Cover The Big Five Marathon takes race participants through the Entabeni Game Reserve in Limpopo, South Africa (Photo: Instagram / @bigfivemarathon)
The Big Five Marathon takes race participants through the Entabeni Game Reserve in Limpopo, South Africa (Photo: Instagram / @bigfivemarathon)
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Forget boring marathons. These race-cations aren’t just about crossing the finish line; they’re about experiencing the world in a new, exhilarating way.
Marathons are a true test of your human capabilities. They strain your body, stretch your mental endurance and make you question your life choices. And yet, despite this, you find yourself signing up for the next one long before you leave your last race venue.
But more people have been embracing this pain as a passport to adventure. ‘Race-cations’ have evolved marathons from a simple 42.2-kilometre run into a cultural and sensory experience, where personal achievement and luxury escape meet at the starting line.
Imagine running through historic streets or absorbing culture with every step. These destination marathons abound throughout Asia, taking runners through some of the region’s most beautiful scenery, including the Angkor Wat complex in Cambodia, the Tarako Gorge in Taiwan and even the Great Wall in China.
Likewise, these race-cations outside Asia reward runners not just with a medal and a sense of accomplishment. The entire experience energises the body and inspires the soul. As more runners trade their usual routes for destination races, race-cations bring together sport and travel—one finish line at a time.
1. Athens Marathon, Greece
When: November
Where: Marathon to Athens, Greece
What: The Athens Marathon is a recreation of the original run where the entire sport legendarily takes its concept from, when Greek messenger Pheidippides ran from the battlefield of Marathon to the city of Athens to announce the Athenian army’s victory over the Persians. This modern iteration starts in the town of Marathon, and, after a challenging, hilly course, finishes at the marble Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
The run itself is a treat, but you can spend your downtime wandering through the Acropolis, exploring the ancient Agora, and savouring traditional mezze in Plaka’s charming, bougainvillea-lined tavernas. Take a day trip to Cape Sounion to watch the sunset over the Temple of Poseidon, or unwind along the Athens Riviera, where luxury resorts and seaside taverns offer a blissful post-run retreat.
Don't miss: Top destinations you must visit during a trip to Greece
2. Rome Marathon, Italy
When: March or April
Where: Rome, Italy
What: Running through the heart of Rome, this imarathon route looks like a moving postcard. Starting and ending at the Via dei Fori Imperiali, near the Colosseum, each stride takes you through landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum and St. Peter’s Basilica. The vacation possibilities are endless: toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, marvel at Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel and get lost in Trastevere’s cobbled alleyways. After the race, reward yourself with a wine-soaked dinner overlooking the Piazza Navona or take a side trip to the rolling vineyards of Tuscany because in Italy, every kilometre deserves a glass of Chianti.
Also read: 24 hours to dine: Falling in love with Rome's rich food scene
3. Big Sur International Marathon, USA
When: April
Where: Highway 1, California, USA
What: The Big Sur Marathon is widely considered one of the most beautiful races in the world. It offers breathtaking views of California’s rugged coastline, with cliffs plunging into the Pacific Ocean. Post-run—that is, if you have legs left—you can explore the artistic haven of Carmel-by-the-Sea, with its boutique galleries and fairytale cottages. Nearby, Monterey’s world-famous aquarium and the scenic 17-Mile Drive offer family-friendly fun. Wrap up your trip with a drive down the Pacific Coast Highway. You can also enjoy wine tastings in Paso Robles or soak in the bohemian vibes of the nearby redwood forests.
See more: 10 incredible marathons in Asia for adventure runners
4. Walt Disney World Marathon, USA
When: January
Where: Orlando, Florida, USA
What: The Walt Disney Marathon lasts an entire weekend and has categories in the 42.2km, 21.1km and 5km, taking runners on a whimsical adventure through all four Orlando theme parks, with beloved characters cheering you on. But the magic extends well beyond the race. Stay at one of Disney’s luxurious resorts, spend the day hopping between theme parks or unwind at Disney Springs with its upscale dining and shopping. For a break from the crowds, explore the natural beauty of Florida with an airboat ride through the Everglades or a day at Cocoa Beach.
5. Mount Fuji Marathon, Japan
When: November
Where: Fujikawaguchiko, Japan
What: Looping around Lake Kawaguchi with Mount Fuji towering in the distance, this marathon is as serene as it is stunning. It happens around November or December, making the autumn foliage the picture-perfect backdrop to those necessary running selfies. Pamper those overworked muscles in a traditional ryokan with onsen baths. Re-load on carbs with kaiseki cuisine. If you want a different view of the mountain post-run, ride a cable car. It’s also a must to visit the nearby Chureito Pagoda, where you can take the perfect shot with that well-deserved medal.
See more: 5 onsen ryokans that boast incredible views of Mount Fuji
6. Big Five Marathon, South Africa
When: June
Where: Entabeni Game Reserve, Limpopo Province, South Africa
What: ‘The Big Five’ refers to lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceroses and Cape buffalos, which you’re expected to see when you embark on this run. The race itself takes place on a private game reserve, but don’t worry: everything is under the careful watch of experienced rangers to ensure safety. Stay in a five-star lodge, sip sundowners on the savannah and explore nearby attractions like Blyde River Canyon and the Panorama Route.
Also read: Why safaris are a ‘life changing’ experience, according to Africa's leading luxury operators
7. Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon, USA
When: February
Where: Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
What: Rock ‘n’ Roll has marathons all over the world, including the Philippines, Spain and California. It’s extra special because bands are scattered throughout the course, giving a pumping beat to your pounding heart. However, the most incredible version of this race happens in Vegas. It happens in the evening, and you can reward yourself with Vegas fixings after: Michelin-starred dining, extravagant shopping at The Forum Shops or Crystals and world-class shows.
Not into the nightlife? Take a trip to Red Rock Canyon for some desert hiking or venture to the Grand Canyon for an unforgettable helicopter tour.
8. Marathon du Médoc, France
When: September
Where: Bordeaux, France
What: This is the marathon for people who say they don’t do marathons. It’s supposedly the slowest marathon in the world because runners can sip some wine as they run the course, which winds through the vineyards of Bordeaux. Race participants—many in costume—stop for wine, cheese and oysters along the way. After the race, one can indulge in châteaux tours, sample Bordeaux’s finest vintages in a more leisurely fashion and take a side trip to the picturesque villages of the Dordogne Valley.
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