If you’re a runner who craves a bit of adventure, this guide to the world’s most beautiful marathons is your starting line.
But which one is THE most beautiful marathon in the world?
Well, have a look at the options from this guide on the most beautiful marathons in the world, and let us know in the comments which takes your NO.1 spot!
From the vast African savannah teeming with wildlife, to the sun-drenched trails of coastal Australia and the rugged mountain paths of the Inca Trail in Peru.
Imagine traversing ancient steps along the Great Wall of China, with panoramic views stretching for miles. Or racing through Norway under the midnight sun, where daylight lingers in surreal beauty.
Each of these most beautiful marathons offers something truly exceptional.
Let's take a look!
(NOTE: dates mentioned are approximate and refer to general times of year, please check the official website for the accurate marathon date).
Sydney Marathon
Most Beautiful Marathon - Great Wall Marathon, China
Date:Â May
Now onto the most beautiful marathons, the marathons worth travelling for!Â
The Great Wall Marathon is considered one of the most challenging and unique marathons in the world.
The course includes steep ascents and descents along the ancient Great Wall of China, as well as paths through local villages and valleys.
Definitely not one for the faint-hearted! But you can’t get much more incredible than this, and certainly worth travelling for.Â
Jinshanling Section
You will traverse the rugged and scenic Jinshanling section of the Great Wall, offering breathtaking views and a demanding physical challenge.
Village Pathways
The course also takes you through charming local villages, providing a glimpse of rural Chinese life. Something a lot of people miss when just visiting the big cities on the East Coast.Â
Mountainous Terrain
The marathon's varied terrain includes both ancient stone steps and dirt paths, making it a true test of endurance.
Most Beautiful Marathon - Sydney Marathon, Australia
Date:Â August
The Sydney Marathon offers a spectacular course that highlights the natural beauty and iconic landmarks of Sydney.Â
Starting at Milsons Point and finishing at the Sydney Opera House, the race provides a memorable tour of the city.
Sydney Marathon Highlights
Sydney Harbour Bridge
Yes, that iconic bridge. You begin by crossing the Sydney Harbour Bridge, offering stunning views of the harbour and city skyline.
Botanic Gardens
The route winds through the Royal Botanic Gardens, providing a lush and beautiful segment of the marathon.
Opera House Finish
The race concludes at the Sydney Opera House, one of the most famous and picturesque finish lines in the world. If you don’t recognise it by name, you’d recognise it by sight for sure.Â
Most Beautiful Marathon - Big Five Marathon, South Africa
Date:Â June
The Big Five Marathon takes place in the Entabeni Game Reserve in South Africa.Â
This marathon offers the unique experience of running among the "Big Five" game animals: lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos. (But hopefully doesn’t involve you trying to run away from one of them..!).
Big Five Marathon Highlights
Savannah Terrain
The course traverses the diverse terrain of the African savannah, including sandy tracks and rocky paths.
Wildlife Encounters
You will have the chance to see some of Africa's most iconic wildlife in their natural habitat.
Spectacular Views
The route offers breathtaking views of the Waterberg mountain range and the surrounding bushveld.
Most Beautiful Marathon - Inca Trail Marathon, Peru
Date:Â May
The Inca Trail Marathon is a high-altitude race that follows the ancient Inca trail to Machu Picchu.Â
This iconic path is the destination for many an avid hiker or traveller alike. But, how about running it, instead?
This marathon is both physically demanding and culturally enriching, offering you a unique adventure through the Andes.
Inca Trail Marathon Highlights
Historical Ruins
The course passes by numerous Inca ruins, providing a fascinating historical context.
Stunning Scenery
You will be treated to breathtaking views of the Andean mountains and lush valleys.
Machu Picchu Finish
The race culminates at the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Most Beautiful Marathon - Midnight Sun Marathon, Norway
Date:Â June
Held in Tromsø, Norway, the Midnight Sun Marathon is a unique race that takes place under the natural phenomenon of the midnight sun.Â
Where the sun doesn't set for several weeks during summer!
Midnight Sun
Have a chance to experience the surreal beauty of running in broad daylight at midnight.
Arctic Scenery
The course offers stunning views of the Arctic landscape, including fjords and snow-capped mountains.
All of which you can see. Even at midnight!
Tromsø Charm
The race takes participants through the charming streets of Tromsø, with enthusiastic local support.
Most Beautiful Marathon - Two Oceans Marathon, South Africa
Date:Â April
The Two Oceans Marathon in Cape Town is known as the "world's most beautiful marathon."Â
The 56-kilometer ultra-marathon route offers breathtaking views of both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
Chapman's Peak
Enjoy stunning coastal views as they traverse the winding road of Chapman's Peak.
Constantia Nek
The route passes through the lush vineyards and forests of Constantia Nek.
Ocean Views
The course provides panoramic views of the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
Most Beautiful Marathon -
Big Sur International Marathon, California, USA
Date: April
The Big Sur International Marathon is renowned for its scenic route along California’s Pacific Coast Highway, offering runners dramatic ocean views and majestic cliffside scenery.
Big Sur Highlights
Pacific Coast Views
The route stretches along the iconic Highway 1, where runners can take in panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean with every stride.
Bixby Creek Bridge
One of the marathon’s most memorable landmarks, Bixby Creek Bridge offers stunning views and is a high point (both figuratively and literally!) of the race.
Coastal Redwoods
The course also winds through serene coastal redwood forests, offering a mix of ocean breezes and shaded paths.
Most Beautiful Marathon -
Kilimanjaro Marathon, Tanzania
Date: February
The Kilimanjaro Marathon offers an extraordinary setting at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, making it a once-in-a-lifetime race for any marathon enthusiast.
Kilimanjaro Highlights
Mount Kilimanjaro Views
With the snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro in the backdrop, this marathon provides inspiring views that few races can match.
African Villages
The route takes runners through charming Tanzanian villages, allowing for cultural immersion and enthusiastic support from local residents.
Lush Countryside
The course winds through lush, green landscapes and farmlands, offering diverse scenery from start to finish.
Most Beautiful Marathon -
Antarctic Ice Marathon, Antarctica
Date: December
The Antarctic Ice Marathon is one of the most extreme and remote marathons in the world, offering a truly unique experience in the heart of the Antarctic wilderness.
Antarctic Ice Marathon Highlights
Frozen Wilderness
Runners brave icy winds and sub-zero temperatures while navigating through pristine white landscapes, surrounded by towering glaciers.
Polar Silence
The isolation and silence of the Antarctic ice field create an otherworldly experience, with only the sound of crunching snow underfoot.
Endurance Challenge
With challenging weather and rugged terrain, this marathon tests mental and physical endurance to the fullest, providing a true adventure at the end of the earth.
So, where is the most beautiful marathon in the world?
The saying 'beauty is in the eye of the beholder' is true not only for people.
Whilst a run at midnight under the sun could be a dream come true for one, it might sound like a nightmare for another. Just like a high-altitude scenic marathon does to me..!
So, which one of these beautiful marathons gets your vote for the most beautiful marathon in the world?
Make sure to let us know in the comments!
And if you have any others we need to add to this list... Let us know!
Marathon running isn’t just about crossing a finish line.
It’s an invitation to explore some of the most beautiful, culturally rich, and remote places on Earth. All whilst challenging yourself to new heights.
Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a runner just dreaming of new horizons, these beautiful marathons offer more than a race. They offer an experience that stays with you long after you cross the finish line.
They offer an immersive experience, pairing the physical challenge of a marathon with iconic sights, local culture, and unique natural wonders.
From the thrill of running alongside wildlife in Africa to the awe of the midnight sun in Norway, each of these races blends incredible landscapes with unforgettable memories.
Which one will we see you at next year?
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