The toughest marathons in Europe!

Increasingly popular, the marathon has now found its place in all the major cities 🏙️. With the rise of the World Majors and the race for medals 🥇, you might picture marathons as flat and very fast events 🚀. But there are exceptions! Without diving into the mara-trail category, which is a format all its own, some road races in Europe present a real challenge to their runners 🥵. This doesn't tarnish their reputation, as they continue to attract marathoners year after year. So, which of these marathons should you beware of? 🤔

The Oslo Marathon (Norway) 🫎

Photo Credit: Oslo Marathon

Yes, it's the Norwegian giant kicking things off! ⚔️ The Oslo Marathon takes place in one of the most captivating cities in Scandinavia 📍. However, don't be swayed by the fjords and picturesque lanes: this event is far from a walk in the park! 😅 The Norwegian weather, often unpredictable, can add some spice to the race 🌶️ (or perhaps a chill of icy mint 🥶). Between the morning chill and potential gusts of wind, you'll need to be highly adaptable and pack your gear accordingly! 🧥 The course runs along the Oslofjord shoreline, exposing you to brisk sea air 🧊. But to warm up, there's nothing like some elevation gain through the hills and the Frogner Park. At least, your legs will stay warm! 🤣 Even your ankles will face a challenge! Watch out for the cobblestones in downtown Oslo, which can become slippery when it rains 🌧️.

The Athens Marathon (Greece) 🏛️

Photo Credit: Athens Marathon

Even the most iconic of marathons makes it into this list! With its route following the historic path of the Greek soldier Pheidippides 🪖, who, according to legend, ran from Marathon to Athens to announce victory over the Persians, this event is a must for any budding marathoner 🤓. But beyond its symbolic significance, this marathon is one of the toughest in Europe 🫠. Its long ascents and Mediterranean climate can become oppressive, even in November. Temperatures can easily reach 25°C even during this period, which doesn't pair well with the 42.195 km distance 🌡️. Plus, let's not forget that the city of Athens is very hilly! The course starts almost at sea level and climbs over several tens of kilometers before descending towards the Panathenaic Stadium. In total, expect a climb of 350 mD+! 📈

The Istanbul Marathon (Turkey) 🌙

Photo Credit: Istanbul Marathon

The Istanbul Marathon is unique in the world, as it crosses two continents 🌍. The course starts in Asia and crosses the Bosphorus Bridge to reach Europe 🌉, offering spectacular views of the city 🤩. But the beauty of the course hides a major challenge! Between the urban slopes and the changing climates along the way, this marathon is a true test 🫢. While a large part of the route is flat, you'll encounter some bridges that won't be very level ⬆️. Sharpen your quadriceps before stepping to the start line! And don't count on the weather being there to help 🌦️. Known for its unpredictability, the weather can switch from hot to cold in just a few hours ⏱️, especially with the influence of the Bosphorus winds. So, make sure to pack a windbreaker or raincoat to avoid the chill! 😝

The Biarritz International Marathon (Basque Country) 🌊

Photo Credit: Biarritz International Marathon

Hills, trails... And more hills! 😭 This marathon along the Basque Coast is known for its breathtaking route along the Atlantic but also for its steep climbs that make it one of the most challenging in France 🥐. The city of Biarritz is nestled between sea and mountains ⛰️, offering no respite: the climbs and descents are relentless, testing both your legs and your cardio 🏃‍♀️‍➡️. Expect to tackle 480 mD+! Even though the scenery is worth it, you'll need some serious trail training to cross the finish line without losing a calf along the way! 😬 Just like other marathons, its proximity to the ocean means you could face strong and... headwinds 🌬️.

The Ibiza Marathon (Spain) 🎉

Photo Credit: Ibiza Marathon

Ahhhh, the beach, the sun 🌞, here's finally a marathon that will offer you some respite! 💪 Well, think again 😯. With its postcard scenery, the Ibiza Marathon hides its true nature! This event completely changes the perception of the island: here, it's not about parties, but nature 🌿. Constant ascents, high temperatures, and fatigue under the Spanish sun 😴: that's the program! Nevertheless, this race is worth the effort it requires to cross the finish line 🏁. Haven't you ever dreamed of setting off at sunset and running under an orange sky with the sound of waves as a backdrop? 🌅 You see, the paradise setting isn't too far off when you forget about the downsides 🙃.

The Brussels Marathon (Belgium) 🧇

Photo Credit: Brussels Marathon

From the Place de Brouckère to the Atomium it's just a step... But quite a bit of elevation! 😬 If you're not used to running on slight inclines or if you've skimped a bit on your preparation, we wouldn't recommend tackling the 335 mD+ that the Belgian capital offers 😝. The course was recently changed, but that doesn't necessarily make it easier, quite the opposite! This event is very popular, but also feared by elites ⬆️, who prefer flatter circuits that are more conducive to performance ⏱️. Even for the greatest marathoners, this marathon represents a challenge within a challenge! 😂 But with over 1,000 participants at the start, this event in the Capital of Europe continues to captivate runners seeking thrills! 🎢

The Madrid Marathon (Spain) 🐻

Photo Credit: Madrid Marathon

Much like the Athens Marathon, the Madrid Marathon will take a toll on your legs! 📈 Yes, the capital of Spain is filled with various elevations, so prepare well because it's going to climb 🤓. In total, you'll face 414 mD+... Yes, you read that right 😅, that's almost on par with the Biarritz Marathon! Here, you won't have ocean views, but you will see all the monuments and historical sites that make this city so iconic 💫. This race has not earned its prestigious reputation for nothing 👑. This marathon is well-deserved and challenges all participants to cross the finish line and wear the coveted medal! 🥇

These marathons are not for the faint-hearted or the sensitive runners 💘. If you're a seasoned marathoner bored with the usual distance, these races will challenge you by trying to throw a wrench in the works (or some elevation into your calves 😂). So, are you ready to tackle one of these courses? 😎