There's a new type of holiday taking the nation by storm

Brits are ditching traditional getaways in favour of a completely different type of minibreak

Forget boozy lads' weekends or city breaks with jam-packed schedules - there's a whole new style of holiday taking the nation by storm.

New research from Holiday Inn Express has revealed that 60% of Brits are favouring micro-adventures during their precious days off, whether exploring the outdoors or taking on gruelling physical challenges.

Nearly a third of those surveyed by OnePoll for the launch of Holiday Inn Express' 'We Know What Matters' campaign admitted that they use their minibreaks as the perfect opportunity to improve their overall health and wellbeing, while less than 15% would opt for a getaway indulging in food and alcohol.

Lazing around on a beach isn't topping the itinerary either - and relaxing with a good book was chosen by just 5% of Brits. Instead, hiking was revealed as the most popular activity to do on a break, closely followed by cycling, water sports and sailing.

Brits are favouring more active minibreaks

Exercise is proving to be a popular reason to taking time off, with one in twenty Brits admitting they booked a break that coincided with a sporting event such as Iron Man or a triathlon in order to be able to take part.

It's not surprising that Brits are favouring holidays with a busier agenda, especially as thanks to social media, we're feeling the pressure more than ever to make the most of our time off.

However, doing too much could defeat the point of having a break at all, and you might find yourself quickly feeling the need for another getaway. Research showed that the average adult starts to want another holiday just 29 days after returning from their last one.

Eating more comfort food, feeling more tired than usual and not being able to face your to-do list were listed as just some of the warning signs that you need to unwind.

Only 5% of those asked said they planned to relax with a book during their holiday

Finding the right balance when you take time off doesn't mean you have to give up being active completely - there are plenty of affordable trips in which you can combine the two. For example, Amsterdam is ideal for a cultural getaway, and there are plenty of cycling tours and trails if you want to incorporate a bit of exercise as you explore the city.

If you're considering a holiday that's more than just a long weekend, then there are some brilliant exotic destinations such as Thailand and Cambodia where you'll be spoiled for choice with activities, but you can also unwind in five-star accommodation for less than £100 a night.