Let’s try something different? How to plan a runcation?

The term runcation is used interchangeably with racecation and destination race — it all means the same thing, a vacation based on a road race in a super fun and unique destination.

Planning a runcation takes a bit of thought and planning. Here are the steps to take of how to plan a runcation, either solo or with friends and family. Plus thirteen of the most thrilling race destinations in the world, described by the athletes themselves.

How to Plan a Runcation

Affiliate Disclosure: There are affiliate links throughout this post. This means if you click on a link and purchase a product through that link, then I will receive a small commission for the referral. And that is kinda cool.

Most of us are becoming more and more health-conscious, so what better way to stay healthy on vacation than to lace up our sneakers and run a race?

And you can do this anywhere in the world, from Australia to Jamaica, Tokyo to Brussels, Ethiopia to Thailand, or the oldest city in the United States. Pick your destination and get on board. After the race, for your recovery, see the Northern Lights, tour the Hagia Sophia, scuba The Great Barrier Reef, or sip on a big Bordeaux in a French winery or a craft beer in Boulder.

The Benefits of Running on Vacation.

  • Take a break from the family and the noise (I don’t mean this in a bad way).
  • Explore a new place on foot.
  • Quality “me” time.
  • Maintain fitness while traveling.
  • Get those feel-good endorphins flowing.
  • Burn off calories from the night before.

What is a Runcation?

A runcation is a vacation centered around competing in a road race or adventure race. It’s like a destination road race.

Who Plans a Runcation?

You don’t have to be an elite runner or super speedy runner to plan a runcation. It is the perfect motivation to get into running. Pick a destination and begin training.

It’s not all about the race; it’s about getting to the race. The journey is what matters the most.

Planning a runcation with friends provides you with accountability. They will push you and motivate you, not only during the race. They will hold you accountable for those 6 AM training runs, even when it’s foggy and cold and you don’t wanna.

Or run it solo. If you are the self-motivated type (not me), a solo race-cation is possible. Set a goal and go for it.

Marathon runners running  in the morning.
Running vacation destination.
How to Plan a Runcation.

Why Plan a Runcation?

  1. Training for a race is a fun way to maintain health and fitness.  
  2. Plus, if you have a race planned, you are inspired and motivated to prepare. 
  3. A runcation is a bonding experience with friends or family. It’s the perfect girl’s trip, family trip, or experience with your significant other.
  4. You get to see cool sites as many of these races take place at an extraordinary locating.  
  5. And you may get to run on the terrain you have never experienced before.
  6. Speed up your recovery by exploring the city.
  7. Indulge in the local food, which may be my favorite reason. However, if the cuisine is unique and new to you, you may want to wait until after the race to indulge.
  8. It’s exciting and gives you something to strive for a look forward to.
  9. Growth occurs when you step out of your comfort zone.
  10. “One of the best parts of running is looking forward to that epic runcation, where all that hard work pays off. “Kristen Czudak from Yonderlust Ramblings.

Three Steps: How to Plan a Runcation.

Step 1: Discuss the idea of a runcation with your friends.

Talk it up — warm your friends up by providing them with the above listed compelling reasons to go on a runcation. Try to commit early to a specific race location and begin planning your runcation. Once you sign up, you are all in. Plus, signing up early will save you money.

Step 2: Determine what type of race you want to complete—a 5K, 10K, 15K, half marathon, or a full marathon.

And what is your goal of the race? PR or just for fun?

Here are a few unique ideas to talk over with your running mates when beginning to plan a runcation.

  • Sign up for a road race catered to women. It’s like a girl’s trip kicked up a notch—for example, Susan B Komen or the Austrian Women’s Run in Vienna.
  • An adventure race, now these are a blast.
  • Or a trail race.
  • A city race with loud music or a run through mountains and creeks.
  • A relay race where you all work together to complete a full marathon.
  • Run for beer, wine, or donuts.
  • Here is a website dedicated to running cruises and lists a running cruise in Hawaii and Alaska in 2022.  
  • Or run through a famous landmark such as the Great Wall of China 

Active.com lists all types of events worldwide with links to each race website for easy signup.

New York, USA - November 4, 2018: Annual TCS New York City Marathon.
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Step 3: The logistics of planning a runcation.

Book a hotel close to the race location.  

Trust me on this; you want to be nearby the morning of the race. Often, these races start very early in the morning. If you are close, you can sleep a little longer. And you don’t have to be concerned with traffic or parking before a busy race. Many races have headquarters at particular resorts or hotels where your lodging will be on-site, eliminating any hassles. And pick a place to stay with a pool or a spa, which is fantastic for recovery.

Consider the day of the week of the race when planning your runcation and making travel arrangements.

Races are usually scheduled on a Saturday or a Sunday — choose wisely. If you plan on running a marathon on a Sunday, consider your plans for Monday, your recovery day.

Avoid flying or being cooped up in a car for long periods the day of, or the day after a long race. Your muscles will revolt. Instead, plan for a day or two of exploring your destination.

If you have to work on Monday, plan your race day for Saturday, so you have a day of downtime and recovery.

And if you are from Florida and are running an adventure race in Breckenridge 10,000 feet above sea level, give yourself time to adjust to the altitude, or you will suffer.

Step 4: Now the fun part — plan what to do when you are not running during your runcation.

Plan out a soft itinerary for your downtime. Don’t overbook. Allow time to relax. Spend your days exploring the sites, eating the local cuisine, enjoying me-time or time with your friends, go hiking, or sip margaritas poolside.

What to Pack for Your Runcation.

A good pair of running shoes is critical for training and racing. Do your research and know what you need and what you don’t. You may have to fork out a few extra bucks for good shoes, but the decision to spend money on your feet and joints will be worth it. We all have different running styles and needs when it comes to running shoes.

I ran in Nike Pegasus for years; I may have had the Nike Pegasus 1 when I started running as a kid.

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 Running Shoe White with Black Swoosh

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 White with Psychic Purple Swoosh

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Ocean Cube with Pure Platinum Swoosh

“The swoosh symbolizes the sound of speed, movement, power, and motivation.”

Brandon from Shoe Mastery

Pack a comfortable headband, dry-wicking socks, tank top, the best Nike running shorts, or tights if it’s going to be cold. For marathon runners, pack body glide to prevent chafing. And don’t forget your nip guards, way better than tape, so I hear.

Here are a few other items to consider packing for your racecation.

  • Fitness tracker.
  • Cliff bars/energy gel.
  • Airpods.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Nuun (electrolyte drink tablets).

Sun Bum Premium Day Tripper Includes Sunscreen Lotion and Lip Balm plus Hydrating Cool Down Lotion

Fitbit Charge 3 Fitness Activity Tracker

Apple AirPods Pro Especially if you are going it alone.

Larabar Gluten Free Power Bar

Nuun Vitamin and Electrolyte Drink Tablets

Gatorade Endurance Energy Gel

13 Top Runcations in the World with Plenty To Do When You Aren’t Running.

St. Augustine Half Marathon.

Ran by me!

The St. Augustine Half Marathon, held in the nation’s oldest city, occurs in mid-November when Florida’s climate is perfect — not too cold and never too hot.  

The course takes you on tour through history, beginning with Castillo de San Marcos, the Spanish fortress built to protect the town and standing strong after over 300 years. Then run up and over the Bridge of Lions, down A1A past crowds of cheering fans with signs and songs. Then up and over the Bridge of Lions again for the finale.   

Bridge of Lions, St. Augustine, Florida.
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The course is mainly flat, beginner-friendly, prime for a personal best for advanced runners, and open for three hours and fifteen minutes for the walkers.

At the finish line, and after you receive your medal, indulge in paella from the Columbia Restaurant and the tastiest ice-cold beer ever.

St. Augustine Half Marathon Runners.  
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Recover by strolling the city’s cobblestone streets — Aviles Street is the oldest street in the oldest city in the USA. Many options await, including touring four museums or browsing the local artisans selling blown and stained glass, paintings, sculptures, woodworks, and custom jewelry. Hop on a horse-drawn carriage or take a walking ghost tour. And don’t miss Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum; the kids (and adults) love it. 

Austrian Women’s Run in Vienna.

Submitted by Martina from PlacesofJuma.

One of the most amazing events for a race was the Austrian Women’s Run in Vienna. It has been held for 26 years and now attracts over 30,000 female runners – amazing women worldwide, which makes it the biggest race for women in Europe. 

This fantastic event takes place once a year, usually in mid-May. It’s the perfect time of the year because usually in May there is great weather in Austria. The route is beautiful and a real highlight: it starts at the big Ernst Happel Stadium and leads through the Prater Allee, past the Lusthaus to the famous Vienna Prater amusement park. 

When registering, you can choose between 5 kilometers or 10 kilometers. Both circuits are flat, with the 5k course ideally suited for beginners. And there is no time limit. Everyone, whether beginner, intermediate or advanced runners, can participate. The course is pleasantly flat and mostly leads through a lovely shaded avenue. I personally loved the atmosphere of the race. 

At the beginning, you will get a bag with gifts and a casual running shirt. At the finish line, every runner gets a rose and a medal. Afterward there is a nice party with live music and a barbecue. 

The atmosphere is relaxed and easy-going – being there is everything! 

If you are ever in Vienna, you should definitely combine this women’s race with sightseeing. There are so many things to do in Vienna. The Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Hofburg, the Vienna Prater, and the Belvedere are definitely worth seeing.

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Belvedere Palace in Vienna - Austria
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The Dopey Challenge at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida.

Completed by Debbie Fettback from World Adventurists.

My favorite runcation destination is Disney World in Orlando, Florida. With several themed race series throughout the year, there are options for runners of all abilities, from beginners to advanced. 

Of the Disney challenges, my favorite is the Dopey Challenge during Marathon weekend, held every January. During Marathon weekend, you can opt to run a single race, the goofy challenge (Half Marathon plus Marathon), or the Dopey Challenge (5K, 10K, Half-Marathon, and Marathon) — this makes the Disney races accessible to all runners. 

The Dopey Challenge, Disney World Orlando, Florida.
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What I love about Disney races is the magic. While you can try for a personal best, it is hard to resist stopping for photo opportunities with all your favorite characters. Running down Main Street in the dark while the castle is all lit up and sparkling and the electricity of spectators cheering is one of my favorite moments. 

In January, one morning can be a comfortable start temperature, and the next morning you’re wrapped in an emergency blanket trying to stay warm. By the end of the Marathon, it can be pretty hot out, and volunteers meet you with cold cloths after the finish line. 

The routes are mostly flat with some hills for good measure. After the races, I love to have fun at one of the Disney parks until closing and then get up early the next morning and do the next race. After all, it is called the Dopey Challenge! 

There’s also nothing wrong with pool time to relax. You could also take a day trip to the Kennedy Space Center or a rival theme park, Universal Orlando. There are so many options to enjoy the rest of the day after a race. 

Istanbul Marathon.

Ran by Faheem Suliman from capetocasa.

The Istanbul Marathon combines all the good things you would want in an amazing runcation: an epic location, good organization, and easy registration. 

The Istanbul Marathon, like Christmas, only comes once a year. As the solitary premium running event of the year, the City of Istanbul goes all out for this 42km race run in both the European and Asian sides of the city. All roads are closed, including the iconic Bosphorus Bridge — this is the only day of the year when you can run along this amazing bridge and feast your eyes on its breathtaking views.

ISTANBUL, TURKEY - NOVEMBER 08, 2020: Athletes running in 42. Istanbul marathon which includes two continents in one race.
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The race is usually in early November, the beginning of Winter, which is ideal running weather — not hot and not that cold either.

The route is a mix of hills and flats, so you would want to be prepared for everything. The route covers many historical and popular landmarks in Istanbul. Running Istanbul Marathon gives you the opportunity to experience Istanbul without the regular hustle and bustle of this huge city.

Registration is open to everyone, register online, pay the fee, and collect your race number. It’s as easy as that. The race is well-suited for both beginners and professional runners. However, they start opening the roads to traffic after 5 hours, making things a bit chaotic for slower runners. 

Once you’re done with the Marathon, you can visit the ancient Hagia Sophia, go on a Bosphorus cruise or enjoy a tender Turkish kebap anywhere in the city.

agia Sophia, the monument most famous of Istanbul - Turkey.
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Great Ethiopian Run.

Ran by Claudia Tavani at My Adventures Across The World.

Only a few foreigners take part in the Great Ethiopian Run each year. The race takes place each November in Addis Ababa, the capital of the country. It is an absolutely exhilarating experience, from the moment you actually land in town to the post-race celebrations. 

Addis Ababa is located at 2300 meters above sea level – so, for the vast majority of amateur runners, the altitude will pose a challenge during the 10 km run, which sees several steep ascents on mostly good terrain. But the enormous consensus the race receives (more than 40,000 people participated in 2019) and incredible, festive, joyous atmosphere will be enough to keep you going. 

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – November 24: The 13th Edition Great Ethiopian Run, the biggest road race in Africa, and the winner of the inaugural AIMS Social Award, took place on the 24th of November 2013in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Over over 37,000 runners, including 500 elite participated in this race.  Runcation Destination.
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The race is for just about anyone – some take it seriously, and run from minute one; others see it more like a walk and an opportunity to spend time with their friends. Either way, it’s a great thing to do. 

Curating the race is a team of celebrity runners – the most important one, legendary Ethiopian marathon runner Haile Gebrselassie. The race is actually a fundraiser, so you will be running with a purpose – raising funds and awareness for the most disadvantaged groups in Ethiopia. 

Before and after the race, international participants are invited to hosted events that are great to mingle – and to take a selfie with Haile. 

Addis Ababa isn’t exactly a beautiful city, but the race is a good opportunity to check out the city. The most interesting museum in town is the National Museum of Ethiopia, where you can see Lucy, the famous hominid skeleton found in the Danakil Depression. 

The Polar Circle Marathon and Half Marathon.

Ran by Kristen Czudak from Yonderlust Ramblings.

One of the best parts of running is looking forward to that epic runcation, where all that hard work pays off. 

Some of the best runcations are found in the most extreme corners of the globe. That’s the case with the Polar Circle Marathon and Half, held annually in October in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland. This destination race is just one of a handful of invigorating outdoor experiences in Kangerlussuaq, and it’s a race that’s hard to top as far as scenery goes. Kangerlussuaq is located on Greenland’s southwestern coast. Lodging options consist of hotels, lodges, and renovated old military barracks from the WWII era. 

Meals, transportation, and accommodations are all expertly handled for race participants. 

Aside from race day, plenty of sightseeing opportunities are offered, including Northern Lights tours, tundra tours, and glacier tours. Exploring the town of Kangerlussuaq also provides chances to witness traditional Polar life still on display, as well as sample cuisine including reindeer, musk oxen, and exotic seafood. 

reenland glacier melting: a consequence of global warming.
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With all these offerings, nothing beats race day of the Polar Circle Marathon and Half.

What makes this race unforgettable is the first couple miles of the course, which are run over the 2nd largest ice cap in the world! An endless stretch of starkly beautiful ice is the scene for every runner’s chilly start.

f you’ve ever wanted to know what it’s like to run with spikes, this is a run to find out, whether you’re an intermediate or advanced runner. After traversing Greenland’s ice cap, the course continues through the tundra, passing Russell Glacier, onlooking wildlife, polar lakes, and finishing in the heart of Kangerlussuaq’s “downtown.” It’s a quaint finish, but it brings out all the locals who give their all cheering runners.

Laguna Phuket Marathon.

Submitted by Jeannie from The Running Baker.

One of my favorite races that I did abroad is the Laguna Phuket Marathon because I love going to beaches and eating Thai food.  

The race is held in Phuket, Thailand, usually around June. It is a perfect place – runcation for friends and families because kids can participate as well, from a 2km kids run to 5k, 10.5k half, and full marathon distances.

Runner holding a winning medal.
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I only run the 10.5km distance because I have an upcoming Ironman race and also still nursing my shin splints. The terrain is mostly flat and without any shade. It is in the afternoon so expect it is still hot. 

The half and full marathons are held the following day early morning.

Beginners can definitely run the 5k and 10.5km distances, and it is more fun to do it with a group of friends or family, just like how I did it. The pasta party is something to look forward to before the race.

If you like to explore Thailand, visit the temples, do island hopping, and try Thai food — this is a place to run and relax at the same time. Although I must give a heads up that it will be hot and humid with a possible chance of rain.

Maya Bay, Phuket.
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Enjoy the gorgeous beaches after your race. Visit Maya Bay, where Leonardo Di Caprio’s movie The Beach was shot, the famous James Bond Island, named after the movie of James Bond:The Man With The Golden Gun(1974) in Phang Nga Bay, and spend a few days more in Krabi island.

Phuket, Thailand.
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Also, let’s not forget to get an authentic Thai massage to complete your relaxing stay in Thailand. 

If you are into bargain shopping and street foods, add a few more days to visit Bangkok and other nearby islands that are also gorgeous and less visited by tourists.

The Laguna Phuket Marathon is the perfect getaway to run and relax at the same time.

Jeannie also wrote about The Chicago Marathon. Read all about this incredibly windy experience here.

Tokyo Marathon.

Ran by Jackie and Justin from Life Of Doing.

Tokyo Marathon needs to be on your next runcation. This international road running race takes place in the heart of Tokyo, Japan. As one of the prestigious World Marathon Majors (along with Boston and Berlin), it occurs annually from February to March. 

It’s not easy to register as participants need to enter a lottery to receive a spot for the 10k, half marathon, and full marathon distance. We participated in the full marathon course. It’s flat, so it’s perfect for beginner runners. 

Runners start at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government office, pass by various landmarks such as Asakusa Kaminarimon, Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, and finish at the Tokyo Station. During the race, expect cold and crisp weather since it’s wintertime. Wearing long sleeves and pants is helpful. 

A memorable part of the Tokyo Marathon is how organized everything is. From the email communications to bib pick up at the Expo, to the course itself, the experience is easy to follow and stress-free. 

During the race, one of the best parts is seeing enthusiastic spectators, cheering squads, and volunteers shouting encouraging phrases to the runners. Seeing someone dressed up in an adorable costume and giving high-fives is also a fun experience. 

Crossing the finish line is a major highlight. After running for 26.2 miles (42 kilometers) and receiving the finisher’s medal, the runner’s high continues for the rest of the day. 

We recommended having a few days to explore the city after the run. Check out the fun and cool things to do in Tokyo. Top attractions include crossing the famous Shibuya street, seeing the eclectic show at the Robot Restaurant, and visiting Odaiba to see interactive art at Team Borderless, a life-size Gundam statue, or a mini Statue of Liberty. Cultural experiences include watching a sumo wrestling tournament or visiting the numerous temples and shrines such as Meiji Shrine.

Enjoy the time in Tokyo!

Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo
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The Kepler Challenge – Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

Submitted by Alice from Alice Adventuring.

Ever fancied running through mountains in paradise? I thought so.

The Kepler Challenge is New Zealand’s premier mountain running event. It is a 60km / 38mi ultra-marathon circuit that takes place on the Kepler Track (one of New Zealand’s “Great Walks”) in Fiordland National Park. This area of New Zealand is known for its absolutely jaw-dropping scenery and is a must-visit!

Tickets for the Kepler Challenge are strictly limited to 450 competitors, and every year tickets sell out within minutes of entries opening – the race is extremely popular with locals and international visitors alike.

Kepler Track Trail Runner.
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The event is held in early December, which is the start of the southern hemisphere summer. But don’t be fooled, in New Zealand ‘summer’ could mean anything from burning sunshine, to torrential rain and snow on the alpine sections. You must be prepared for a challenge. The terrain is a mixture of forest and exposed alpine sections, with gravel and tree roots underfoot. The overall elevation gain is 1350m / 4430ft.

New Zealand is an amazing place for outdoor lovers to visit, and Fiordland is one of the best spots in the entire country. The hiking on offer is phenomenal. Just check out this amazing view from Gertrude Saddle.

If hiking isn’t your thing, you can also take a cruise or kayak on Milford Sound, and visit the glow worms (like fireflies, but underground in caves).

So what are you waiting for? Check it out!

Kepler Track Runners.
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BOLDERBoulder 10k.

Ran by Kiersten from Hiking In My Flip Flops.

Boulder, Colorado, home of the University of Colorado, and the unique mountain formations known as the Flatirons, draws some extra attention every year on Memorial Day. Runners take to the streets throughout downtown Boulder in the BOLDERBoulder 10k. 

The race has grown to over 50,000 participants each year, becoming one of the largest running events in the world. The late May race falls within those perfect Colorado weather days when the snow is done for the year, but the summer heat is yet to arrive. 

At an elevation of just over 5,300 feet, the high desert climate is easily handled by participants coming in from even the lowest elevations. 

The race impressively caters to runners of every age and skill level, making it every bit as fun as it is competitive. Serious runners take off in early morning waves. Then families, new runners, and walkers set off a bit later – often in costume. 

Entertainment is provided throughout the course, featuring slip-n-slides, local bands, and even treats to munch on (like marshmallows, Doritos, and cupcakes). The race finishes at the CU’s Folsom Field, where runners make their way into the stadium to watch some of the world’s top athletes race in the International Pro Team Challenge.

The event ends with a Memorial Day tribute that includes a 21-gun salute and a flyover by the Colorado Air National Guard. 

While in town for the weekend, find many runners hiking any one of Boulder’s 150 miles of hiking trails, strolling through the shops and restaurants that line historic Pearl Street Mall, or tasting one of many local craft beers. 

Hands Hold Beverage Beers Bottle Cheers.
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Chiang Mai Marathon.

Deb from The Visa Project.

While there are so many things to do in Chiang Mai for tourists and digital nomads, one of the most important events that happens is the Chiang Mai Marathon every year during the Christmas holiday. 

The Marathon’s start/finish line is at the Tha Pae Gate, one of Chiang Mai’s most well-known landmarks. It loops around the Old City moat to run past Chiang Mai Hospital and circles the airport and the zoo, mostly the city area, before charting North & back to finish at the Tha Phae Gate. There are regular water stations & first aid stations. 

What makes Chiang Marathon so popular is a combination of many factors. The run is really enjoyable thanks to an almost perfect temperature of 12 to 18 degrees celsius and flat terrain. That is what makes it good for beginners, intermediates, and advanced runners alike. When you finish the race, you can have a big breakfast at one of the food stalls. 

And don’t just plan to go to Chiang Mai for the Marathon. Plan for at least 3–4 days to explore everything this 720-year old city has to offer. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, located in Doi Suthep National Park, is one of the holiest shrines in Thailand that symbolizes Chiang Mai. 

Love bird-watching? Head to the serene Doi Inthanon National Park. And finally, don’t miss the old city temples like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh. 

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand.
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The Borobudur Temple Marathon

Kaylini from The Curated Travelist.

Indonesia might not be anyone’s first inkling for a runner’s destination, but this race has become a favorite to many in the running community. The Borobudur Temple marathon is located in the city of Yogyakarta, Java. Just a short flight from the capital city of Jakarta or Bali. 

The Borobudur marathon takes place at the largest Buddhist monument in the world, Borobudur Temple, which is high on the bucket list for many travelers. 

The scenic course allows runners to sight humble villages, local farms, and rice fields along the race track. The fresh mountainous air and tree-lined areas of the track certainly aid the tropical heat and humidity that strikes once you set foot in Indonesia. 

As there are only two seasons in Indonesia, wet and dry season, the race takes place at the end of the dry season in November. The terrain is mainly road and relatively flat with a max gain of only 148 m. 

If you aren’t up to embracing the full Marathon, there are also categories for the half-marathon, 10K, and even a 5K friendship run. 

Apart from visiting for the race, Yogyakarta has plenty on offer to make it worth extending your stay. Notable mentions are also visiting Prambanan temple, a 4X4 drive to Merapi Volcano, shopping the local night markets on Jalan Malioboro in the center, or taking a trip to the stunning Parangtritis beach. 

The cultural immersion, warm Javanese hospitality, and unique way of seeing this city are some of the reasons why this race is flocked to by runners from around the world.

The dawn glow of the amber and golden light creeping in perfectly illuminates the blanket of warm foggy clouds that makes the Borobudur sunrise experience all the more special in the silence of daybreak.

Kaylini from The Curated Travelist
Sunrise at Borobudur temple and buddha statue.
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Brussels Marathon and Half Marathon.

Ran by Caroline from Veggie Wayfarer.

One of the most fun races in all of Europe is the (half) marathon in Brussels held in October. The city holds a 20K in May, but this race is usually sold out within days. On race day, the roads are extremely crowded, and chances are high you will miss the beautiful architecture and lush nature the city has to offer. This is not the case in October when the race will take you through the heart of the city, over the large (flat) boulevards, past the courthouse, and into the rolling hills of the Bois de La Cambre forest. 

The race is well organized, provisions are foreseen every few kilometers along the track, and the route is a great mixture of flat paved surface and rolling (unpaved) hills. 

Be sure to bring a rain jacket, though, because October does see a higher amount of rain than other months.

Why not combine your race with a weekend in Brussels?

The city has plenty to offer any traveler! It contains four stunning UNESCO sites and a Grand Place adorned with ornately decorated gold guide houses, over 80 art installations in the metro, and a bar that boasts no less than 3000 types of beer. The city is extremely walkable, though sensible shoes are advised because of the cobblestones in the historic old town.

Brussels Atomium.
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All rights reserved to the owner of the image (@veggiewayfarer).

The Spartan Race in Breckenridge, Colorado.

Completed by me!

Remember when I said when planning your runcation that if you are traveling from sea level in Florida to 10,000 feet above sea level in Breckenridge, Colorado, you need to account for time to adjust to the altitude? Yes, that was me. What was I thinking? Going from the sunny beaches of Florida to the snow-covered mountains of Breckenridge and completing an adventure race, by myself?

You know what they say; you only grow once you step outside of your comfort zone.   

Spartan Race Breckenridge.
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The Spartan Race is an obstacle race with events worldwide for all athletes, with distances ranging from 5K to Marathon. Spartan Race Breckenridge begins at nearly 10,000 feet above sea level and goes up from there. Obstacles include crawling under barbed wire through the snow, scaling walls, carrying logs through the mountain trails, swinging across monkey bars, and sticking the spear (not kidding, and no, I did NOT stick the spear). Finish the course with a rope climb and jumping through fire. 

Spartan Race, Breckenridge.
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Stroll through the town of Breckenridge during your recovery. Refuel on trout and crepes, and sip the local brews.  

And there’s so much more.

Breckenridge is known for powdery snow that attracts snow skiers and snowboarders from around the world. But, it is an outdoor enthusiast playground full of activities beyond the slopes, including dog sledding, tubing, hiking, fly fishing, and white water rafting.

How to Plan a Runcation

Experience a runcation anywhere in the world, from Tokyo to Jamaica, Ethiopia to Thailand, or the oldest city in the United States. Pick your destination and start planning your runcation.

Recover from the race while exploring the amazing world we live in — see the Northern Lights, tour the Hagia Sophia, scuba The Great Barrier Reef, or sip on a big Bordeaux in a French winery.

Where are you going for your next runcation? And do you have any tips to add to the process of how to plan a runcation?

Traveling Party of Four Signature