Are you looking for a running challenge that'll unlock your adventurous spirit?
We've got a list of 10 outstanding destinations that are worth your consideration, as recommended by some top running experts. We've spoken to two authorities on running, who know how to combine an impactful run with a serious dose of inspiration and motivation.

Lambros Army/An Jung-eun
An Jung-eun is a professional runner, CEO of RUNderful and Dallidang, and the youngest Korean to complete the world's top seven marathons. She's on a mission to promote a healthy running culture in her native South Korea, and highlight the transformative powers of the pursuit.
Australian brothers Stefan and Lachlan Lamble are Lambros Army, the first brothers to run across Australia. They ran a historic 3,400km across the full width of their homeland, and this year are planning to run the full length of the UK with the aim of raising money for cancer research.
Together, An Jung-eun and Lambros gave us their top running destinations around the world, and some essential tips for all levels of runners to get the most out of their routes.
South Korea: Jeju
Island vibes in a tranquil running paradise
This is one of An Jung-eun’s favourite routes in her native South Korea, on the island of Jeju. Running from Gimnyeong Beach to Woljeongri Beach on the Jeju Olle Trail Route 20 you’ll hear the waves of the sea as you take in the visual delights of this stunning location. An Jung-eun puts the difficulty level at an easy one out of five. It’s a runner’s dream whether you hit the trail in the evening to enjoy the sunset over the sea, or head out in the morning to start the day with a bang, finishing up with a cooling post-run dip in the sea.
An Jung-eun recommends storing a run route offline on Google Maps in advance, in case you end up without coverage.
Australia: Adelaide Hills
Some of the best running Australia has to offer
As proud Australians, the Lambros Army brothers recommend numerous scenic trails in the Adelaide Hills as some of the best running routes in the country. You’ll discover stunning views and diverse terrain, great for solo training or group hill runs. Try the route from Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty in Cleland National Park or the Belair Park Waterfall circuit, which features several short steep ascents and descents. This is perfect terrain if you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature and build endurance on inclines!
The key to recovery from hilly runs is sleep and good rest, according to the Lambros boys. Sleeping with an eye mask, refuelling with whole foods such as fresh fruit and vegetables, and proper hydration all make huge differences.
UK: London’s River Thames
A run taking in some of the city's most iconic sights
There are great running routes all along the River Thames in some of the most iconic areas of England’s historic and energetic capital city, a place where An Jung-eun loves to run. The London marathon is one of running’s great annual events and traditional sections of the marathon route are located alongside the river. During the winter months it can get very cold in London, so layer up accordingly. After your run, a hearty brunch at Borough Market is highly recommended!
Always to be alert and aware when city running: traffic, people and bikes can appear from anywhere and at any time.
Indonesia: Bali
Beach runs and ultra marathons: Bali has it all
The Lambros Army siblings love Kuta and Seminyak in Bali for beachside running as these locations offer a mix of firm sand and paved boardwalks for variety. You can enjoy the sunshine as you train, with scenic ocean views, perfect for both long-distance runners and beginners still easing into running. Meanwhile the Bali Hope Ultra-marathon routes are designed for seasoned runners looking for an extreme challenge in the country’s tropical climate. An overnight coast-to-coast double marathon route will test the endurance and mental strength of experienced and in-form athletes. Lots of residents and visitors to Bali keep themselves in great shape and there are plenty of group runs that are easy to join.
Running in any hot climate is best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset to avoid extreme midday conditions. Pace yourself and be sure to adequately hydrate and refuel after a run in the heat.
Hawaii: Honolulu
Post-run ocean-view yoga and great facilities
Honolulu is a paradise for anyone who enjoys great culture combined with an outdoors-focused lifestyle. The Ala Moana Beach Park to Waikiki Beach route is an urban run which makes the shortlist courtesy of An Jung-eun. She encourages you to enjoy this run surrounded by palm trees against a sunkissed Pacific backdrop. A good Yoga session overlooking the ocean after running along the beach is an unforgettable experience. Convenient parking for running here is available at Ala Moana Center parking lot, which is well-equipped with shower facilities and drinking fountains within the park.
Wear light-coloured, breathable clothing when running in the sun. An Jung-eun also recommends a trail vest with water to keep hydrated throughout.
Canada: Vancouver’s Stanley Park Seawall
Fresh sea air and lush green natural scenery
Vancouver’s 17-mile Seawall is the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path, with a mix of paved and gravel trails along the stunning coastline. It offers great routes for athletes of all abilities and fitness levels, featuring prominently on the Lambros Army shortlist of top international running destinations. Here you’re training and enjoying your exercise whilst breathing in the fresh sea air of the Burrard Inlet, coming in off the Strait of Georgia. This is great running in lush green natural scenery, with the waves on one side and one of Canada’s most dynamic and interesting cities ready to explore on the other side.
Lambros Army recommends following the 80/20 rule: 80% of your runs at an easy, conversational pace (120-140 BPM), saving high intensity for the remaining 20%. This gives you more time and energy to appreciate your surroundings.
Japan: Tokyo
Urban beauty with a cherry blossom-lined route
Tokyo is simultaneously one of the most colourful, coolest and densely populated urban centres on the planet. An Jung-eun says the route from Naka-meguro Station to Gotanda Station and back is a great way to enjoy this truly unique capital city. If you run early in the morning during cherry blossom season you’ll still enjoy a calm, relaxed atmosphere, though it can get slippery when the petals are falling, so non-slip running shoes are recommended.
It's really important to respect local culture and rules. In Japan, for example, good manners are very much appreciated. Respect those walking and running around you and do not listen to loud music through speakers.
Italy: Dolomites
Incredible valleys to explore with unrivalled views
It’s fair to say that the Lambros rate the Dolomites mountain running trails pretty highly. There are seemingly endless trails through the Dolomites and some of the best running in the region can be found in the Gardena and Funes valleys of the western Dolomites. You’ll encounter routes with steep climbs, rocky paths, and winding trails, making for a full-body workout. Stop for a cool down in a mountain stream or lake and take in the magnificent views as you push yourself to new heights. A cable-car ride down is available from many routes, and you may wish to follow up your run with a well earned ‘acqua minerale’ and a cappuccino. Running the Dolomites trails is best for experienced trail runners seeking a high-altitude challenge, though there are approachable sectors for newcomers to trail running.
Don't be afraid to run-walk - many elite runners still do that every day. It allows you to avoid injuries and make sure you're really taking in your surroundings.
USA: New York’s Central Park
Take a bite out the Big Apple's iconic Central Park
An iconic running venue consistently enjoyed by thousands of New Yorkers and many visitors to the ‘Big Apple’. The Central Park loop is given a difficulty level of two out of five by An Jung-eun. She recommends running in the morning sunlight, so judge the conditions according to the time of year and aim for that sweet spot earlier in the day, before the park becomes overcrowded. You can enjoy a stylish brunch after your run at one of the numerous excellent cafés that border the park. If you want to double check your route on a park map before running they are found at the various entry points. Planning your route with a photo stop before, during or after at Strawberry Fields, Belvedere Castle, The Great Lawn or Bethesda Terrace will provide you with a classic NYC running experience.
An Jung-eun advises wearing safety equipment such as fluorescent clothing or light bands, even when running in a traffic-free setting like Central Park. You still need to be visible to other runners, dog walkers, cyclists and those on e-scooters.
Singapore: Marina Bay
Bay running and green gardens make for a relaxing setting
Running around Singapore’s Marina Bay is an unforgettable experience according to An Jung-eun. She enjoys the loop from the Gardens by the Bay to Marina Barrage to Merlion Park while taking in the city's gardens and epic skyline. Given how hot it often gets in Singapore, running there is most enjoyable just before and after sunrise or sunset. You should nonetheless still prepare for humid weather, wearing a functional t-shirt and ensuring you have quick access to fluids for rehydration, as you’re likely to sweat a lot. Running earns you calories and in a destination such as Singapore with such a rich local food culture you’ll be spoilt for choice when you refuel. Finish your run by enjoying the musical fountain at Gardens by the Bay.
Search for local running crews on Instagram, introduce yourself briefly via direct message and ask if you can join a group run. Running in groups is motivating, and can make your experience more fun with locals who know the area.