Luxurious Sports Resorts

El Colibrí Estancia de Charme
Argentina
Whether you’re passionate about polo or just looking for a new hobby, the Argentine countryside is one of the best places to practise chukkas. The ranch, set against the bluish-grey mountains of Córdoba, operates its own polo club. Ponies are bred and cared for on-site, and the club participates in provincial and national tournaments. Professional players run lessons and clinics for beginners and experienced players on the two maxi-sized fields, and guests are invited to sample asado criollo (traditional barbecue) and local wine at the clubhouse at the close of every game.

www.estanciaelcolibri.com

Four Seasons Resort
Maldives at Kuda Huraa
Surf’s up in the Indian Ocean atolls – it’s peak season from now until September as waves range from chest height to double-overhead. Partnered with Australian surfing outfitter Tropicsurf, the resort offers options for beginners and experienced surfers. Rookies master the basics within Kuda Huraa’s calm lagoon before venturing out on supervised excursions, while old-timers have a choice of six quality breaks all within a 20-minute speedboat ride to gnarly secret spots nearby.

www.fourseasons.com/maldiveskh

Rome Cavalieri
Rome
When in Rome, do as the Romans used to do – duelling, gladiator-style. The Scuola Gladiatori Roma teaches ancient combat techniques in the hotel’s private park. Students who complete the training receive a medal and the title tiro (beginner gladiator). However, it’s probably wise to hold off challenging Russell Crowe to a fight just yet.

www.romecavalieri.com

The Gleneagles Hotel
Scotland
Perfect your swing at the PGA National Golf Academy, then tee off at one of the three championship golf courses, including the Jack Nicklaus-designed PGA Centenary Course (host venue for the 2014 Ryder Cup). If golf’s not to your liking, there’s a multitude of other activities including clay-pigeon shooting and archery, horse riding at the equestrian school, fishing trips with expert anglers, and even falconry.

www.gleneagles.com

The Berkeley
London
Aqua ballerinas don their best cossies, swimming caps and nose clips as the latest fitness fad hits the hotel’s rooftop pool. Learn to scull and do the eggbeater kick as gracefully as 1940s MGM film icon Esther Williams with the help of Aquabatix, the award-winning synchronised swimming team whose members include Olympic hopefuls Jenna Randall and Olivia Federici.

www.the-berkeley.co.uk