Best Running Vacations: The Ultimate Guide to Running Holidays Around the World
- Laura Whyms
- Aug 7
- 11 min read
If you love running, there’s a pretty good chance you also love exploring. And what better way to see a new part of the world than on two feet?
Running holidays have changed a lot in recent years. They’re no longer just about joining a race somewhere sunny or spending a week training for your next marathon. The best running vacations are about discovering new places, running incredible trails, eating very well, meeting like-minded people and coming home with tired legs and a camera roll full of memories.
That’s exactly what we love about running holidays at Run Weekends. From trail running holidays in Europe to big mountain adventures in Pakistan, from the beaches of Cornwall to the wild landscapes of Patagonia, our running trips are designed to combine running with everything that makes travel exciting.
And the best part? We’re not interested in racing each other. We run together, explore together and make the most of wherever we happen to be. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed running weekend, a serious trail running adventure or a once-in-a-lifetime running holiday abroad, there’s a Run Weekends trip for you.
So, where are the best places to go? Here are some of our favourites.
Contents:
What makes a great running holiday?
Before we get into the destinations, it’s worth saying that there’s no single definition of the perfect running holiday.
For some runners, it means huge mountains and long days on the trail. For others, it’s sunshine, good food and a few beautiful runs between swimming in the sea.
Some people want a proper challenge. Others want a social running retreat where the running is just one part of the experience.
That’s why our trips are so varied.
You can run through the Dolomites one week and along the South Downs the next. You can spend a few days exploring Sri Lanka’s tea country, run beneath the peaks of the Karakoram in Pakistan, or discover the coastline of Northumberland.
And because our groups are small and our runs are social, running holidays for singles are a big part of what we do too. Lots of people join us on their own and leave with a group of new friends.
So whether you call them running vacations, running retreats, running trips or trail running holidays, here are some of the places we think belong on your list.
Running Holidays in Europe
Europe is an incredible playground for runners. You can cross borders, climates and landscapes in just a few hours, and there are endless opportunities for trail running holidays in Europe.
Here are some of our favourites.
Italy: The Dolomites and Northern Italy
If you picture the perfect European trail running holiday, there’s a good chance you’re imagining Italy.
The Dolomites are about as spectacular as mountain running gets. Think huge limestone peaks, alpine meadows, dramatic ridgelines and trails that seem to have been designed specifically for running.
Our Dolomites trip is for runners who want to immerse themselves in the mountains rather than simply admire them from the bottom. You get big days on the trails, mountain scenery and that unmistakable feeling of being somewhere completely different.
But Italy isn’t all about high mountains.
Our Northern Italy running retreat takes us into a quieter corner of the country, around the foothills of the Prealps and the Prosecco hills. We stay at a working farmhouse retreat and explore everything from vineyards and stone villages to forests and the dramatic Grotte del Caglieron.
It’s a brilliant option if you want a running retreat in Europe that combines beautiful trails with fantastic food, wine and plenty of time to relax afterwards.
Best for: Mountain lovers, foodies, alpine scenery and runners looking for a classic European trail running adventure.
Georgia: The Caucasus Mountains
Georgia is one of those destinations where you arrive wondering why you haven’t been before. Our Georgia running holiday takes us into the Kazbegi region of the Caucasus, where ancient churches sit beneath enormous mountains and glacier-fed rivers cut through wide valleys.
We run around Gergeti Trinity Church and towards the Gergeti Glacier, explore the alpine meadows around Juta and venture into the spectacular Truso Valley.
And then there’s the food!
Georgian food is a huge part of the experience, with hearty meals and local wine waiting after days on the trails.
This is the kind of trail running holiday in Europe that feels genuinely adventurous without being inaccessible.
Best for: Mountain scenery, culture, great food and runners looking for somewhere a little different.
Spain: Seville, Mallorca, Tenerife and the Camino
Spain might just be one of the most versatile countries for running holidays.
Want sunshine and mountains? Mallorca.
Want volcanic landscapes? Tenerife.
Want culture, food and a more relaxing running retreat? Seville.
Want to run one of the most famous routes in the world? The Camino de Santiago.
Our Seville running and yoga retreat takes place in the countryside north of the city, in the Sierra de Aracena. Days combine guided trail running with yoga, incredible food and plenty of time to relax. It’s a completely different kind of running holiday, more of a reset than a training camp.
In Mallorca, we head into the Serra de Tramuntana, where mountain trails, ancient stone paths and Mediterranean views make for one of Europe's most beautiful trail running experiences. It’s the perfect combination of mountains and sea.
Then there’s Tenerife, where things get a little more dramatic. Our trip takes runners from the coast into the volcanic landscapes of Mount Teide, including a marathon-distance adventure towards the summit of Spain’s highest mountain. There’s also time for tapas, swimming and relaxing at the villa afterwards.
And finally, there’s the Camino de Santiago. Rather than walking the famous pilgrimage route, we run from Santiago de Compostela towards Finisterre and Muxia, the coast traditionally considered the “end of the world”. It’s a running adventure packed with history, culture, beautiful trails and the camaraderie that makes the Camino so special.
Best for: Sun, mountains, culture, food, coastal running and pretty much anyone who wants a fantastic running holiday in Europe.
Running Holidays in the UK
You absolutely don’t need to get on a plane to have an amazing running adventure.
The UK is packed with incredible trails, from mountain routes and wild coastlines to forests and rolling chalk hills. In fact, some of our favourite UK trail running holidays are right here at home.
Scotland: The West Highland Way
The West Highland Way is one of Britain's most iconic long-distance routes and running the whole thing in four days is quite an experience.
Over 150km, the route takes you from Milngavie towards Fort William through forests, glens, lochs, mountains and the wilderness of Rannoch Moor.
Our approach is very Run Weekends: run, camp, eat, sleep, repeat.
You don’t need to navigate, organise luggage transfers or work out where you’re eating each night. We take care of the logistics while you concentrate on the running.
And yes, we camp. There are lochs to swim in, campfires, group meals and plenty of time to enjoy the Scottish Highlands.
It’s one of our best trail running tours in the UK if you want a proper adventure.
Best for: Big UK adventures, long-distance runners, camping and anyone who wants to really escape into the Highlands.
Cornwall
Cornwall is made for coastal trail running. Think cliff paths, beaches, sea views and the kind of scenery that makes you stop halfway through a run to take a photo.
Our Cornwall Summer trip follows a Run-Camp-Run format, with the team transporting your gear between camps while you run from one beautiful location to the next. We camp on the coast, cook together and spend a few days exploring the Cornish trails as a group.
It’s a proper trail running holiday in the UK, but with a distinctly coastal feel.
Best for: Sea views, camping, coastal paths and runners who like their adventures with a bit of salt air.
Bamburgh
Bamburgh is one of those places that deserves far more attention from runners.
Huge beaches, dunes, coastal trails and Bamburgh Castle make this one of the most atmospheric places to run in the UK. There’s something pretty special about running along the beach with the castle sitting dramatically behind you.
It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a UK running weekend that feels like a proper escape without needing to fly anywhere.
Best for: Coastal running, beaches, quieter trails and beautiful scenery.
The South Downs Way
The South Downs Way is another fantastic option for a UK trail running holiday. Rolling chalk hills, open countryside, big views and the beautiful Sussex coastline make this one of the UK's most enjoyable long-distance running routes.
It’s also proof that you don’t need huge mountains to have a great trail running adventure. Sometimes the best running is simply getting out into the countryside and watching the landscape roll past.
Best for: Rolling trails, big views, countryside running and an adventure closer to home.
Wales: Pembrokeshire
For coastal trail running, Pembrokeshire is hard to beat.
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path takes you past rugged cliffs, beaches, coves and spectacular sea views, with the possibility of a swim at the end of a run.
Our Wales trip adds kayaking, yoga, campfires, good food and a cosy cottage with sea views and a hot tub. The running is social and relaxed, with several routes that can be shortened or skipped depending on how you feel.
That makes it a great option if you want a running retreat that feels like much more than just running.
Best for: Coastal adventures, sea swimming, kayaking, food and a relaxed running weekend.
The New Forest
Sometimes you just want to run. No massive climbs. No technical mountain terrain. No pressure. Just beautiful trails, woodland, heathland, wild ponies and a good group of people.
The New Forest is one of our most relaxed UK running weekends, with three days of running, cosy accommodation, pub meals and plenty of time to unwind. The trails are generally gentle and runnable, making this a brilliant choice for runners who want a social trail running holiday without the intensity of a mountain adventure.
And yes, you’ll probably see a pony or two.
Best for: Relaxed trail running, social running holidays and runners who like a good pub after a run.
Running Holidays Abroad: The Big Adventures
If you’re looking for something that feels properly different, this is where things get exciting.
Some running trips take you somewhere beautiful.
Others make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world.
Patagonia, Argentina
Patagonia has to be on any list of the world's best trail running destinations.
This is the land of glaciers, jagged peaks, enormous landscapes and some seriously impressive trails.
Our Patagonia running holiday is based around El Chaltén and El Calafate, with runs taking in famous routes such as Laguna de los Tres and Laguna Torre beneath the incredible Fitz Roy massif.
And the running is only part of the adventure.
There’s a visit to the Perito Moreno Glacier, traditional Argentine food, asado, Malbec and plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere of this extraordinary part of the world.
If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime running vacation, Patagonia is difficult to beat.
Best for: Huge landscapes, mountain running, glaciers, adventure and bucket-list travel.
Pakistan
Then there’s Pakistan! This is not your average running holiday.
Our Pakistan adventure heads deep into the Karakoram and Himalayan ranges, through remote valleys, mountain villages, alpine meadows and landscapes dominated by some of the highest peaks on earth.
There are trails, jeep tracks, suspension bridges, glacier-fed rivers, high-altitude hikes and nights spent beneath enormous mountains.
Some sections involve power hiking rather than running (because sometimes the mountain wins) but that’s exactly what makes this such a unique trail running adventure.
It’s remote, challenging and completely unforgettable.
Best for: Adventurers, big mountains, high-altitude landscapes and runners looking for something genuinely different.
Sri Lanka
If Pakistan is about big mountains, Sri Lanka is about variety.
Our Sri Lanka running holiday takes you through the island's beautiful central highlands, following sections of the famous Pekoe Trail through tea plantations, forests, rural communities and mountain landscapes.
You’ll also experience Kandy, local food, temples, traditional trains and plenty of the culture that makes Sri Lanka such an incredible destination.
And because this is Sri Lanka, there’s a pretty good chance you’ll be running through some very green scenery.
It’s a fantastic adventure running holiday if you want to combine trail miles with culture and travel.
Best for: Culture, food, tropical landscapes, tea plantations and runners who want a bit of everything.
Kenya
Kenya is famous for producing some of the world's greatest distance runners, so naturally it belongs on a list of the best running vacations.
But running in Kenya is about much more than training.
There are red-earth trails, high-altitude running, incredible landscapes and the chance to experience a completely different running culture. And, of course, Kenya gives you the opportunity to combine running with some of the most spectacular wildlife experiences on earth.
Imagine finishing a run and then heading out on safari. That's what we mean by an adventure running holiday.
Best for: Running culture, warm weather, wildlife and runners who want to combine their miles with an unforgettable trip.
Canada: The Canadian Rockies
If you like mountains, you’re going to like the Canadian Rockies.
Our Canadian Rockies trail running holiday takes us from Calgary through Kananaskis and Canmore before finishing in Banff.
Along the way there are turquoise lakes, pine forests, huge peaks and some seriously big running days.
The trip is point-to-point, with bags transported between stops, so you can concentrate on the running rather than carrying everything you own on your back. There are big mountain days, forest trails and a spectacular final run into Banff.
It’s classic North American mountain scenery and one of those trail running vacations where you’ll probably spend as much time looking around as you do looking at the trail.
Best for: Mountain running, big scenery, national parks and runners who want a proper North American adventure.
So, which running holiday is right for you?
Honestly? It depends what you’re looking for.
Want an easy escape? Try the New Forest, Seville or Northern Italy.
Want a UK trail running adventure? Go for the West Highland Way, Cornwall, Wales, Bamburgh or the South Downs Way.
Want mountains? The Dolomites, Georgia, Patagonia, Pakistan or the Canadian Rockies.
Want sunshine? Spain is a pretty safe bet: Seville, Mallorca or Tenerife.
Want culture? Try the Camino, Sri Lanka or Georgia.
Want something seriously adventurous? Pakistan, Patagonia, Kenya or the Canadian Rockies.
Want a running holiday for singles? Any of them.
That last one is important. You really don’t need to find a friend who runs to come on a Run Weekends trip. Lots of our guests arrive alone. You’ll have the running in common from the start, and by the end of the trip you’ll probably have a WhatsApp group full of people planning the next adventure. That’s one of the things we love most about running holidays.
Why choose a Run Weekends running holiday?
You could, of course, organise a running trip yourself.
You could spend hours researching routes, booking accommodation, working out transfers, figuring out where your bags are going, finding restaurants, downloading GPX files and trying to work out whether you’re actually going to enjoy the 30km route you’ve just committed yourself to.
Or you could just turn up and run.
That’s what we’re here for.
Run Weekends takes care of the routes, guides, accommodation, food, logistics and support, leaving you to enjoy the important bits: running somewhere amazing, meeting great people and having an adventure.
And we’re not a race.
Our trips are designed for runners of all abilities. We run together, take breaks, stop for photos, have a chat and adapt when we need to.
You don’t have to be the fastest.
You don’t have to be an ultra runner.
You don’t even have to know anyone before you arrive.
Bring your smile, not your speed.
Ready for your next running adventure?
Whether you’ve been searching for running holidays, trail running holidays, running vacations, running retreats, running holidays for singles, UK trail running holidays or running holidays abroad, hopefully this has given you a few ideas for where to head next.
Maybe your perfect running holiday is closer to home, exploring the South Downs or running along the Cornish coast.
Or maybe it’s time to go further:
To run beneath Fitz Roy in Patagonia.
To explore the Karakoram in Pakistan.
To follow the trails through Sri Lanka’s tea country.
To experience the mountains of Georgia.
To run towards the summit of Teide.
Or to finish a long day on the trails with the Canadian Rockies surrounding you.
Wherever you choose, the idea is the same:
Run somewhere new. Meet some brilliant people. See the world differently.
And come home already thinking about where you’re going next!
Explore all Run Weekends running holidays and find your next adventure.
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