Race to the Finish Line: The Most Scenic Running Routes Around the World

Sport is in our veins! While we love travelling to global sporting events around the world, we are also an active team who enjoy several outdoor pursuits, including running. While running on a treadmill in a gym gets those endorphins going, it doesn’t offer the breathtaking scenery and fresh air that outdoor running provides! For those who enjoy exploring new places while getting a workout, we’ve compiled a list of the most scenic running routes in the world. 

What is the world’s toughest trail?

The Barkley Marathons is considered the world’s toughest trail race. Located in Frozen Head State Park, Tennessee, this 100-mile race consists of five loops through rugged terrain with more than 54,000 feet of elevation gain. The course is not marked, and runners must navigate through dense forests, steep climbs, and rough terrain. Only 15 runners have completed the race in its 30-year history. One of the most unsual parts of this race is that runners have to collect a page from several books located on the route to prove that they’ve completed the full course! 

What is the most beautiful run in the world?

There are many beautiful runs in the world, but one of the most stunning is the Great Ocean Road Running Festival in Victoria, Australia. This event takes place along the Great Ocean Road, a scenic highway that hugs the coastline and passes through picturesque towns and natural wonders like the Twelve Apostles rock formations. (These are not the same as Cape Town’s Twelve Apostles Mountain Range, but unique limestone stacks). Runners can choose from a variety of distances, including a full marathon, half marathon, and 14K. 

Another breathtaking route is the Swiss Alps 100, a 100-mile ultra-marathon through the Swiss Alps. The race starts and finishes in the charming town of Grindelwald and passes through stunning landscapes like the Eiger North Face and the Aletsch Glacier. 

What are South Africa’s most iconic races?

South Africa is also home to some spectacular and iconic races, namely the Two Oceans Marathon, and the Comrades Marathon. 

The Two Oceans Marathon is one of South Africa’s most popular races, attracting runners from all over the world. The ultra-marathon, which was held the weekend after Easter Sunday in 2023, covers a distance of 56 km and takes runners on a scenic route that showcases the beauty of Cape Town’s coastal and mountainous landscapes. The race starts in Rondebosch Main Road and finishes at the University of Cape Town, with runners passing through Chapman’s Peak, Hout Bay, Constantia Nek, and Rhodes Drive adjacent to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. The challenging route includes several steep climbs, including a gruelling 2 km ascent up Constantia Nek. 

The Comrades Marathon is another famous ultra-marathon that takes place in South Africa. It is one of the oldest and largest ultra-marathons in the world, covering a distance of approximately 90 km between the cities of Durban and Pietermaritzburg. The race alternates annually between an “up” run, starting in Durban and finishing in Pietermaritzburg, and a “down” run, starting in Pietermaritzburg and finishing in Durban. The race is known for its steep hills and long, challenging climbs, including the infamous Polly Shortts, a 1.6 km hill that tests runners’ endurance and mental toughness. Despite the gruelling course, the Comrades Marathon attracts thousands of runners every year, with many returning year after year to tackle the challenge. 

Is trail running harder than road running?

Trail running is typically considered more challenging than running on a paved surface due to the varied terrain, including rocks, roots, and steep inclines. The uneven ground requires more balance and stability, and the constant changes in elevation can be physically demanding. However, many people find trail running to be more enjoyable and rewarding than running on a treadmill or pavement due to the natural surroundings and sense of adventure.  

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, exploring new routes can make your workouts more exciting and enjoyable. From the rugged trails of Tennessee to the stunning coastlines of Australia and the breathtaking routes of South Africa, these scenic running routes offer a unique and unforgettable experience for runners of all levels. So grab your running shoes and hit the road! 

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