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5 of the best running holidays

Get your trainers on and discover the best running holidays.
Running is one of the best ways to explore a new place, whether it's on the local trails while out on your morning jog or during an overseas marathons where you're racing to the finish line. And, unlike other fitness trends that come and go, running never goes out of fashion. It’s free, it doesn’t require any special equipment – just trainers – and it’s great for both mind and body. Plus, you can do as much or as little of it as you like, anywhere you go. Whether you prefer a short jaunt around the park or a long-distance trek, one thing’s for sure – running is a whole lot more fun on holiday. Though travel isn't possible right now, here are a few ideas for when you can swap your early-morning pavement-pounding for a cliff-top run in the sunshine…

1. BE AN IRON MAN IN LANZAROTE

If you want to try your hand at something a little tougher than your usual jog while on holiday, have a go at the Lanzarote Ironman in May, which is considered to be one of the toughest Ironman Triathlons in the world. Taking in Lanzarote's beautiful scenery from the sea to the mountains, it includes a swim at Playa Grande, a bike ride that climbs 2,500 metres and a run along the flat seafront of Puerto del Carmen.

2. SIGN UP FOR A BARBADOS FUN RUN

Barbados plays host to an annual three-day road-running event at various spots across the island’s southwest corner, with races suitable for all ages and abilities. Try St Lawrence for the Fun Mile run around St Lawrence Gap and Dover. It doesn’t cost much to enter, and as it usually takes place in the evening you can treat yourself to dinner and a celebratory drink once you’ve crossed the finish line.

3. TACKLE SOME TRAIL RUNS IN THE COSTA BRAVA

Head to Spain’s Costa Brava and you’ve got some amazing running trails to chose from in the hills around Lloret de Mar. There are paths for running and hiking that wind their way along the coast, from Blanes in the south, to Tossa de Mar in the northwest. And inland, the routes weave through forests of pine and holm oak.

4. BEAT THE CROWDS ON THE COSTA DEL SOL

The Costa del Sol provides a real smorgasbord of running routes, from the mountains surrounding Malaga, to a round-trip trail in Puerto Banus. There are trails that would suit a quick jog and others that will take you a couple of hours. For a morning jog with some sightseeing along the way, make your way through the glitzy town of Puerto Banus, often referred to as the Spanish St Tropez. Start early from the harbour, and head either 1.5km to Playa Nueva Andalucia, or 2.5km to Playa Rio Verde. More experienced runners will love the 10km or 22km circuit around the Montes de Malaga, the mountains surrounding the city.

5. TAKE A HIKE IN GREECE

Greece is the home of the original marathon. In 4900BC, Greek messenger Pheidippides ran from the battlefield of Marathon all the way to Athens, clocking up a colossal 26.2 miles. If you fancy following in his footsteps, the Athens Marathon takes place every year in November. Or, head to the island of Kos and run or hike to the top of Mount Dikeos. The island’s highest peak, it’s zigzagged with walking trails made by locals who come here to pick wild herbs. The reward for reaching the top will be stunning views of Kos.
Ready to put on your running shoes?

Check out our list of the best hotels for an active holiday, plus learn how to do a Sun Salutation at home.

Pssst. Head to the Discover homepage for our latest articles.

Author: Katie Gregory

Last updated: 11.05.2020

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