Sarah Christopher
23 January 2025
The dramatic landscapes of Wales offer a unique challenge for endurance athletes. Here you can battle against the windswept coastlines of Anglesey, conquer the challenging climbs of Eryri (Snowdonia), or push your limits against the backdrop of Cardiff Bay.
Whether you're a seasoned triathlete or a first-time 10k runner, Wales provides a stunning stage for your next endurance event. From exhilarating parkruns to gruelling marathons, there's something for every level of athlete. Embrace the challenge and discover the beauty of Welsh endurance events; we’ve gathered a list of the most popular races, close to iconic holiday destinations.
So, after a day of pushing your limits, you can unwind in the comfort of a cosy Welsh cottage. Many cottages offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside, providing the perfect backdrop for post-race recovery.
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Triathlons in Wales
Ironman Wales
Photo credit: © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2022) Cymru Wales
Ironman Wales is lauded for its challenging course and vibrant Welsh atmosphere. The athletes undertake a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride and a 26.2-mile marathon run, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Tenby and Pembrokeshire.
This iconic race is also referred to as ‘facing the dragon’ this popular event attracts participants worldwide, eager to test their endurance on a demanding, ‘legendary’ course.
Need to know:
- When is Ironman Wales? 21 September 2025.
- How much does it cost to enter Ironman Wales? General Entry costs £629.54 however this can vary based on registration periods and categories. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please consult the official website.
- How do I enter Ironman Wales? Registration is managed through the official Ironman website and it's advisable to register early due to the event's popularity.
- Stay nearby: Pine View | sleeps 4
The ROC Wales
This unique triathlon combines sea swimming, cycling and mountain running; it’s not for the faint hearted. Starting with a swim in beautiful Abersoch Bay, Roc Wales participants then cycle to the base of Snowdon, ascend and descend Wales' highest peak, before returning to Abersoch to complete the race.
This event offers a distinctive blend of coastal and mountainous terrains, featuring the best of Wales rich landscape and offering competitors a truly memorable experience within the great Welsh countryside.
Need to know:
- When is The ROC Wales? 10 May 2025.
- How much does it cost to enter The ROC Wales? Entry fees are detailed on the event's official website and vary based on registration timings as well as specific races; the Open Final Tier is £240.
- How do I enter The ROC Wales? Registration can be completed online via the official ROC Wales event website. Early registration is recommended due to limited slots.
- Stay nearby: Wave Apartment - Abersoch | sleeps 2 + 1 dog
Sandman Triathlon
One of the most popular triathlons in Wales, largely due to its stunning location, the Sandman Triathlon is celebrated for its breathtaking beach setting on Newborough Beach and within Newborough Forest, Anglesey.
Participants take part in a sea swim, a bike ride through forest trails and coastal roads and a run along sandy beaches and dunes. The event caters to various skill levels with different race distances, which further adds to its wide-reaching appeal.
Need to know:
- When is the Sandman Triathlon? 21 September 2025.
- How much does it cost to enter the Sandman Triathlon? Entry fees vary depending on the chosen race distance and the time of registration; you can book your place in the ‘early bird’ Sprint Triathlon for £89.
- How do I enter the Sandman Triathlon? Registration is open on the official website and given the event's popularity, early registration is advisable.
- Stay nearby: Snowdon View Vineyard | sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
10k races in Wales
Swansea Bay 10k
Photo credit: © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2022) Cymru Wales
The Swansea Bay 10k is a fast, flat course along scenic Swansea Bay, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned runners aiming for new personal bests. It also often plans accompanying events for younger runners, such as junior races, making it a family-friendly occasion.
The event is well-organised and well known for its enthusiastic crowd who cheer on support along the route. With its lively atmosphere, along with its absolutely breathtaking coastal scenery as a backdrop, the Swansea Bay 10k is not just a fantastic race to take part in, but a fun event to witness too.
Need to know:
- When is the Swansea Bay 10k? 14 September 2025.
- How much does it cost to enter the Swansea Bay 10k? Entry fees differ depending on the race (and age group). These are listed on the official website.
- How do I enter the Swansea Bay 10k? Registration can be completed online through the Swansea Bay 4K event's website. Early registration is recommended to secure a spot.
- Stay nearby: Weavers House | sleeps 2
Cardiff 10k
The Cardiff 10k is a popular race with an ever-widening reach of supporters and entrants, as it takes runners through the heart of Cardiff, showcasing the capital's iconic landmarks and vibrant, contemporary cultural atmosphere.
The flat and fast course also appeals to runners of all abilities, with the opportunity to have your loved one’s lining the route to cheer you on. The event often also supports a wide range of local charitable causes.
Need to know:
- When is the Cardiff 10k? 7 September 2025.
- How much does it cost to enter the Cardiff 10k? Entry fees vary and are detailed on the event's official website; General Entry is £32.
- How do I enter the Cardiff 10k? Registration is managed online via the official Cardiff 10K website and it is advisable to register early due to the race's popularity.
- Stay nearby: Hafan y Ddinas Cardiff Apartment 2 | sleeps 6
Brecon Beacons 10k
Truly a race with a view, the Brecon Beacons 10k offers runners a trail experience through the spectacular and awe-inspiring landscapes of the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. The somewhat challenging course features varied terrain, including forest trails and open moorland, providing plenty of challenges, as well as breathtaking views.
Many describe the atmosphere at the Brecon Beacons 10k as being thrilling, with support for those taking part not only coming from their loved ones, but the local community, who join in with the jubilations too.
Need to know:
- When is the Brecon Beacons 10k? 9 August 2025.
- How much does it cost to enter the Brecon Beacons 10k? Entry fees are outlined on the website and vary based on registration timing; Early Bird registration (race only) is £35.
- How do I enter the Brecon Beacons 10k? Registration for this event can be completed through the Brecon Beacon 10k event's website. Early registration is recommended due to limited availability of places.
- Stay nearby: Cui Shepherds Hut | sleeps 2 + 1 dog
Marathons and half marathons in Wales
Great Welsh Marathon
Photo credit: © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2022) Cymru Wales
This popular race is renowned for its flat and fast course, making it ideal for runners aiming for personal bests. The Great Welsh Marathon route takes participants through the scenic Pembrey Country Park and along the Millennium Coastal Path, offering breathtaking views of the Welsh coastline along the way. As one of the UK's flattest marathon courses, it's a favourite amongst both seasoned runners and newcomers.
This is also a very well supported marathon in Wales, with a strong community feel. Both the start and finish line are located at Pembrey Country Park, where you’ll be treated to a festival style atmosphere with live music and entertainment.
Need to know:
- When is the Great Welsh Marathon? 16 March 2025.
- How much does it cost to enter the Great Welsh Marathon? The entry fee is £48 for affiliated runners and £50 for non-affiliated runners.
- How do I enter the Great Welsh Marathon? Registration can be completed online through theGreat Welsh Marathon’s website and early registration is recommended due to its popularity.
- Stay nearby: Cockle Shell Cottage | sleeps 2 + 2 dogs
Snowdonia Marathon Eryri
The Snowdonia Marathon Eryri is famed for its challenging course that encircles the base of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), which is the highest peak in Wales. Having been voted the Best British Marathon twice, it offers runners a demanding yet rewarding experience amidst some of the UK's most breathtaking scenery.
The race is perhaps best known for its elevation changes and unpredictable weather, adding to its allure among marathon enthusiasts. An enormously popular challenge, places book fast.
Need to know:
- When is the Snowdonia Marathon Eryri? 25 October 2025.
- How much does it cost to enter the Snowdonia Marathon Eryri? The entry fee is £48 for affiliated runners and £50 for unaffiliated runners.
- How do I enter the Snowdonia Marathon Eryri? Registration can be completed online through the Snowdonia Marathon Eryri's website and early registration is recommended due to its popularity.
- Stay nearby: Cwm Glas Bach | sleeps 4
Gower Marathon
The Gower Marathon is another event where the scenery takes centre stage; runners move through the stunning landscapes of the Gower Peninsula, which was the first place in Britain to be designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (now a National Landscape).
The course features a mix of terrains which includes cliff tops, woodland, downland, sand dunes and, of course, its world-famous beaches, offering a challenging yet picturesque experience for all participants to be inspired by.
Need to know:
- When is the Gower Marathon? The event is scheduled for 8 November 2025.
- How much does it cost to enter the Gower Marathon? Entry fees vary with a standard fee for the half marathon at £48. Please refer to the website for specific details.
- How do I enter the Gower Marathon? Registration can be completed online through the Gower Marathon's website and early registration is recommended due to its popularity.
- Stay nearby: Berties Beach House | sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
Other running races and endurance events in Wales
Photo credit: © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2022) Cymru Wales
Wales boasts an array of running, swimming races and endurance events, each set against its beautiful and varied landscapes offering plenty of inspiration and motivation for competitors. From coastal paths to mountainous terrains, athletes can experience the country's natural beauty while participating in well-organised, well-supported and challenging events.
Here are some popular events to consider taking part in:
- Rabbit Run Wales: A 7.5-mile trail race that offers runners the chance to navigate scenic routes, often featuring varied terrains and distances suitable for different skill levels with mixed age races to partake in too.
- Long Course Weekend Wales: This is a full weekend of activities in Pembrokeshire National Park, including swimming, cycling, and running events. Participants (of all ages) can choose to compete in one discipline or take on the ultimate challenge by completing all three over the weekend.
- Abersoch Triple Crown: A series of three challenging races held in Abersoch, combining running, swimming and a triathlon. Athletes compete across the three iconic events to earn the prestigious Triple Crown title.
- Parkruns in Wales: These are free, weekly 5k runs held in various parks across Wales. Open to runners of all abilities and ages, parkruns are community events that encourage participation and fitness in a friendly environment.
Stay with us in Wales
Ready to experience the thrill of Welsh endurance events? Start planning your New Year adventure today and browse our list of recommended events; from 10k in Wales, to ultra half marathons.
Discover the perfect self-catering holiday cottage in Wales and get ready to conquer an array of scenic challenges.
Header and Driver Image - Photo credit: © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2022) Cymru Wales
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.