Fancy switching up your running scenery? Want a spot of sunshine during your training rather than rain? Pack that kit and head off on a running holiday!

After all, running is the best way to get your bearings in the area you’re staying in, whether it’s exploring the local trails or hitting the town’s streets and seeing what gems you can spot. If you’re up and out early enough, you’ll beat the crowds and get to see a place at its most authentic too.

Get ready to jog down seafront promenades feeling the wind in your hair, soak up sunrise or sunset views from some of the most beautiful vantage points. Or why not take on a race or event while you’re away? Medal Monday never looked so good!

Here are a just a few spots you should add to your running destination bucket list:

Lanzarote

This captivating Canary island offers a unique and surreal backdrop for runners. The rugged volcanic terrain, shaped by past eruptions, presents a challenging yet exhilarating experience. As you take on the trails, the lunar-like landscapes with blackened lava fields, contrast against the azure sky, creating a visually stunning route – one to add to the socials, for sure!

The island's year-round, pleasant climate, with mild temperatures and refreshing sea breezes, creates the ideal environment for any outdoor activities. Whether you opt for coastal routes with panoramic sea views or choose to explore the Timanfaya National Park's otherworldly vistas, running in Lanzarote becomes a perfect blend of exercise and breathtaking natural beauty.

Not-to-be-missed event:

What: IRONMAN Lanzarote
When: 17 May 2025
Where: Swim starts at Playa Grande, Puerto del Carmen

Majorca

Get your Mediterranean fix in Majorca, the largest of Spain's Balearic Islands. Coastal paths beckon with panoramic views of turquoise waters, while lush inland trails traverse olive groves and charming villages. The island's varied terrain, from fast-and-flat promenades to gentle slopes and challenging mountain paths like the Tramuntana mountain range, caters to all running preferences.

With a climate boasting more than 300 days of sunshine annually, you can pretty much guarantee warm weather and cool sea breezes. The capital, Palma, is the prime place to enjoy a spot of ‘sightrunning’ too.

Not-to-be-missed events:

What: Palma marathon, half marathon and 9k
When: 19 October 2025
Where: Parc de la Mar, Palma

Costa Brava

More of a trail fan? Head to this costa for your fix of amazing off-road routes and stunning scenery. This rugged coastline is adorned with hidden coves and pristine beaches, so it’s breathtaking alright! Trails wind through pine forests, medieval villages and vineyards, providing a diverse and captivating landscape.

You can bank on the Mediterranean climate and refreshing sea breezes too, so every run’s a rejuvenating experience. Why not explore the historic city of Girona or follow the iconic Camí de Ronda, a coastal path dotted with secluded hidden gems? The Costa Brava's fusion of natural beauty and Catalan charm makes it an invigorating and memorable running destination.

Not-to-be-missed events:

What: Costa Brava Stage Run
When: 25-27 April 2025
Where: Blanes

Madeira

Ready for challenging trails and epic vistas? You’ve come to the right place. The island's mountainous terrain, carved by volcanic activity, makes a dynamic playground. The iconic levada trails, ancient water channels converted into paths, wind through laurel forests and along rocky cliffs. Talk about an immersive running experience!

With a mild climate year-round, you can enjoy the diverse landscapes from coastal roads to mountainous peaks whatever time of year you visit. The ever-changing scenery, featuring dramatic cliffs, botanical gardens and picturesque villages, transforms each run into a captivating exploration of Madeira's natural wonders. Trail shoes at the ready!

Not-to-be-missed events:

What: Funchal marathon, half marathon and 10k
When: Every January
Where: Rua do Gorgulho, Funchal

HANDY HINTS AND TIPS:

• If you’re away for a Saturday, check if there’s a parkrun taking place locally. It’s a great way to explore a lovely green space and get chatting to like-minded runners.
• Before you go, search for events or races that might be on in the area. You’ll be able to run on signposted and closed-off routes, and even bag some bling at the end of it.
• If you’re going somewhere hot, try to run early in the morning or in the evening when the sun’s gone down, avoiding the hottest part of the day. And don’t forget to wear SPF!
• Follow Strava routes on your watch or plot out a route so you don’t get lost. Failing, that, there’s always Google Maps!

Ready to run in the sun? Us too!