Sports tourism: where to stay so that training becomes part of your vacation
19 August 2025

Sports tourism: where to stay so that training becomes part of your vacation

~ 5 min read

Today, more and more people are choosing an active lifestyle and sports. Even during a vacation or business trip, fans of physical activity try not to forget about training in order to keep fit, improve their health and have fun. After all, sports in travel not only helps to stay awake and energetic, but also makes your vacation more intense.

Rest on the move: active ideas for your trip

There are many ways to stay active during your vacation: from choosing a hotel with a modern fitness room to participating in sports tours and active excursions. We will tell you where in Russia you can practice sports tourism, as well as suggest good hotels for such a case - the Accor network has many offers for athletes.

Fitness in hotels: comfort and convenience for active travelers

Modern hotels (especially chain hotels) have a wide range of fitness services. These are not only gyms, many hotels equip the territory with swimming pools, studios for group yoga, Pilates, stretching or aerobics classes. In some hotels, you can order a personal trainer or undergo special wellness programs.

For example, the Accor hotel chain offers its guests modern fitness centers with the latest equipment, spacious halls for group classes, as well as spa complexes for post-workout recovery. You can swim in the pool and then relax in the hammam. The areas around the hotels are perfect for jogging and walking.

Advantages of staying in a hotel with fitness facilities:

  • the opportunity to exercise at any convenient time;
  • modern equipment and comfortable atmosphere;
  • personal trainers and group classes;
  • athletic fitness support in isolation from the usual living conditions;
  • a pleasant recovery after an active day.

In such hotels, you can not only keep fit while traveling, but also try new types of fitness under the guidance of professional trainers. It is also quite possible to make new acquaintances in group classes.

Фитнес в отелях
Фитнес в отелях
Фитнес в отелях

Developed by Freepik

Sports tourism: a combination of recreation and physical activity

Sport tourism is a travel format where tourists combine visiting new places with participating in sports events or active entertainment. This direction is suitable for both fans of extreme sports and those who prefer leisurely walks in nature.

Types of sports tourism:

  • skiing;
  • cycling;
  • hiking;
  • water sports;
  • running marathons or triathlons.

By choosing active tourism, you can not only enjoy the nature and culture of the region, but also train under the guidance of professionals or independently. This is a great way to broaden your horizons, improve your health, make new acquaintances and enjoy the atmosphere of travel.

Choosing a place of residence for sports tourism is very important. The hotel should be comfortable for training and have all the necessary conditions for outdoor activities.

Спортивный туризм

Developed by Freepik

Hiking

Hiking is one of the most popular types of sports tourism in Russia due to its accessibility and ease of organization. It includes such destinations as trekking (long hikes along natural routes), hiking (short walks through picturesque places) and backpacking (independent travel with minimal luggage, usually with a backpack).

Regions of Russia where hiking is widespread:

  • Caucasian Mineral Waters;
  • Karelia;
  • Altai Territory;
  • Ural;
  • Far East (for example, Kamchatka);
  • Primorsky Krai.

These places are famous for their picturesque landscapes, unique nature and opportunities for outdoor activities.

When choosing a hotel, consider the options that are located near the beginning of the routes. Also, always pay attention to safety recommendations, especially when staying in mountainous areas.

Пеший туризм

Developed by Freepik

Where to go: Primorsky Krai, Vladivostok

Vladivostok has many interesting hiking trails that allow you to explore the nature, history and architecture of the city. The options where you can go are: city park, Cape Tobizina, the Second River, Russian Island, Eagle's Nest Mountain.

You can also go for a walk in Victory Park and the surrounding area to get acquainted with the history of the city. This is a route with monuments, memorials and green areas.

Where to stay: Novotel Vladivostok

A modern 4-star hotel with stylish interiors and friendly service. It is located in the business part of the city, near the historical center, which allows you to quickly reach anywhere in Vladivostok.

The design was created by Brazilian bureau METRO in loft style using eco-friendly materials. The hotel offers rooms of various categories, equipped with a comfortable Live N Dream bed, a work area and a Smart TV.

Guests can enjoy breakfast at the Zuma Nova Restaurant, as well as take advantage of free parking, Wi-Fi, a fitness area and a business center.

Novotel Владивосток
Novotel Владивосток
Novotel Владивосток

Cycling tour

Cycling is attractive due to its environmental friendliness and the ability to cover long distances in a short time. Russia is rich in regions with excellent cycling routes:

  • Moscow and the Moscow region;
  • Saint Petersburg;
  • Krasnodar Region;
  • Altai Territory;
  • Baikal;
  • Krasnoyarsk Territory.

Cycling is a great way to combine relaxation with outdoor training and explore the region in depth. Cycling, unlike running, for example, does not overload the joints and works as a good cardio load.

Where to go: Krasnoyarsk Territory, Krasnoyarsk

Krasnoyarsk is a great city for cycling due to the variety of natural and urban routes. There are nature reserves, parks and rivers. The routes along the Yenisei and in Gorka Park are especially popular.

There are many equipped bike paths and bike parks in Krasnoyarsk. There are bike rental points, which makes it easier to organize outdoor activities.

Where to stay: ibis Krasnoyarsk Center

A modern hotel in the heart of the city on Karl Marx Street. The Yenisei embankment, theaters, museums, parks and cafes are within walking distance. The train station is only 3 km away, and the airport is 35 km away.

It offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning, Wi-Fi and a bathroom. The ibis Kitchen restaurant serves a buffet breakfast. Delicious drinks can be enjoyed at the 24-hour bar.

There is a laundry service and parking. Pets are allowed.

ibis Красноярск Центр
ibis Красноярск Центр
ibis Красноярск Центр

Water tourism

Water tourism includes activities such as kayaking, surfing, diving, rafting, sailing, or just swimming in open waters. This is a fascinating journey through rivers, lakes and seas, allowing you to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and outdoor activities on the water.

Regions of Russia where water tourism is developed:

  • Black Sea coast of the Caucasus (Gelendzhik, Sochi);
  • Baikal;
  • Karelia (Lake Ladoga);
  • Kamchatka (sea cruises).

Water tourism will give you a unique experience of being close to nature. This is a great way to combine outdoor activities, exploring natural sites and enjoying the tranquility of the waters.

Where to go: Krasnodar Territory, Sochi

Sochi is an ideal place for water tourism due to its mild climate and rich water resources. The city on the Black Sea coast is great for sailing, kayaking and diving. The warm weather allows you to practice water sports almost all year round.

There are rentals of diving and surfing equipment in Sochi. The beaches are equipped with everything necessary for recreation. Fans of extreme sports can try rafting on mountain rivers with overcoming obstacles. And those who want to contemplate the beauty of the water can go on a boat trip.

Conclusion

There are a lot of good places for active recreation in Russia, as well as hotels where you can comfortably stay during such a trip. When choosing a place to live, consider hotels with a fitness room or near natural sports tourism routes. This way you can easily combine rest and physical activity.

Accor hotels offer comfortable accommodation close to the best areas for training and walking. Thanks to the high-level service here, you can relax and recuperate after intense adventures.