Are you sick of running around the block, seeing the same residential streets, people, houses and general views? The good thing about running is that it gives you freedom and there are no limits as to where you can go. There is nothing stopping you exploring new places, whether it’s right here in the UK or abroad. We’ve handpicked the top 10 places to run before you die that all runners need to arrange holidays around…
1. The Grand Canyon – America
Topping the list of 10 top places to run before you die is the Grand Canyon. Known for not only its immense views but its immense size, The Grand Canyon is not only a place you can drive through and helicopter over but it has many running trails to explore. What better way to experience the beauty of historical geology, whether it is sunrise or sunset, and truly see nature in its true form. The run might not take your breath away if you’re an avid runner, but the breathtaking views certainly will.
2. Wicklow National Park – Ireland
If its a spot of countryside you want, why not head to the Wicklow National Park in Ireland where there are acres and acres of fields of green to run free?! However, it’s hard to tell whether or not you’re in it as it’s so big and not your standard looking park. You might even recognise it from the film P.S I Love You. Wicklow National Park truly is an Irish wonderland and has plenty of running trails; you can normally finish each run at a pub with a pint of Guinness. What a way to end the day!
3. Loch Ness – Scotland
Scotland’s Loch Ness is surrounded by paths that are perfect for running. Known for its mythical creature and picturesque scenery, Loch Ness is definitely a location you want to tick off your running list. Annually, there are various runs that take place where runners around the globe gather to compete in races, such as the Loch Ness Marathon that is a total of 26.2 miles, the 10k River Ness and 5k Fun Run. Loch Ness really is the perfect location for runners of all abilities.
4. Sydney’s Royal National Park – Australia
The Royal National Park is one of the world’s oldest dating back to 1879. You get to see beautiful coastal views and explore over 100km of bush tracks all in one space. If you go between May and November you might even catch a glimpse of whales migrating between their feeding and breeding grounds along what’s known as Australia’s Humpback Highway. Sights not to be missed!
5. Central Park – America
Central Park is the ultimate runners dream. A full circuit is roughly 6 miles of exquisite scenery and allows runners to explore various routes, depending on ability and difficulty, and you can discover countless tracks that allow you to experience different views, whether it be reservoirs, the tranquil forest or rowers in the Central Park Lake. You’ll never be short of things to see whilst on a run in the Big Apple.
6. Rome – Italy
There are many great places to run in Italy, but if you’re going to go anywhere it should be Rome itself. Running around Rome means you will see some historic landmarks and architecture. You can run alongside the Tiber River, there are also the Seven Hills of Rome that are worth planning on your routes as they are the geographical heart of Rome within the city walls. The Seven Hills are made up of; Aventine Hill, Caelian Hill, Capitoline Hill, Esquiline Hill, Palatine Hill, Quirinal Hill and Viminal Hill.
7. Saviese – Switzerland
If it’s stunningly breathtaking mountain views you’re looking for then head on over to Switzerland. You can really shut yourself away here and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. What’s more, you won’t get phone signal, so there’s no need to worry about any interruptions whilst running. Also, you can run along the mountain from the village to woodlands but it might leave you short of breath more than normal due to the altitude. There are many hiking trails to explore once in the forest; freedom at its best!
8. El Yunque National Rainforest – Puerto Rico
A refreshing run through the El Yunque National Rainforest will take you to sites such as waterfalls, canopy trees and different species of exotic animals such as birds, bats, snakes, lizards and tree frogs. The rainforest is about an hour outside the main city of San Juan and brings plenty of shade by the trees as you run. A lot of the trails are concrete and are perfect for a run with a friend or relative.
9. Hyde Park – England
If you’re going to run anywhere in London then go to Hyde Park. On a sunny day it is the place to be, you will be surrounded by other people running, picnicking, families walking and people enjoying themselves on boats in the lakes. It is a picturesque running trail of around five miles and you will run past famous sites such as Kensington Palace and Hyde Park.
10. The Taff Trail – Wales
Whilst coming in at number 10 on the top 10 places to run before you die, this is still considered to be a truly beautiful place to run and beats hundreds of other running spots around the world. The Taff Trail is a 55 mile running trail between Cardiff Bay in the South and Brecon in the North. You can experience plenty of Wales’ natural beauty. The trail follows on next to the River Taff and you can see waterways, reservoirs, waterfalls and even castles.
So there you have it – what we consider to be the top 10 places to run before you die, aka the ultimate running bucketlist. If you’re more of the competitive type, we’ve also created the top 10 international runs.
