With the 2016 Summer Games taking place in Rio de Janeiro this August 5 through 21, the world will be watching as athletes from around the globe attempt to make history in swimming, gymnastics and 26 other sports.
If you can’t make it down to Rio this summer, there are still ways you can live out your Olympic fantasies at some of our favorite resorts across the country.
EQUESTRIAN
Salamander Resort & Spa
Head to the Four-Star Salamander Resort & Spa in historic Middleburg, Virginia, where lavish accommodations and horse country gallop in perfect harmony. The resort’s full-service Equestrian Center allows for casual riding on scenic trials, riding lessons, polo instruction or the unique EquiSpective, a self-discovery program to help two-legged guests gain leadership skills and communicate with their four-legged friends.
TENNIS
The Sea Pines Resort
While exclusive Sea Pines Resort is known for its multiple championship golf courses, guests of its Four-Star The Inn & Club at Harbour Town should also be aware of the Hilton Head campus’ world-class tennis facilities. With 21 clay courts, a full-service pro shop and a wide selection of teaching clinics and instructional programs, there’s plenty to keep your racket busy in between watching the Williams sisters’ matches in Rio.
ARCHERY
The Lodges and Cottages at Primland
Nestled in 12,000 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Southern Virginia, the Four-Star Primland resort provides a plush wilderness getaway, including plenty of outdoor activities that range from kayaking to cycling. But for this trip, you’ll want to spend a portion of your time at the Bow and Air Rifle Range. Use your one-hour session to learn how to safely load and aim arrows at whitetail deer, black bears and wild turkey targets.
GOLF
The American Club
As most sports fans know, the Five-Star American Club in Kohler, Wisconsin, delivers an exceptional experience for golf lovers. Relive moments from the 2015 PGA Championship on the gorgeous Whistling Straits course or create new memories with a round on the scenic Blackwolf Run layout. And if you want to improve your game, do so at the Kohler Golf Academy, one of the finest golf schools in America. Don’t forget to top it off with a visit to Five-Star Kohler Waters Spa.
SAILING
Ocean House
For true New England hospitality, make your way to Coastal Rhode Island’s Ocean House resort, one of only eight triple Five-Star (hotel, restaurant and spa) properties in the world. The seaside location not only helps with wooing guests but it makes the hotel an impeccable place for sailing. Overnight visitors can embark on two-hour cruises of the island on the resort’s own fleet of classic boats or hire a private charter.
TRIATHLON
Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa
Hidden away in Scottsdale’s Paradise Valley neighborhood, the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa offers a great getaway for those training for a triathlon. The three-day Triathlon Training package pairs you with Olympian trainers like gold-medal swimmer Misty Hyman and guides you through cycling, running and swimming exercises. As a bonus, three spa treatments are included to soothe sore muscles brought on by the strenuous workouts.
SOCCER
The Peninsula Paris
You may not be able to re-create the feeling of walking out onto the field at Rio’s Maracanã stadium during Olympic action, but what the Five-Star Peninsula Paris is able to do with its Soccer Fan’s Fantasy package sure comes close. With this unbelievable experience, Paris Saint-Germain FC followers walk on the hallowed pitch at Parc des Princes stadium with their favorite player, receive signed memorabilia and get two VIP tickets to an upcoming PSG match.
BOBSLED
Whiteface Lodge Resort & Spa
Though August is just getting started, there probably isn’t a better time for a trip to Four-Star Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid, New York, home to the 1980 Winter Games and the Lake Placid Olympic Center. Even without snow, you can take in Olympic history at the museum or climb aboard for a true bobsled experience. Hold on tight while you race down the track at speeds up to 93 mph with a professional driver and brakeman.