now that you’re retired, there’s no more waiting for your annual vacation leave to explore the world with friends. You can leave anytime you wish, with no need to worry about work responsibilities at the end of your trip. But the question is – where should you go? Check out these top holiday ideas for retired friends. From a walking holiday in Spain to golfing in Scotland and glamping in Devon, these holiday experiences will make your retirement truly rewarding.
Walking Holiday in Spain
For many, holidays in Spain often evoke images of the sun, sand and sea. But this fascinating country is also a treasure trove of natural beauty and, as such, lends itself as an ideal destination for trekking and walking adventures. Diverse scenery awaits as you explore Spain on foot, on both the mainland and the scenic coastal walks of the Canary and Balearic Islands.
Mainland Spain features limestone peaks and deep valleys sitting by the northern ranges. In fact, its mountain ranges are the second highest in Europe, next to Switzerland. The stunning Pyrenees, which forms a natural border between France, Andorra, and Spain, are intimate and equally dramatic.
Picos de Europa, a mountain range extending about 20 km, remains Spain’s best-kept secret. After a busy day on foot, you’ll be rewarded with a gastronomic treat with a delectable local wine. Meanwhile, the pleasant weather climate and dramatic landscapes of the Canary Islands make it an attractive destination for a coastal walk.
Golf Holiday in Scotland
The perfect holiday for friends fond of golf would be to go on a golfing adventure in Scotland. Home to some of the world’s best golf courses, Scotland is the ultimate golf holiday destination. And in case you didn’t know, Scotland is home to the oldest golf course in the world and where the first game was played during the 15th Century.
Generally, all golf courses in Scotland are open from April until October or November, with a few remaining open the entire year. When booking a golf holiday in Scotland, you have the option to create your own bespoke golf package. Choose something that already includes your accommodation with a tour to Scotland’s most famous attractions.
What’s great about playing golf in Scotland is that, depending on the conditions of the turf and wind, the courses offer a different experience every day. This is especially true if you’re playing at the incredible Old Course at St. Andrews. One day, you’ll wonder why a bunker was in its location when you had never been within a hundred yards. And on the next day, you’ll find your ball right in the middle!
Art Holiday in the Lake District
For groups of friends who love everything related to art, one of the best holiday activities to do in your retirement years is to go for an art holiday in the Lake District. Treat yourself to an exciting artistic adventure, with painting courses available for experienced and budding artists.
The courses will take place across three seasons of the year, giving you the freedom to engage with and paint the amazing landscapes for which the Lake District is famous. Each day, you will be travelling to different locations and experience one-on-one lessons, demonstrations, and daily critique sessions. The art holiday in the Lake District is suitable for all kinds of artists, including novices who have never lifted a paintbrush throughout their life. There are also art lessons for advanced and well-experienced artists. Given the wide variety of art programmes on offer, there will always be something suitable for everyone.
If some of your friends won’t be interested in taking up painting lessons, don’t worry – there are other non-painting activities they can do. This is an incredibly beautiful place where they can enjoy sightseeing, hiking, cycling, or just relaxing.
Glamping Holiday in Devon
For friends looking for an unusual holiday experience in the woods and wanting to enjoy a bit of luxury and relaxation, consider glamping in luxury pods in Devon. Glamping is simply an improved and luxurious version of camping. If you and your friends are adventurous and willing to try something new during your retirement years, this is the perfect time to experience glamping.
You will find plenty of glamping sites in Devon. This beautiful English county in Southwest England is home to sandy beaches, impressive cliffs, and beautiful parks. At Woodovis Park, you can enjoy all the fun of camping without the hassles that come with it. You can choose from any of the cute camping pods and super pods. These glamping pods come equipped with everything you need for a relaxing stay. There’s no need to set up a tent when you arrive – you just move in straight away!
When you’re not relaxing in your pod, explore the outdoors, chill out at the barbecue area with fire pit, and enjoy fun bonding moments with friends while waiting for your grilled meat. In the morning, head to the beautiful garden where you can enjoy your morning coffee with the beautiful views of the surroundings.
Cottage Holiday in the Cotswolds
Sleepy villages home to honey-hued stone houses nestled amidst scenic rolling hills, a holiday in the Cotswolds would be the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of city life. So, if you fancy escaping to some relaxing place as you bask in your retirement, the Cotswolds is the best place to take your friends.
You will have plenty of options for your cottage holiday in the Cotswolds. If you’re looking to stay at a 300-year-old chocolate-box cottage, the Inglenook Cottage at Broad Campden would be perfect. Located just one mile from the town of Chipping Camden and featuring local countryside walks straight from the property, this cottage is a real gem.
The Old Smithy cottage in Kingham is a 16th century converted barn, another excellent choice for your cottage holiday in the Cotswolds. Kingham, a village known for its excellent pubs, is also home to two Michelin-starred restaurants, The Plough and Wild Rabbit.
Photo by Maddi Bazzocco on Unsplash