3 Summer Vacation Ideas for Active Seniors

By K.C. Dermody –

Active, adventure travel is growing increasingly popular. In fact, it’s accelerated at a 65 percent yearly rate since 2009, according to the Adventure Tourism Market Study released last fall. But just because you’re over 50, 60, or even 70, doesn’t mean you can’t jump on the bandwagon. If you’re the type of traveler who doesn’t relish lounging around at poolside with a drink in your hand day after day, but aren’t up for an extreme challenge like conquering Mount Everest, these fabulous and unique vacations may be right up your alley.

Cycling France’s Wine Country

For those who dream of exploring the beautiful wine country of France, Backroads offers a gentle cycling excursion through the Chablis district’s picturesque forests and farmland filled with tranquil lakes and charming old-world villages, ancient manors, and abbeys. Savoring fabulous cuisine and the local wines is also included on the itinerary.

This six-day tour offers the chance to learn about centuries-old winemaking traditions at the internationally renowned Clos de Vougeot, a restored medieval chateau and vineyard, as well as many of the region’s local wines, with plenty of tastings along the way. A bike and accessories, like water bottles and a lock are included. You can bring your own helmet, or use one of Backroads’ high-quality helmets.

Summer weather in the region generally means lots of sun and warm temperatures, so pack accordingly and be sure to bring sun protection, including sunglasses as well as replacement lenses for your Oakley’s or Ray-Ban’s, just in case.

A Whale Watching and Sea Turtle Adventure in Mexico

This vacation can be just as active as you want it to be. You’ll have the opportunity for close up encounters with amazing creatures like gray whales and sea turtles. If you’d like to get into the water, you can snorkel among thousands of beautiful fish, or even paddle around in a kayak searching for dolphins.

Journey Mexico offers a trip that explores the Pacific Ocean as well as the Sea of Cortez coastlines in Baja California, Mexico. You’ll have plenty of time to relax and refresh in a historic bed-and-breakfast near the La Paz waterfront too.

You’ll need plenty of sun protection here, as well as a couple of bathing suits, as you’ll probably be spending lots of time in and around the water.

Exploring Washington State’s San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands, just off the northern coast of Washington State, offer a variety of active adventures for all ages. On the largest of the islands, San Juan, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the dazzling surrounding waters via kayak or by joining a whale watch tour. Just a sample of the wildlife here includes orca whales, harbor seals, sea lions, and otters, while bald eagles are frequently spotted perched in the trees or soaring through the skies above. On land, you can visit lavender farms, enjoy wine tasting at several vineyards, explore lighthouses, or rent a bike and cycle through the gentle, rolling hills.

San Juan Island is also known for its amazing cuisine found at a surprising number of farm-to-table restaurants. You’ll find plenty of eclectic boutiques, fantastic art galleries, and even a couple of museums too. The summer months here usually mean plenty of sunshine, but you will want to bring some rain gear just in case, after all, it is the Pacific Northwest and wet weather isn’t uncommon no matter what time of year.