Tiny European Countries – Amazing Races!

Editor’s Note: The following post is by Renato Losio, editor of RunAbroad.com.

Running a race is an alternative way to visit a new city: no traffic, a fast (or not so fast, according to your training) sightseeing tour and one more excuse for a weekend away. But in some destinations you can take the experience to the next level, visiting most of a country during a race. Here are our suggestions in Europe, you can choose between city runs and trail ones.

2008 LGT Alpin-Marathon in Liechtenstein

LGT Alpin-Marathon, Liechtenstein

The LGT half marathon Plus (25k) and the LGT marathon are two challenging trail races and the most important sports event in Liechtenstein. The races start outside Vaduz and through paved walking paths reach the small resort of Malbun, passing by the castle of the Duke of Liechtenstein and dreamy landscapes (with grueling ascents). Fly to the principality at the beginning of June.

Finishing the Monaco Marathon

Guernsey Marathon, Channel Islands

In the English Channel, about 50 km from the north coast of France and 100km from the south coast of England, the Sportingbet Guernsey Marathon is the major running event on the islands of Guernsey. The island has a unique coastline and countryside and you will run through cottages and sandy beaches. Start date is August 29.

Marathon de Monaco et des Riviera & 10K, Monaco

The start line of the Marathon de Monaco et des Riviera & 10K is on boulevard Albert I, to match the one of the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix, and the end is on the amazing Stade Louis II. Up and down the narrow streets of Montecarlo (10K) and a windy experience along the seaside (the marathon), the races are the best chance for the tiny (and hilly) country of Monaco. Get ready for the end of March 2011.

Route du Vin, Luxembourg

The Dexia Route du Vin is a half marathon in the picturesque town of Remich in Luxembourg. Running along the banks of the Moselle river on the German border, where the valley is dominated by many small wine-making towns. Get ready for a flat out and back course next September.

Andorra Ultra Trail Vallnord, Andorra

Are you looking for something more challenging? The Andorra Ultra Trail Vallnord offers both a 35km trail race in the mountains and a 112km ultra with almost 10,000m of ascent and a 30% uphill challenge between Pla de l’Estany and Pic del Comapedrosa. Just for the crazy ones? Over 900 runners joined the event at the end of June.

Not enough? From the ING europe-marathon in Luxemburg in May to the Course du Soleil between Nice and Monaco (January 2011), tiny countries are a great excuse for a long run.

- Renato Losio

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Europe tours & things to do and find other European outdoor activities, water sports, and walking and biking tours.