Research shows recreational running boomed globally during the pandemic, and has only continued to grow. More than 700 events are held every year in Australia, inviting a new breed of fitness-minded travellers to run amok in our scenic and diverse landscapes. From the outback to mountains, from beaches to wineries, these 10 events combine a run with relaxation.
The natural wonders of Uluru and Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) cast a captivating aura over this unique “red earth” run in Central Australia. Watch sunrise spread across the desert before setting off along sandy tracks on Anangu country and under a cobalt sky. You can choose to run either a marathon, half marathon, 11km or 6km. Most participants combine the run with a holiday in the Red Centre, and organisers make this easy with a variety of packages. A fully hosted five-night package includes accommodation, airport transfers, an Uluru sunrise tour, special dinners and a day trip to Kings Canyon; July 29, 2023; July 27, 2024.
Victoria’s High Country is the stunning backdrop for the 42km “sky marathon”, the flagship event of autumn’s Buffalo Stampede Festival. Runners begin at 1350m on Mount Buffalo and race down its granite flanks at breakneck speed into the Bucklands Valley, before tackling the treacherous Mick’s Track, a 41.8 per cent gradient gut-buster up Mystic Mountain, finishing with a merciful descent into the pretty, riverside town of Bright. Too easy? Try the 100km Bright Ultra, notching up 5000m of elevation. The less hardcore will love the 10km Twilight Skysprint (sprinting optional) or the 5km family-friendly trail run along the Ovens River; March 22-24, 2024.
Stay:The Buckland Studios; thebuckland.com.au
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