10 Amazing running destinations you must try

Your guide to some of the most incredible and inspiring places to run around the world, accompanied by expert tips.

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 and An Jung-eun

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.

Your Guide To Running Our Experts’ Standout Destinations

A global overview of inspirational spots

Zoom in on each location to get key information from our experts, and the start and finish points for their suggested running route in each destination.

Starting Point: Gimnyeong Beach

South Korea: Jeju

A 4km beachfront run if you go one-way, or an 8km if you double back, this island run serves as a great gentle introduction to Jeju Island where you'll also see a lot of cyclists enjoying its peaceful, well-kept roads.
A 4km beachfront run if you go one-way, or an 8km if you double back, this island run serves as a great gentle introduction to Jeju Island where you'll also see a lot of cyclists enjoying its peaceful, well-kept roads.

Finishing Point: Woljeongri Beach

South Korea: Jeju

Although this route has almost no elevation, there are some gentle rises and An Jung-eun advises caution when you take on the uphill sections of the run on windy days, which increases the difficulty level.
Although this route has almost no elevation, there are some gentle rises and An Jung-eun advises caution when you take on the uphill sections of the run on windy days, which increases the difficulty level.

Starting point: Waterfall Gully

Australia: Adelaide Hills

At just under 4km one-way or 7.9km roundtrip, this is a moderately challenging route that the Lambros boys enjoy. If you complete the longer route, you'll rack up close to 500m of elevation.
At just under 4km one-way or 7.9km roundtrip, this is a moderately challenging route that the Lambros boys enjoy. If you complete the longer route, you'll rack up close to 500m of elevation.

Finishing Point: Mount Lofty Summit

Australia: Adelaide Hills

This trail run, which crosses creeks but is mainly located on well-maintained pathways, is a great running trail that rewards you with stunning views and potential koala sightings. The Mount Lofty summit also has food amenities so you can refuel.
This trail run, which crosses creeks but is mainly located on well-maintained pathways, is a great running trail that rewards you with stunning views and potential koala sightings. The Mount Lofty summit also has food amenities so you can refuel.

Starting point: Tower Bridge

UK: London’s River Thames

A mesmerising 5km run along the Thames, this route is flat and easygoing. You can double back or cross the river to make a 10km loop back to Tower Bridge.
A mesmerising 5km run along the Thames, this route is flat and easygoing. You can double back or cross the river to make a 10km loop back to Tower Bridge.

Finishing Point: Big Ben

UK: London’s River Thames

Running on the north bank of the river allows you to take in some of London's most iconic tourist pulls - The Oxo Tower, Tate Modern and London Eye are all spotted, as your finish point Big Ben comes into view.
Running on the north bank of the river allows you to take in some of London's most iconic tourist pulls - The Oxo Tower, Tate Modern and London Eye are all spotted, as your finish point Big Ben comes into view.

Starting Point: Kuta Beach

Indonesia: Bali

Here's a beach run from Lambros - a pan flat 5km from Kuta Beach north to Seminyak Beach and just one of many idyllic routes you can tackle along the plentiful beachfronts.
Here's a beach run from Lambros - a pan flat 5km from Kuta Beach north to Seminyak Beach and just one of many idyllic routes you can tackle along the plentiful beachfronts.

Finishing Point: Seminyak Beach

Indonesia: Bali

You can choose your difficulty level by running on the beach itself or the road alongside which overlooks the beach, and has a sidewalk all the way. The busier first half of this route has a bike lane too.
You can choose your difficulty level by running on the beach itself or the road alongside which overlooks the beach, and has a sidewalk all the way. The busier first half of this route has a bike lane too.

Starting Point: Ala Moana Beach

Hawaii: Honolulu

An Jung-eun recommends running this as a loop for a 7-8km round trip that starts at Ala Moana Beach, reaches Waikiki Beach and then doubles back to Ala Moana. This route has no elevation gain.
An Jung-eun recommends running this as a loop for a 7-8km round trip that starts at Ala Moana Beach, reaches Waikiki Beach and then doubles back to Ala Moana. This route has no elevation gain.

Finishing Point: Waikiki Beach

Hawaii: Honolulu

Ala Moana Park has a network of sidewalks for the start of the route, and the stretch between Ala Moana and Waikiki beaches has some beachfront walkways. A loop of Ala Moana Park and Magic Island is a nice alternative.
Ala Moana Park has a network of sidewalks for the start of the route, and the stretch between Ala Moana and Waikiki beaches has some beachfront walkways. A loop of Ala Moana Park and Magic Island is a nice alternative.

Starting and Finishing Point: Vancouver Rowing Club

Canada: Vancouver’s Stanley Park Seawall

Lambros Army believes a loop of the spectacular Stanley Park is the way to go. Starting and finishing at the rowing club, you'll complete a circuit that comes in at just under 10km and has magnificent waterfront pathways

Starting Point: Naka-meguro Station

Japan: Tokyo

A 6km round route that shuttles between two metro stations, this is an easy enough run on a flat riverside path that is lined with cherry blossom trees for a uniquely beautiful Japanese experience.
A 6km round route that shuttles between two metro stations, this is an easy enough run on a flat riverside path that is lined with cherry blossom trees for a uniquely beautiful Japanese experience.

Finishing Point: Gotanda Station

Japan: Tokyo

The Meguro River has pathways for almost its full length and extends beyond the suggested finish point of Gotanda Station, in case you want to go longer. There are also plenty of cafes along the way for a coffee stop.
The Meguro River has pathways for almost its full length and extends beyond the suggested finish point of Gotanda Station, in case you want to go longer. There are also plenty of cafes along the way for a coffee stop.

Starting and Finishing Point: Lago di Alleghe

Italy: Dolomites

"Provides breathtaking Alpine views and is best for experienced trail runners seeking a high-altitude challenge" is how Lambros describe the Dolomites, but this suggested loop of Alleghe lake is a more gentle intro at 5.

Starting and Finishing Point: Central Park

USA: New York’s Central Park

There are a range of loops to be run in Central Park, from a 2.2km at the north end to a just-shy-of-10km full circuit of this famous park. Flat and full of famous photo stops, Central Park caters for all levels of runne

Starting and Finishing Point: Marina Bay

Singapore: Marina Bay

There are multiple options for a scenic run in Marina Bay, from shorter versions that can also take in the Gardens by the Bay, to longer ones that extend as far north as the National Stadium for a 10km loop.
There are multiple options for a scenic run in Marina Bay, from shorter versions that can also take in the Gardens by the Bay, to longer ones that extend as far north as the National Stadium for a 10km loop.

Starting Point: Gimnyeong Beach

South Korea: Jeju

A 4km beachfront run if you go one-way, or an 8km if you double back, this island run serves as a great gentle introduction to Jeju Island where you'll also see a lot of cyclists enjoying its peaceful, well-kept roads.
A 4km beachfront run if you go one-way, or an 8km if you double back, this island run serves as a great gentle introduction to Jeju Island where you'll also see a lot of cyclists enjoying its peaceful, well-kept roads.

Finishing Point: Woljeongri Beach

South Korea: Jeju

Although this route has almost no elevation, there are some gentle rises and An Jung-eun advises caution when you take on the uphill sections of the run on windy days, which increases the difficulty level.
Although this route has almost no elevation, there are some gentle rises and An Jung-eun advises caution when you take on the uphill sections of the run on windy days, which increases the difficulty level.

Starting point: Waterfall Gully

Australia: Adelaide Hills

At just under 4km one-way or 7.9km roundtrip, this is a moderately challenging route that the Lambros boys enjoy. If you complete the longer route, you'll rack up close to 500m of elevation.
At just under 4km one-way or 7.9km roundtrip, this is a moderately challenging route that the Lambros boys enjoy. If you complete the longer route, you'll rack up close to 500m of elevation.

Finishing Point: Mount Lofty Summit

Australia: Adelaide Hills

This trail run, which crosses creeks but is mainly located on well-maintained pathways, is a great running trail that rewards you with stunning views and potential koala sightings. The Mount Lofty summit also has food amenities so you can refuel.
This trail run, which crosses creeks but is mainly located on well-maintained pathways, is a great running trail that rewards you with stunning views and potential koala sightings. The Mount Lofty summit also has food amenities so you can refuel.

Starting point: Tower Bridge

UK: London’s River Thames

A mesmerising 5km run along the Thames, this route is flat and easygoing. You can double back or cross the river to make a 10km loop back to Tower Bridge.
A mesmerising 5km run along the Thames, this route is flat and easygoing. You can double back or cross the river to make a 10km loop back to Tower Bridge.

Finishing Point: Big Ben

UK: London’s River Thames

Running on the north bank of the river allows you to take in some of London's most iconic tourist pulls - The Oxo Tower, Tate Modern and London Eye are all spotted, as your finish point Big Ben comes into view.
Running on the north bank of the river allows you to take in some of London's most iconic tourist pulls - The Oxo Tower, Tate Modern and London Eye are all spotted, as your finish point Big Ben comes into view.

Starting Point: Kuta Beach

Indonesia: Bali

Here's a beach run from Lambros - a pan flat 5km from Kuta Beach north to Seminyak Beach and just one of many idyllic routes you can tackle along the plentiful beachfronts.
Here's a beach run from Lambros - a pan flat 5km from Kuta Beach north to Seminyak Beach and just one of many idyllic routes you can tackle along the plentiful beachfronts.

Finishing Point: Seminyak Beach

Indonesia: Bali

You can choose your difficulty level by running on the beach itself or the road alongside which overlooks the beach, and has a sidewalk all the way. The busier first half of this route has a bike lane too.
You can choose your difficulty level by running on the beach itself or the road alongside which overlooks the beach, and has a sidewalk all the way. The busier first half of this route has a bike lane too.

Starting Point: Ala Moana Beach

Hawaii: Honolulu

An Jung-eun recommends running this as a loop for a 7-8km round trip that starts at Ala Moana Beach, reaches Waikiki Beach and then doubles back to Ala Moana. This route has no elevation gain.
An Jung-eun recommends running this as a loop for a 7-8km round trip that starts at Ala Moana Beach, reaches Waikiki Beach and then doubles back to Ala Moana. This route has no elevation gain.

Finishing Point: Waikiki Beach

Hawaii: Honolulu

Ala Moana Park has a network of sidewalks for the start of the route, and the stretch between Ala Moana and Waikiki beaches has some beachfront walkways. A loop of Ala Moana Park and Magic Island is a nice alternative.
Ala Moana Park has a network of sidewalks for the start of the route, and the stretch between Ala Moana and Waikiki beaches has some beachfront walkways. A loop of Ala Moana Park and Magic Island is a nice alternative.

Starting and Finishing Point: Vancouver Rowing Club

Canada: Vancouver’s Stanley Park Seawall

Lambros Army believes a loop of the spectacular Stanley Park is the way to go. Starting and finishing at the rowing club, you'll complete a circuit that comes in at just under 10km and has magnificent waterfront pathways

Starting Point: Naka-meguro Station

Japan: Tokyo

A 6km round route that shuttles between two metro stations, this is an easy enough run on a flat riverside path that is lined with cherry blossom trees for a uniquely beautiful Japanese experience.
A 6km round route that shuttles between two metro stations, this is an easy enough run on a flat riverside path that is lined with cherry blossom trees for a uniquely beautiful Japanese experience.

Finishing Point: Gotanda Station

Japan: Tokyo

The Meguro River has pathways for almost its full length and extends beyond the suggested finish point of Gotanda Station, in case you want to go longer. There are also plenty of cafes along the way for a coffee stop.
The Meguro River has pathways for almost its full length and extends beyond the suggested finish point of Gotanda Station, in case you want to go longer. There are also plenty of cafes along the way for a coffee stop.

Starting and Finishing Point: Lago di Alleghe

Italy: Dolomites

"Provides breathtaking Alpine views and is best for experienced trail runners seeking a high-altitude challenge" is how Lambros describe the Dolomites, but this suggested loop of Alleghe lake is a more gentle intro at 5.

Starting and Finishing Point: Central Park

USA: New York’s Central Park

There are a range of loops to be run in Central Park, from a 2.2km at the north end to a just-shy-of-10km full circuit of this famous park. Flat and full of famous photo stops, Central Park caters for all levels of runne

Starting and Finishing Point: Marina Bay

Singapore: Marina Bay

There are multiple options for a scenic run in Marina Bay, from shorter versions that can also take in the Gardens by the Bay, to longer ones that extend as far north as the National Stadium for a 10km loop.
There are multiple options for a scenic run in Marina Bay, from shorter versions that can also take in the Gardens by the Bay, to longer ones that extend as far north as the National Stadium for a 10km loop.

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.

Top tip

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!

Top tip

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!

Top tip

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.

Top tip

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.

Top tip

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.

Top tip

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.

Top tip

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.

Top tip

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.

Top tip

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.

Top tip

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.

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