My Top 6 Running Destinations for Training & Trail Running Adventures

Hello runners ! 💫

Two years ago, I discovered trail running and fell in love with it! As someone who has always been passionate about mountains and spent years hiking, trail running felt like the natural next step. Born in a flat country with dense forests and cold winters, I’ve always sought out warmer, more mountainous destinations during the colder months.

↘️Today, I want to share my TOP destinations for trail running and training↙️

#1 Tenerife (Canary Islands)

My ultimate winter escape! Tenerife has it all: fast trails, coastal runs, flat routes above 2000m, and even stadiums for speedwork. The climate is perfect—never too cold or too hot. The trail-running community here is strong, and there are plenty of races to join. One of the coolest experiences? Running from sea level to 3700m in a single day on a 27km route. The other Canary Islands are also on my list to explore!

#2 Turkey’s South West Coast (Fethiye, Kemer)

This region is a hidden gem for trail runners who want to enjoy affordabl living and be out of Europe. Along the coast, you’ll find mountains with peaks reaching 2000m, offering a mix of technical rocky trails and fast gravel roads. The winter weather is mild, the sea is warm, and the local produce is fresh and delicious. Minus : as I have been there just 1 month ago the current problem is inflation and crisis that affected prices for food.

#3 Crete (Chania)

Chania is a small but vibrant hub for trail runners and ultra enthusiasts. The expat running community here is surprisingly large, and the local markets offer affordable, fresh produce like veggies, fruits, olives, and cheese. The trails are incredibly technical—some aren’t even on maps, which makes exploring feel like a true adventure. One of the coolest things? You can run from one coast to the other in a single day!

#4 Azores

A green, humid paradise for nature lovers. The Azores are small, so you can explore most of the trails in just a few weeks. The lush landscapes are breathtaking, but the humidity can make even 20°C feel hot. If you love quiet, serene places, this is for you. It might feel a bit too boring for those who prefer busier destinations.

#5 The Alps (Innsbruck)

Innsbruck is a skyrunner’s dream. The steep, elevation-heavy trails are perfect for training, and the scenery is jaw-dropping. While it’s warm and snow-free in the mid-seasons and summer, it can be quite expensive to stay here. But if you’re looking for a challenge and stunning views, it’s worth it.

#6 The Dolomites (Italy)

The Dolomites are a trail runner’s paradise, offering picturesque trails that are accessible even if you’re not a super-fit runner. The views are absolutely stunning, with dramatic peaks and lush valleys. The downside? Accommodation can be pricey. During my two-week stay, I lived in a tent and used Couchsurfing, which turned out to be an incredible experience. If you’re on a budget, this is a great way to explore the area while keeping costs low.

🏔 Now, I’d love to hear about your favorite spots!

☀️ Where would you like to go?

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