Has the London Marathon left you wanting more? These are some of Europe’s most stunning challenges for runners
Whether you're feeling fresh from yesterday's marathon triumph or you've made a solemn vow never to to look at another running shoe, it's worth thinking about next year's challenge.
As thousands discovered to their chagrin this year, places on the biggest runs go quickly – and in many cases, ballots make clinching a place trick. Either way, there's no need to stick to London in 2016 – there are plenty of marathon options across Europe, many of which will take you through some of the continent's most beautiful scenery and impressive architecture.
Below are some of Europe's most spectacular, although none have confirmed their application deadlines yet.
SIBERIAN ICE MARATHON – JANUARY
Participants will travel to Omsk (Source: Getty)
For those seeking a challenge, this is ideal. Runners pass through Siberian snow at temperatures well below freezing.
The run is based around the Russian town of Omsk, although the exact date has not yet been confirmed.
Website : http://runsim.ru/en/ice
Email : mail@RunSIM.ru
MALTA – 28 FEBRUARY
The run will take you through some of the island's most beautiful towns (Source: Getty)
Starting outside the old capital Medina, the route will take you through a number of the Mediterranean island's most beautiful towns.
Malta can get extremely hot during the spring and summer, but the temperature will be ideal for running at this time of year.
Website : http://www.maltamarathon.com
Email : info@maltamarathon.com
BARCELONA – 13 MARCH
One of Europe's most popular marathons (Source: Getty)
This route takes you past many of the Catalan capital's best sights, including Camp Nou (home to FC Barcelona), Gaudi's La Pedrera and Sagrada Familia cathedral, and the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, a Unesco world heritage site.
Website : http://www.zurichmaratobarcelona.com
Email : info@maratobarcelona.es
ROME – 3 APRIL
Runners will see the Colosseum (Source: Getty)
The Colosseum, the Pantheon and ancient forum are just some of the ancient relics you'll run past during this marathon, which is relatively flat despite Rome being called the “City of Seven Hills”.
April is an ideal time of year for it, too – warm, but not too warm. In a survey by Runner's World, it was voted the top city marathon choice.
Website: http://www.maratonadiroma.it
Email: info@maratonadiroma.it
PARIS – 3 APRIL
See the French capital on foot (Source: Getty)
Unfortunately, this is on the same day as the Rome marathon, so you'll have to choose between the two.
Here, you'll get to run alongside the Seine, pass by the Louvre and even get a quick foot massage in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower.
Website : http://www.parismarathon.com
Email : parismarathon@aso.fr
VIENNA – 10 APRIL
Enjoy Vienna's architecture (Source: Getty)
The Austrian capital's marathon is packed with grand architecture and historical sites. Starting at the United Nations Building in the new part of town, you'll then be taken over the Danube's Reicsbruke bridge and into the heart of the old city. The Vienna theatre, Vienna State opera, Votiv church and City Park are among the landmarks you'll pass.
Website : http://www.vienna-marathon.com
Email : office@vienna-marathon.com