For those seeking not only a physical challenge but also an epicurean feast for the eyes, marathons stretching from China’s Great Wall to America’s picturesque Highway 1 offer a captivating mix of both.
Around 17.6 million runners around the globe take part in marathons each year, according to RunRepeat. The modern marathon, born from the legendary run of Greek soldier Pheidippides from Marathon to Athens, remains a true testament to human endurance.
Every marathon has its distinct charm, its unique scenery, but some steal the spotlight for the extraordinary experiences they offer. This article leads you on a world tour of eleven of the most eye-catching marathon courses that will leave you breathless, both due to their physical rigor and their stunning landscapes.
Starting in Asia’s powerhouse, China, the Great Wall Marathon showcases mesmerizing views from atop the 2,000-year-old fortification. Covering over 5,164 steps, this tough marathon rewards runners with panoramic sights of surrounding villages and rolling green hills.
Anchoring in Europe, merge admiration with athletics by running the Rome Marathon, taking you through history as you dash by the UNESCO world heritage site Circus Maximus, the Roman Forum, and St. Peter’s Basilica.
The Midnight Sun Marathon held in the Arctic city of Tromso, Norway is a dream in motion. Here, the ‘night sky’ radiates in a permanent state of twilight, lit up by the Midnight Sun, a natural phenomenon that occurs in summer months.
Bringing the serenity of a Japanese Zen garden in every stride, the Kyoto Marathon delights runners with an exquisite display of blooming Cherry Blossoms (Sakura), famous shrines, and temples, capturing the essence of traditional Japan.
Leaving Asia, the African continent houses two enchanting marathons. First, the “Big Five” marathon in South Africa runs through the privately owned Entabeni Safari Conservancy. Runners get the unique chance to gaze at the infamous ‘Big Five’ game animals in their natural habitats.
Second, the Marrakesh Marathon located in Morocco delights runners with a course weaving through palm groves and orange orchards, against the backdrop of snow-capped Atlas Mountains, reflecting the city’s fascinating contrast of tradition and modernity.
Crossing oceans to land in South America, the Inca Trail Marathon to Machu Picchu in Peru is topographically challenging yet spectacular, offering glimpses into the ancient Incan Civilisation.
Lying in the land of endless opportunities, America hosts three extraordinarily exceptional Marathons. First, the Big Sur International Marathon on Highway One courses along the Pacific coastline, showering runners with breathtaking ocean views and towering redwoods.
Next, the New York City Marathon, one of the world’s largest and most popular, guides runners through five culturally diverse boroughs showcasing ‘The Big Apple’s’ energy and eclectic vibe.
Finally, the Pikes Peak Marathon in Colorado, often referred to as ‘America’s Ultimate Challenge’ due to the combination of altitude and gradient, offers runners the thrill of a lifetime.
Rounding off our list is the Southern Hemisphere’s Antarctica Ice Marathon. Runners brave negative freezing temperatures to experience remarkable ice towers, pressure ridges, and the distinctive fauna of this frost-bound region.
Every marathon, in essence, is a quest of self-discovery that each runner undertakes. When such a journey unfolds amid the exquisiteness of these global marquee locations, it elevates the experience from mere running to creating marathon memories of a lifetime. Choose your marathon and set on the voyage to embrace the world one step at a time.
Original Source: https://www.cntraveler.com/story/the-coolest-marathon-courses-around-the-globe-from-the-great-wall-of-china-to-highway-1
