Marathon season is well under way across Europe, with thousands of people running for charity or extending their passion for endurance running. As a great way to get fit, whilst raising money, long distance running is perfect for those looking to incorporate health and fitness into their lifestyle.
So if you want to compete in 2013, you may want to keep your training and preparation exciting with a trip abroad. Warm weather training and a different location will provide fresh impetus, encouragement and fulfilment. Here is a guide to Europe’s best distance running events in 2012 and 2013.
Start With a 10k race to build stamina - Palma de Majorca, 21st October 2012
Majorca is renowned as a winter training base for cyclists and runners, with its hilly countryside and warm weather conditions perfect for training. The Palma De Majorca run in October 2012 is suitable for amateur runners, with the fun atmosphere and warm autumn weather perfect for building stamina. The course takes you through the city of Palma, with the city’s cathedral and palm tree promenades providing a magnificent backdrop for the race. The route continues through the city and along the bay of Palma, so entrants are never short of a view.
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Malta is small in size, but still offers a fantastic landscape to explore with a long distance run. The established and well recognised Land Rover marathon event is held every year in Malta. Since the first marathon in 1986, there has seen a steady increase in numbers each year. The race starts in Mdina each February, with the route passing through major Malta towns like Rabat and Ta’ Qali. Before the finish line in Sliema, there is a good flat run of 5km that has stunning views of Malta’s Grand Harbour.
Where to Relax and Recuperate
The Hotel Nautic in neighbouring Ca’n Pastilla offers visitors on site spa facilities that are perfect for preparation and after care. Visit here more information on holidays to Majorca.
How to Enter
To find out more on entry to the Palma de Majorca 2012 Run, visit the organiser’s website.
Step Up a Gear with a Half Marathon – Lisbon, Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon, Sept 30th 2012
The Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon is a US-based phenomenon that is also making its way to Europe, stopping in Portugal’s capital Lisbon on Sunday 30th September 2012. You can apply to join in even if you’re relatively new to running, and a shorter mini route is available for younger or less able competitors the day before. Experienced runners might like to apply for the elite race on the Sunday, which is an 18km stretch alongside the River Tagus. The really unique thing about Rock ‘n’ Roll events is that the entrants are spurred on by live music from local bands along the way, so there’s always something to keep you motivated as you go. Afterwards you can enjoy a post-run concert with your supporters, if you have any energy left!
Where to Relax and Recuperate
Recharge your batteries with a well-deserved rest at the Corinthia Lisboa’s spa and wellness centre, with facilities including a Relaxation Room and dedicated gym staff to help soothe any post-marathon twinges. Visit here for more information on holidays to Lisbon.
How to Enter
To find out more about the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon and its other city destinations, visit the official website.
A Testing Full Marathon – Malta, 23rdDecember 2012 or 24th February 2013
Malta is small in size, but still offers a fantastic landscape to explore with a long distance run. The established and well recognised Land Rover marathon event is held every year in Malta. Since the first marathon in 1986, there has seen a steady increase in numbers each year. The race starts in Mdina each February, with the route passing through major Malta towns like Rabat and Ta’ Qali. Before the finish line in Sliema, there is a good flat run of 5km that has stunning views of Malta’s Grand Harbour.
Where to Relax and Recuperate
Treat your tired muscles to a good session of thalassotherapy at the Fortina Spa Resort in Sliema. Right on the the Mediterranean Sea, the Fortina Spa has a hot, salt-water Jacuzzi with special hydro-massage jets that will relax and repair you muscles in time for a cocktail by the pool. Visit here for more information on holidays to Malta.
How to Enter
To find out more about Malta’s marathons and running events visit the official website here.
The Ultimate Test with an Ironman Triathlon – Lanzarote, 19th May 2013
An ironman challenge incorporates running, cycling and swimming, so is perfect for those that lead an extremely athletic lifestyle. Lanzarote provides a stunning route for this epic Iroman challenge. Athletes face the challenges of rocky terrain and steep climbs in the bike ride and marathon, whilst the warm waters mean that the swimming conditions can be quite pleasant. This Triathlon has a time limit of 17 hours for completion and runs in the order of; swim, cycle, run. Participants that finish this race within the 17 hours can forever be known as ‘Ironmen’! The cycle and marathon take the athletes round the whole island, including climbing the mountainous landscape around Timanfaya National Park.
Where to Relax and Recuperate
The Hotel Lanzarote Village in the heart of Puerto del Carmen is the perfect spot to recover after the triathlon, with spacious sun terraces and a Jacuzzi to sooth aching muscles. Visit here for everything you need to know about holidays to Lanzarote.
How to Enter
For full details about entry and guidelines for Ironman Lanzarote see the website here.
Guest post by: Lewis
