Best Running Holidays Around the World for 2026
- Laura Whyms
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
If you’re searching for the best running holidays in 2026, you’re not alone. More runners than ever are swapping traditional travel for active holidays that combine fitness, adventure and relaxation. A running holiday offers the perfect balance: exploring a new destination, improving your running, and enjoying a break that genuinely recharges you.
Whether you’re a trail enthusiast, a casual weekend runner, or someone looking for a supportive running retreat, 2026 is shaping up to be an outstanding year for running travel worldwide. Here’s your complete guide to the top running holidays and running retreats around the world.
Contents:
Why Running Holidays Are Trending in 2026
Searches for running holidays and active holidays are at an all-time high. Runners are increasingly seeking:
meaningful travel
supportive running communities
scenic routes instead of crowded races
trips that combine fitness and relaxation
A running holiday is more than just miles, it’s a chance to explore new landscapes, discover new trails, and enjoy a motivating, social environment.
In 2026, expect major growth in:
trail running holidays
women-only running retreats
warm-weather winter running getaways
social running weekends
global adventure running trips
The Best Running Holidays Around the World for 2026
European Running Holidays for 2026
Best for: Adventure seekers, cultural explorers, trail runners
Europe offers some of the most diverse running holidays in 2026 — from iconic pilgrimage routes to undiscovered mountain trails.
Camino de Santiago (Spain)
Running sections of the Camino de Santiago offers a powerful mix of:
rolling countryside
peaceful gravel paths
historic villages
a strong sense of purpose and community
Perfect for runners wanting an active holiday with meaning.
Kosovo
A rising destination for trail runners, known for:
dramatic mountains
quiet valleys
untouched trails
warm, welcoming culture
Ideal for adventurous runners seeking something new in Europe.
Albania
Beautiful, wild and affordable, Albania offers:
rugged mountain terrain
crystal-clear lakes
remote villages
superb trail variety
Perfect for runners wanting a European running retreat that still feels undiscovered.
Mountain Running Retreats in the Alps, Dolomites & Georgia
Best for: Trail runners, race preparation, adventurous travellers
If you love elevation, big views and technical trails, these mountain running destinations are perfect for 2026.
The Dolomites, Italy
Renowned for their incredible:
jagged limestone peaks
panoramic ridgelines
beautifully marked trails
dramatic, photogenic landscapes
A bucket-list destination for trail lovers.
Chamonix, France
The global home of trail running, offering:
iconic UTMB routes
alpine lakes
rolling mountain trails
glacier views
Ideal for strong trail runners and mountain beginners alike.
Caucasus Mountains, Georgia
Wild, underrated and breathtaking. Expect:
remote ridgelines
traditional mountain villages
deep valleys
huge open landscapes
Perfect for runners wanting a mountain retreat with a true sense of adventure.
Running & Wildlife Holidays (Kenya & Uganda)
Best for: Nature lovers, bucket-list travellers, warm-weather winter training
Looking for a running holiday unlike anything else? Combine your miles with wildlife spotting.
Kenya
Train where some of the world’s best runners live and run. Expect:
warm winter weather
peaceful red-earth trails
wildlife on the plains
Safari experiences
Ideal for runners wanting culture, warmth and inspiration.
Uganda
A lush, green, incredible destination for active travellers. Highlights include:
rolling hills
quiet dirt trails
chance to combine running with chimp trekking and game drives
meaningful cultural experiences
A perfect mix of adventure, nature and fitness.
Unusual Running Destinations: Iceland, Sri Lanka & Mongolia
Best for: Adventurous runners, unique landscapes, off-the-beaten-path travel
Want something completely different? These destinations offer unforgettable scenery and experiences.
Iceland
A dramatic backdrop for trail running, featuring:
black sand beaches
volcanoes
waterfalls
geothermal valleys
Perfect for runners who love raw, wild landscapes.
Sri Lanka
A tropical running paradise offering:
tea-plantation trails
jungle paths
mountain viewpoints
beautiful coastline
Great for runners wanting adventure plus warm weather.
Mongolia
One of the most unique places on earth to run. Expect:
vast open steppe
nomadic culture
incredibly peaceful trail routes
huge skies
Ideal for runners craving solitude, space and freedom.
5. UK Running Weekends: Wales, Cornwall & The Lake District
Best for: Short breaks, beginners, budget-friendly escapes
Not all running holidays require a flight. The UK offers world-class running destinations.
Wales
Famous for:
mountain routes
grassy ridgelines
forest trails
rugged coastlines
A brilliant all-round destination for trail running.
Cornwall
A stunning UK option with:
open paths
beautiful villages
sea views
rolling countryside
Perfect for runners wanting a refreshing, scenic break.
The Lake District
A must-visit for trail runners. Expect:
mountain climbs
lakeside paths
technical trails
iconic fell-running terrain
One of the UK’s most rewarding active holiday destinations.
6. Women-Only Running Retreats
Best for: Solo travellers, confidence building, supportive groups
Women-only running holidays are becoming one of the biggest trends for 2026 as more female runners seek:
safe, supportive spaces
confidence-building experiences
friendly groups
relaxed, scenic trail running
expert coaching and encouragement
These retreats create a welcoming environment perfect for beginners and experienced runners alike.
Ready to Book Your 2026 Running Holiday?
Whether you’re dreaming of mountains, wildlife, coastlines or supportive running communities, Run Weekends offers inspiring running trips for all levels.
Explore upcoming running weekends, retreats and active holidays at: www.runweekends.com
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