Iceland Marathon and Running Events

Iceland's dramatic landscapes provide some of the world's most extraordinary backdrops for distance running, transforming the simple act of putting one foot in front of the other into an epic adventure through volcanic moonscapes, glacial valleys, and Nordic coastlines. The island's growing reputation as a premier running destination stems not just from its otherworldly scenery, but from meticulously organised events that showcase the very best of Icelandic terrain whilst challenging runners of all abilities.

Reykjavik Marathon: The Crown Jewel

The Reykjavik Marathon, held annually on the third Saturday of August, stands as Iceland's premier running event and one of Europe's most spectacular urban marathons. Established in 1984, this Boston Marathon qualifier winds through the capital's colourful neighbourhoods before venturing into the surrounding Reykjanes Peninsula's dramatic volcanic landscape.

The full 42.2km course begins at Laugardalsvöllur Stadium, threading through central Reykjavik's charming streets lined with corrugated iron houses painted in brilliant blues, greens, and reds. Runners pass iconic landmarks including Hallgrímskirkja church, whose 74.5-metre spire dominates the cityscape, and the striking Harpa Concert Hall with its geometric glass facade.

The route's most challenging section comes between kilometres 15 and 25, where runners traverse the Elliðaárdalur valley and face rolling hills through residential areas like Árbær and Breiðholt. The return journey offers stunning views across Faxaflói Bay toward the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, with the glacier-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano visible on clear days.

Entry fees range from 15,900 ISK (€110) for early registration to 18,900 ISK (€130) closer to race day. The event attracts approximately 3,000 runners from over 40 countries, with the half-marathon drawing an additional 4,500 participants. Course records stand at 2:16:33 for men (Kenya's Nicholas Kipkorir in 2019) and 2:41:35 for women (Iceland's own Elísabet Kristín Jónsdóttir in 2018).

Laugavegur Ultra Marathon: Into the Highlands

For trail running purists seeking the ultimate Icelandic challenge, the Laugavegur Ultra Marathon transforms the country's most famous hiking route into a 55km test of endurance through some of Earth's most pristine wilderness. Held annually in July, this event follows the legendary Laugavegur trail from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk, crossing landscapes so alien that NASA has used them for astronaut training.

The race begins at 700 metres elevation in Landmannalaugar's geothermal wonderland, where multicoloured rhyolite mountains create a painter's palette of oranges, yellows, and greens. Runners immediately face the first major challenge: ascending to Hrafntinnusker at 1,128 metres, often through snow fields even in summer.

The route's most technically demanding section traverses the Álftavatn plateau, crossing numerous glacial rivers and navigating around Iceland's largest obsidian field. Between kilometres 30 and 40, runners descend through the Emstrur region's black sand deserts, where volcanic ash creates an otherworldly moonscape punctuated by vibrant green oases fed by underground springs.

The final 10 kilometres plunge dramatically into Þórsmörk valley, losing 400 metres of elevation through steep, rocky terrain that demands careful footwork. Glacial rivers from Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers crisscross the valley floor, requiring multiple ford crossings that can reach knee-deep depending on conditions.

Registration costs 39,000 ISK (€270) and includes accommodation at Landmannalaugar mountain huts, meals, and transfer services. The field is strictly limited to 150 runners, with places typically selling out within hours of registration opening in February.

Midnight Sun Run: Westman Islands

The Westman Islands' Midnight Sun Run in June offers one of Europe's most unique running experiences, taking place during Iceland's brightest nights when darkness never fully arrives. This 10km event circumnavigates Heimaey island, the archipelago's only inhabited landmass, following cliff-top paths with 200-metre drops to the North Atlantic.

The course begins in Vestmannaeyjar town centre, population 4,200, before climbing steadily to Eldfell volcano, created during the dramatic 1973 eruption that buried one-third of the town under lava and ash. Runners traverse the volcano's rim at 221 metres elevation, with views extending across the entire 15-island archipelago.

The route's most spectacular section follows the southern coastline's bird cliffs, home to the world's largest Atlantic puffin colony. Between May and September, over one million puffins nest in the grassy clifftops, creating a remarkable wildlife spectacle. The course then loops back through the valley between Eldfell and the older Helgafell volcano, finishing at the harbour where rescue boats saved 5,300 residents during the 1973 evacuation.

Entry costs 8,900 ISK (€62) including the return ferry journey from Landeyjahöfn on the mainland. The 35-minute crossing aboard Herjólfur ferry adds to the adventure, though rough seas can challenge sensitive stomachs.

Practical Considerations

Iceland's unpredictable weather demands careful preparation regardless of season. Summer temperatures range from 8-15°C, whilst wind speeds can exceed 50 km/h with little warning. Waterproof layers remain essential even in August, and trail events require proper fell-running shoes for volcanic terrain that can shred road trainers within kilometres.

Most events provide comprehensive support including GPS tracking, mountain rescue backup, and heated changing facilities. Medical stations staff include wilderness medicine specialists familiar with hypothermia treatment and high-altitude physiology.

Training should emphasise hill work and technical terrain, as Iceland's volcanic landscape differs dramatically from conventional road or trail surfaces. The porous lava rock provides excellent grip when dry but becomes treacherously slippery when wet, demanding different running techniques than most international competitors expect.

These events showcase Iceland's extraordinary diversity within relatively compact distances, offering runners unparalleled access to landscapes that few humans ever experience. Whether pursuing personal bests on Reykjavik's streets or testing limits in the highland wilderness, Iceland's running events create memories that extend far beyond finishing times.

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