Running for hours on end is never easy, but certainly far more enjoyable when taking in one of the most beautiful marathons in the world. Our team has run a lot of races, but more importantly we’ve coached thousands of runners to get a lot of feedback about which races sound great, but aren’t and which races might be flying under the radar that are truly spectacular.
Training for a race in a spectacular location gives you an added boost and might just get your family a bit more excited about all the early mornings you’ll be putting in when they consider the racecation!
If you’re looking to combine gorgeous views with your next 26.2 miles, here are 10 marathons to consider.
Icefjord Midnight Marathon (Ilulissat, Greenland)
- Date: May
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Location: Ilulissat, Greenland, near UNESCO Icefjord
- Profile: Hilly with mixed trail, road, rocky sections
- Type: Point-to-Point
This is one of the world’s most remote marathons, but the experience of running surrounded by icebergs, glaciers, and frozen fjords is bound to be unforgettable.
The Ilulissat Icefjord is an UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the marathon route puts it on full display as runners traverse tundra, rocky trails, and views of a endlessly icy sea.
The Icefjord Midnight Marathon occurs during midnight sun season (when the sun never sets), which means that even though you’re running at midnight, the sky will be golden, almost surreal.
Runners have described the atmosphere as dreamlike, and with no crowds, no traffic, and no artificial noise, the silence and solitude contribute to that effect.
The fjord is one of the last truly untouched places on Earth, and the course isn’t an easy one. You’ll want to dress in layers to deal with changes in the weather, and train on rugged trails and shifting elevation to prepare.
One of the race’s unexpected bonuses is getting to experience some Greenland culture, built on traditional Inuit heritage and melded with modern Arctic life. Locals are happy to interact with races, giving them a glimpse into what the history of life in the Arctic really looks like.
Running in the Icefjord Midnight Marathon is more than a race, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience, too.
Erwin from the UK agrees is was quite the experience:
“We wanted to run a special trail marathon with our son and found this one. It looked amazing and we signed up. So glad we did. The experience was brilliant. Not just running a marathon over the mountains in the midnight sun with views of massive ice bergs (!!), but the whole experience was very nice. Great group from 24 nationalities to engage with, great excursions – we did kayaking and the trip to the Eqi glacier (saw whales!) – and really nice dinners, specially the Greenlandic buffet at the end. Thank you very much to the race organisation, Michael our tour leader in the Icefjord hotel (amazing place by the way) and the very welcoming local community who supported us during the race and manned the drink stations,.”
Big Five Marathon (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa)
- Date: June
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Location: Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa
- Profile: Hilly with mixed trail, road, rocky sections
- Type: Loop
It’s been said that the Big Five Marathon isn’t just a race, it’s an immersive experience in the wilds of Africa, and is as much a wildlife safari as it is a marathon.
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, it’s hard to believe you would find a more beautiful experience than this one. The marathon gets its name from the “Big Five” animals – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo, all of which you will have the opportunity to glimpse while you run.
There are no fences separating you from the wildlife or the extraordinary, dramatic terrain. Rangers and helicopters are on hand to hopefully mitigate any confrontation between wildlife and runners, and no one has ever been harmed during this race to date.
The trail takes participants through savannahs, open plains, rocky hills, and river valleys, and from acacia trees to vivid colors to endless horizons, you’ll never lack sights that belong in a National Geographic magazine.
The Big Five is a challenging race, so you’ll want to train on elevation changes, running in higher altitudes, and on trails that range from sandy to loose rock.
Entries are limited to keep the race feeling small and exclusive, and encouraging races to build a sense of community.
Participant whatastramash says the experience was one of a kind:
“This was my 30th marathon, and it was the hardest but easily the most memorable.
First of all, you are in the South African savannah! It is a beautiful, magical place. We stayed at Hanglip Lodge, which only has 10 rooms so we got to know all the other runners well, and the staff/rangers were superb. It’s also located on the lower plateau of Entabeni, so super convenient for the daily game drives.The day before the race there is a mandatory course inspection (by jeep), so you can see what you are in for. The course is mainly on direct trails, but with ~6 miles through sand and numerous rocky sections throughout. Trail shoes are recommended. You will be in full sun throughout, and the altitude is ~5,000ft.
COURSE DETAILS: Make no mistake, this course will test you from beginning to end, but it will reward you with beauty in equal measure! It’s cold at the start (winter in South Africa) but quickly warms up and was in the 70s most of the race. There is very little shade anywhere though and the sun is blazing, so sunscreen is a must.
You start with a significant climb then continue with a more gradual incline to the turnaround at Hanglip viewpoint. Around mile 7 you head down Yellowwood Valley for ~1.5 miles – this is the only paved part and it is super steep. Very hard to run here and maintain control, so baby steps and zig zagging are the way to go.
At the bottom is a loop of ~6-7 miles on the lower plateau through ankle deep sand – this is tough on the legs. At the end of that you arrive back at Yellowwood Valley and – you guessed it – you go back up that long super steep hill. This was the hardest 1.5 miles of my life, could only take a few steps at a time before needing to rest and catch my breath.
Some people were crawling.
It’s no joke, but it does end and things level out for the next several miles, before you encounter some more hills and rocky trails in the last 2-3.
I saw wildebeest and rhino while running (and elephants en route to the start), but the rangers make sure the lions are nowhere near!
The aid stations were so much fun – water, coke, and bundles of enthusiasm. Many times you are on your own (only ~200 runners) – stop a moment, take pictures, and soak in the majesty of the location – it is wonderful.
I can’t recommend this race (and the whole experience) enough. Yes it was hard, but it’s an experience like none other, in a place you will not forget. “
Patagonia Running Festival Marathon
- Date: September
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Location: Torress del Paine National Park, Chile
- Profile: Rolling Hills, Open Trail
- Type: Point-to-Point
Patagonia is described as one of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring landscapes on the planet, and many runners who prioritize natural beauty and solitude definitely put this experience on their bucket list.
Torres del Paine National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and there you’ll run through jagged mountain peeks, glimpse glaciers and turquoise lakes, dense forests, and pampas. There are no shortage of places to stop and snap a picture; it’s a bit like running through a series of postcards.
Like the Ilulissat Icefjord, Patagnoia is remote and wild, and largely untouched by humanity. The landscapes are pristine and unspoiled, and the lack of cities, crowds, and ambient noise makes this a quiet race where wildlife sightings are common.
The weather is unpredictable and you’ll need to train on both challenging trails and at elevation if you want to complete this one.
All told, you’ll feel more like you’re on an expedition than running a race – which is fitting, considering it also feels like an expedition just getting there in the first place.
Susank definitely doesn’t regret going to the trouble, though:
“If your dream is to one day see one of the top ten scenic places in the world – and also run a marathon or a half-marathon- then put the Patagonia Running Festival on your bucket list! You will NOT regret choosing this destination, especially if you are a Marathon Tours member working towards your seven continents. The beauty of the Torres Del Plaines mountains, experienced with hiking, horse-back riding, or racing, will amaze and delight you while also fulfilling your race goals.
I am so glad and grateful for this experience. Patagonia had been on my wish list for years. Thankful for the motivation of my running friend, Sarah Evans, who checked off her fifth continent also, and my husband, Jeff Rohleder, who is always game for another Marathon Tours trip.”
Great Wall Marathon (Tianjin Province, China)
- Date: May
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Location: Great Wall, Huangyaguan section, Tianjin Province
- Profile: Hilly, Stone/Brick/Paved
- Type: Loop
What makes the Great Wall Marathon a destination for so many is not only the incredible setting and visually stunning course, but the historic significance of the Wall itself. It’s one of the Seven Wonders of The World, is over 2,000 years old, and provides a combination of history and challenge that’s hard to match.
The race does cover parts of the Wall itself, including 5,164 stone steps that range in height, but also winds through rolling hills and valleys that make up the Tianjin province. You’ll be treated to views of mountain ridges, traditional villages, terraced fields, and panoramic views of sections of the Wall.
The Great Wall Marathon is a physically demanding race, including running at elevation and climbing those steps along the way. You’ll definitely want to bring your camera, though, because as the sun rises over the Wall, the photo ops are endless.
Runner erdaugherty calls the run “truly iconic:”
“Truly iconic and challenging. Once in a lifetime experience. Not a course for any sort of good finish time, but scenery, location, and support of the local villagers made it a wonderful experience.”
Paris Marathon (Paris, France)
- Date: April
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Location: Great Wall, Huangyaguan section, Tianjin Province
- Profile: Flat and Fast
- Type: Point-to-Point
Few people would argue against Paris being one of the most beautiful cities in the world, so it makes sense that a marathon that includes its iconic landmarks would make this list.
You can’t beat sights like the Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, Notre Dame, etc, and this marathon serves them all up over 26.2 miles.
Runners are also treated to historic neighborhoods, charming streets, and beautiful parks that showcase the city’s architecture. Spectators, music, and cuisine add to the lively atmosphere and rich culture surrounding the race.
Since the race is in the spring, the flowers add that extra special touch to an already bursting-with-beauty race.
This Paris first-timer can’t wait to go back:
“Overall, the Paris Marathon is a great race. The number of historical monuments and buildings you pass is amazing. This was my first time in Paris as well as my first time running this marathon.
On race day, I was in the last wave of 4:30 + runners. Our scheduled start time was at 11:10am. Volunteers would start portions of our corral every minute or so to space us out. I was near the front of the wave and started at 11:14am.
Aid stations along the course are spread out every 5k. Paris is becoming more sustainable so they give water bottles instead of cups of water. This helped me fill my handheld water bottle more easily. The food at stations were things like crackers, croissants, & bananas. Aid stations in the 2nd half of the race were running out of some of the food and bottles of water.
Support along the course is fairly good. My Airbnb host explained that it’s not as common in France for people to cheer for runners they don’t know. At the busier areas, some people did do this though. I believe this is slowly changing and I definitely appreciated their shouts of “Courage!””
Loch Ness Marathon (Inverness, Scotland)
- Date: September
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Location: Begins in the moors near Whitebridge and finishes in Inverness, Scotland
- Profile: Rolling Hills
- Type: Point-to-Point
The run along legendary Loch Ness is full of iconic views of the Scottish Highlands, along with the shimmering, placid waters of the lake itself.
There’s no arguing with the beauty presented by rugged mountains, dense forests, and rolling countryside of the area, and the moors are something most visitors never forget. Combine that with quaint villages and towns and glimpses into Scottish heritage, and there’s enough charm to last anyone 26.2 miles and beyond.
The air is crisp and fresh, and the rural setting makes this a more peaceful marathon setting than most.
Of course, we can’t forget the legend of the Loch Ness Monster and the added touch of fun that mystery brings with it.
Racer grimeslaw loved his travel there:
“Loch Ness Marathon was on my bucket list, and I finally ran it this year. Throughout the months leading up to the race, you get emails with pertinent and helpful information. As you get close, you even get links to a review of the course-breaking it down into sections.
Everything was very helpful and very clear. The expo is an outdoor festival. They have a 5K, 10K, and marathon. They had helpers working to keep the lines moving for the packet pickup, and I made it through with only a minimal wait. It wasn’t the biggest expo as far as products available for purchase; but there were plenty with relevant things to pick up at the last minute.
The race is a point-to-point race, and you have to take a bus out early in the morning to the starting point. They must have commandeered every bus in Scotland to take the 5000 participants to the starting line. It was handled as smoothly as you could want. Probably could have used more porta potties; but everyone was using the woods around us as an alternative. The race started with bagpipes and beautiful scenery.
The weather is always changing and we had sun, rain, wind and then 60 degrees. Others in the past have raved about the course, and they were right. It is the most beautiful course I have run. You get gorgeous views of Loch Ness and the Highlands.
But the course is a killer. There are some brutal hills. When people here and elsewhere emphasize practice running hills, believe them. The downhills can be steep, and my quads are still killing me.
You finish the race at the Festival. There’s a banana and water and a goody bag-nothing exciting. The medal is a classic one, and you get a finisher shirt. I would absolutely recommend doing this race.
Also, everyone we met in Scotland was friendly and helpful.”
Honolulu Marathon
- Date: December
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Location: Honolulu, HI
- Profile: Flat and Fast
- Type: Point-to-Point
This race blends the natural beauty of the Hawaiian islands with its unique culture, resulting in an atmosphere that’s impossible to find anywhere else.
You’ll be treated to ocean views along the Pacific coastline, featuring white-sand beaches, the Diamond Head volcanic crater, and a beautiful sunrise finish near Waikiki. The paved streets are lined with palm trees and other beautiful flora, and tropical breezes make for a pleasant running experience.
Traditional music, hula dancers, and other cultural touches make this marathon more of a cultural experience than a race – or at least, as much of one.
And I mean…who doesn’t love an excuse for a Hawaiian vacay?
Literally no one.
Participant irunieat definitely didn’t regret his:
“This was my first marathon and it was packed with Aloha spirit, personal triumphs, and stunning Hawaiian scenery! The course was challenging and definitely not a walk in the park.
I choose the 2024 Honolulu Marathon as my first marathon because I figured if you are going to run 26.2 miles, it might as well be in paradise! I definitely got the paradise piece I came for, but I did not count on the heat and humidity!
Luckily, I was born in Alabama and currently live in Atlanta, Georgia, so I know a little something about heat and humidity. Lol. With that being said, if you choose to run this race, please train for the heat and humidity and plan your hydration and fueling strategy. Also, be prepared for two pretty good hills around Diamond Head Crater.
This was a huge race with 30,000+ runners so logistics at the beginning of the race were a little rough, but I think the organizers did a pretty good job.
The fireworks were amazing at the beginning of the rave, and the Holiday lights downtown made the start of the race very festive!
I love this race. It was harder than I thought, but crossing the finish line was rewarding! The medal and swag was great as well as the malasadas at the finish line!”
Queenstown, New Zealand Marathon
- Date: November
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Location: Queenstown, New Zealand
- Profile: Some hills, mix of trails and paved
- Type: Point-to-Point
If you’ve ever been to New Zealand, you already know that there’s nothing like the natural scenery that literally surrounds you. Combine that with a unique course and tons of atmosphere, and it’s easy to see why this one ranks with runners as one of the most beautiful.
Queenstown is in the heart of the Southern Alps on the shore of Lake Wakatipu. Everywhere you look, you’ll see dramatic, snow-capped mountains and the accompanying alpine landscapes.
In addition, the lake’s waters are crystal clear, and the course also features vineyards, forests, and far-reaching countryside.
The race is held in springtime down under, so the country will also treat you to blooming wildflowers, comfortable temperatures, and endless opportunities for adventure both before and after your race.
Drew NYC says this should absolutely be on your bucket list:
“If you enjoy visiting new places for marathon, this race absolutely should be on your bucket list. Queenstown is absolutely beautiful and a fun place to visit.
Traveling to New Zealand isn’t easy (or rather, it takes a long time to get there). Don’t let that scare you off. It isn’t that bad. Most likely, you will need to fly into Auckland first. Not a bad idea to spend a day or two there before coming to Queenstown.
Queenstown is an absolutely place with lots of options for active travelers. You can bungee jump off the bridge where bungee jumping was born. There is zip lining, rafting, luge, and gondolas plus wine tours and visits to beautiful locations used in Lord of the Rings, Mission Impossible, and other movies. You should visit Fergburger–well known for their burgers–it is worth the wait.
The expo is small (and a bit disorganized). The medal was better than I expected. Race morning there is a shuttle to the start. The start area (for bag drop, port-o-potties, etc) was surprisingly a bit away from the start line. I wish the race would have started earlier (the marathon goes off at 8:30am, after the 10k and half marathon start). The course is beautiful, but hilly. Don’t let the “flat out beautiful” slogan of the race deceive you! Decent finish area, though they were out of some things (including the beer I wanted!) but the time I finished.
It really was a spectacular running vacation. I enjoyed myself immensely and I would highly recommend this adventure for any runners who love traveling to new places.”
Iceland Volcano Marathon (Lake Myvatn, Iceland)
- Date: June
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Location: North Volcanic Zone of Iceland
- Profile: Rolling Hills, mix of trails and paved
- Type: Point-to-Point
Runners describe this area as “otherworldly,” and with that, unlike any other race on planet Earth. The Lake Myvatn region of Northern Iceland is known for its dramatic volcanic features, and participants will pass lava fields, craters, geothermal vents, mud pools, and remnants of ancient eruptions that are sure to fill you with awe.
The route includes geological wonders like the Hverfjall volcano and the Dimmuborgir lava formations, and it’s almost like you’re running on another planet entirely. Mars, maybe, or the Moon.
Add in the midnight sun’s soft, golden light, and some runners call the quiet, serene route simply magical.
The race is intimate, dotted with birds, and defined by its stark beauty.
Polly NZ had zero complaints:
“Iceland Volcanic marathon adventure was amazing. Great destination. Tough marathon but iconic ground to break. Great sense of achievement. Well organised .”
Nice-Cannes Marathon (Nice, France)
- Date: November
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Location: Nice and Cannes, France
- Profile: Flat & Fast
- Type: Point-to-Point
When someone says “name the most beautiful location in the world,” the French Riviera has to come to mind – and this marathon takes you right up the coast, with views of the sparkling, blue Mediterranean Sea the entire way.
Runners go though towns with recognizable names: Nice, Antibes, Juan-les-Pins, and finally Cannes, and each one is more charming than the last. From one famous destination to another, you can enjoy sea breezes and plenty of palm trees along the way as well.
The Roman ruins are also beautiful, along with being historic, and there’s plenty more culture in the form of history and art int he area, too. There are endless photo ops and the entire race feels like a mini European vacation.
If you’re looking for a race that’s beautiful but more urban – and easier to get to – this might be the one on the list best suited for you.
Repeat participant Frederic explains why he keeps coming back:
“To me, it is the most beautiful marathon around the world! Excellent support and ambiance along the marathon and everywhere! To km 30 at Cap d’Antibes, under pin trees for a little bit of coolness I love it!
Finishing in Cannes, on Boulevard de la Croisette where support and atmosphere are awasome! To be finisher on French Riviera Marathon Nice-Cannes is a lot of emotions and very pretty images in the head.”
I can’t wait for my next running adventure abroad, and I can’t wait to hear about yours, either.
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