When the days grow shorter, the sunlight fades by mid-afternoon and icy pavements replace warm tarmac, many athletes feel their motivation dip. Early-morning swims become chilly, windy rides feel less enticing, and the treadmill starts to look like a prison rather than a tool for fitness. But winter doesn’t have to be the enemy of progress. For many active adventurers, it’s the perfect time to escape the cold and take part in a winter training camp – combining sport, sunshine and a welcome dose of adventure.
Whether you’re a triathlete, a road cyclist chasing early-season form, a runner training for their first marathon, or simply someone who wants to stay active on holiday, winter sports camps can help you maintain and even build fitness during the colder months. Better still, they offer the opportunity to train in professional-level environments while exploring new corners of the world.
From warm-weather training escapes in the Canary Islands to winter cycling camps in Spain, triathlon hubs in Thailand, and holistic fitness retreats in Portugal, there are options for every ability, budget and ambition. This guide explores some of the best places to take a winter training holiday, how to choose the right type of sports camp for your goals, and why specialised sports travel insurance should be at the top of your checklist.
Why consider a winter training camp?
A fitness-focused winter holiday is more than just a chance to escape the cold, grey weather. It’s an opportunity to be coached by experts, train alongside like-minded individuals and return home fitter, faster and more motivated than ever.
Key benefits
Consistency
Winter training camps allow you to escape snow, storms and freezing temperatures – meaning fewer interruptions and a more consistent training block.
Expert support
Most camps include professional coaching, structured sessions and technique analysis. Whether you need help descending on the bike, improving running form or refining your swim technique, expert feedback accelerates progress.
Warm weather motivation
Sunshine increases dopamine and motivation, often helping athletes train harder and smarter. Warm weather also makes it easier to complete quality sessions outdoors, which are more engaging than indoor alternatives.
Goal-setting reset
Winter training camps can help reset your focus. Whether you’re building toward a summer race season or reconnecting with your fitness goals, structured coaching provides clarity and accountability.
Time to train properly
Life’s distractions melt away on a training holiday. With nutrition provided, sessions planned and logistics handled, athletes can simply train, recover and recharge.
It’s no surprise many professional athletes spend winter abroad for these reasons. However, you no longer have to be elite to benefit. With so many destinations now catering to amateur athletes too, you can train like a pro while soaking up some winter sun.
Types of winter sports camps
Winter fitness holidays are becoming increasingly popular, and with so many options available, it’s worth understanding the different types before choosing one.
Winter cycling training camps
Perfect for: Road cyclists, club riders and those building early-season form.
These camps revolve around endurance rides, climbing, group riding skills and technical coaching. The terrain often includes long mountain ascents, ideal for improving fitness and developing confidence.
Popular destinations include:
- Mallorca
- Tenerife
- Gran Canaria
- Girona
- Algarve
Most camps provide:
- Support vehicles
- Mechanical assistance
- Route guidance
- On-bike nutrition
This allows cyclists to maximise mileage without worrying about logistics, ideal for building early-season base fitness.
Triathlon training camps
Perfect for: All levels – from Ironman veterans to beginners.
Triathlon camps combine swimming, cycling and running sessions in warm climates. Many host first-class training facilities, including:
- Heated outdoor pools
- Open-water swim access
- Structured bike sessions
- Track and trail running
- Technique coaching & video analysis
These camps are commonly found in:
- Lanzarote
- Fuerteventura
- Thailand
- Portugal
- Cyprus
Participants benefit from expert guidance, brick sessions and race-specific insights. These camps are ideal for athletes preparing for early-season races or those wanting a strong fitness base before building intensity.
Fitness training holiday camps
Perfect for: Anyone wanting to improve general fitness.
These camps aren’t sport-specific – they blend functional fitness, HIIT, pilates, yoga and strength conditioning. They often feel more like active holidays and are popular among solo travellers and groups.
Top destinations include:
- Bali
- Thailand
- Portugal
- Canary Islands
They usually offer varied training alongside social activities – think sunrise yoga, beach workouts and group excursions.
Sports training holiday camps
Perfect for: Individuals training for performance in a specific sport.
These camps offer dedicated instruction in:
- Swimming
- Running
- Tennis
- Boxing
- Cross-training
Expect structured programmes, expert performance analysis, recovery protocols and personalised training plans.
Top destinations for winter training camps
Below are some of the best places across the world for a winter sports holiday.
Canary Islands – The European favourite
Best for: Triathlon, cycling, swimming, running
Why go: Stable weather + quality training conditions
The Canary Islands, especially Lanzarote, Tenerife and Gran Canaria, are the most popular European winter training destination. Thanks to year-round sunshine, smooth roads and varied terrain, they provide ideal conditions for multi-discipline camps.
Highlights:
- Challenging cycling routes
- Reliable open-water swimming
- Purpose-built sports resorts
- Volcanic landscapes for trail running
Major triathlon bases like Club La Santa and Playitas attract athletes worldwide.
Mallorca – Cyclist’s paradise
Best for: Cycling
Why go: Iconic climbs, smooth roads + great cycling culture
Mallorca transforms into a cyclist’s playground during winter. Professional teams swarm the island for early-season training, thanks to its perfect climbing routes, like Puig Major, and scenic coastal roads. Bike hire is widely available, and guided camps are common.
Algarve, Portugal
Best for: Runners, cyclists, triathletes
Why go: Quiet roads + mild coastal climate
With temperatures averaging 15–20°C in winter, the Algarve is excellent for off-season training. Its mix of coastal trails, mountain roads and accessible swimming pools make it a versatile choice for multisport athletes.
Girona & Catalonia, Spain
Best for: Cyclists
Why go: World-class cycling + vibrant culture
Once a well-kept secret, Girona has become a global cycling hub, home to many pros. With endless routes, great coffee culture and a friendly sports community, it’s an inspiring place to train and explore.
Cyprus
Best for: Triathletes
Why go: Warm seas + reliable sunshine
With stunning scenery, open-water swimming and varied terrain, Cyprus is a strong choice for winter training camps. The island offers a mix of coastal flats and mountain climbs, ideal for triathlon preparation.
Thailand
Best for: Fitness & triathlon camps
Why go: Tropical climate + expert centres
Thailand’s camps, particularly around Phuket and Chiang Mai, range from high-performance triathlon centres to holistic fitness retreats. Many combine outdoor training with yoga, strength work and martial-arts-inspired conditioning.
California & Arizona, USA
Best for: Runners, cyclists, triathletes
Why go: Reliable high-desert weather
The American southwest offers sunshine, mountainous training routes and a growing number of coaching camps. Tucson is a particularly popular winter base thanks to its famous climbs and dry conditions.
South Africa
Best for: Triathlon & cycling
Why go: Warm climate + stunning routes
The coastal city of Cape Town and the winelands of Stellenbosch provide world-class training opportunities. Expect open-water swimming, scenic rides and access to altitude trails.
Different fitness holidays in winter – which one suits you?
Type | Ideal For | Typical Focus |
Winter cycling training camp | Road cyclists | Endurance, hills, group riding |
Triathlon training camps | Triathletes | Swim–bike–run + technique |
Fitness training holiday camps | All levels | Strength + general fitness |
Running camps | Runners | Track + trail work |
Swimming camps | Swimmers | Stroke technique + volume |
Adventure mixed camps | Active holidaymakers | Mixed activities |
Sports training holiday camps | Performance athletes | Sport-specific coaching |
Think first about your goals – and choose the camp that aligns.
How to choose the right training camp
Your sport & goals
Ask yourself:
- Are you training for a triathlon?
- A spring marathon?
- A cycling sportive?
- A personal fitness milestone?
The clearer your goals, the easier it is to choose a suitable programme.
- Coaching level
Training camps often offer different tiers:
- Beginner
- Intermediate
- Elite
Selecting the right level ensures the sessions are challenging yet manageable.
- Accommodation & facilities
Look for:
- Pools or open-water access
- Running tracks or trails
- Safe cycling routes
- On-site gyms
- Recovery facilities (sauna, physio, massage)
Many sports-specific hotels offer all this under one roof.
- Group size & support
Smaller groups often mean more personalised coaching. Cycling camps may also include:
- Support vehicles
- Mechanic
- Nutrition on the road
These services make long rides safer and more enjoyable.
- Cost
Prices vary depending on:
- Destination
- Camp duration
- Coaching level
- Accommodation
From budget training hostels to luxury performance resorts—there’s something for everyone.
What to pack for a winter training camp
Essentials:
- Sports travel insurance and travel documents
- Sports kit – Cycling / tri kit, running shows, swim gear, equipment etc.
- Lightweight outer layers
- Nutrition products
- Sunscreen
It’s also worth bringing:
- Reusable water bottles
- Recovery tools (massage gun, rollers)
- Heart-rate monitor or GPS watch
Check what equipment is included before travelling, many camps offer bike hire or strength-training facilities.
Final thoughts
Winter doesn’t have to be a season of training struggles, icy pavements and indoor turbo sessions. A winter training camp offers the chance to escape to sunnier climates, train with purpose and meet like-minded people, all while exploring a new destination.
Whether you choose a cycling camp in Mallorca, a triathlon base in Lanzarote or a fitness retreat in Thailand, focusing on structured training during winter can transform your performance when racing season arrives. You’ll return fitter, rejuvenated and more inspired ready to take on the year ahead.
So, where should you train in warm weather this winter? The world is your playground – sunny, energising and filled with opportunity.
Don’t forget Sports Travel Insurance
Before heading abroad for a winter training holiday, it’s essential to secure specialised sports travel insurance. Standard insurance may not cover structured training sessions, high-endurance sports or competitive events.
Our sports travel insurance covers:
- Emergency medical expenses
- Personal accident
- Trip cancellation/curtailment
- Equipment loss or damage
- And much more…
Take a look today and tailor your policy to suit your winter sports camp!
This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation.