Why Are Fitness Fans Flocking to Exotic Destinations for 3-Mile 'Runcations'? You Won't Believe What They're Discovering!

In recent years, a new trend has emerged among fitness enthusiasts: the “runcation.” This unique travel phenomenon combines running with vacationing, allowing individuals to explore new places while pursuing their passion for fitness. The trend has seen significant growth, particularly since the pandemic, as many turned to running as a way to stay active when gyms were closed.

Elizabeth Arnold, a longtime runner and senior retreat leader at Run Wild Retreats, embodies this runcation spirit. During a trip to Greece in August 2021, Arnold and her daughter opted for a coastal trail run on the island of Sifnos, rather than the typical tourist attractions. Their experience illustrates how running and travel can intertwine, offering a deeper connection to the location. “For me, travel and running are inseparable,” Arnold said, highlighting a growing sentiment among travelers.

The appeal of runcations is underscored by recent statistics. According to a 2026 report by Strava, global participation in running clubs jumped by 59%, with the total now exceeding 1 million clubs. Additionally, TripAdvisor's 2026 Trendcast identified “sweat jetting,” or trips centered around athletic experiences, as one of the fastest-growing trends in tourism. Accor hotels also predict a surge in “athletic adventures,” citing a 50% increase in searches for “workout holidays.”

Runcations typically fall into two categories: those focused on races and those that prioritize exploration through running. Hotels and resorts are adapting to this trend by offering guided runs, curated routes, and wellness programs. Molly Baker, a 34-year-old runner who has made travel a central part of her marathon experiences, illustrates this shift perfectly. “I usually plan my vacations around destination marathons. Even if there is no race, my husband and I choose places based on availability for running,” Baker explained.

For Baker, races often serve as a springboard for extended travel. After completing the Tokyo Marathon, she and her husband continued their adventure in Kyoto, discovering picturesque river routes along the way. Running not only keeps her active but also fosters connections with fellow runners. “I met others on the plane who were participating in the marathon, and we even went on a shakeout run at the hotel,” she said, emphasizing the community aspect of the sport.

Andy Solarz, a 36-year-old marathoner and founder of PR Running Hats, shares a similar approach. While he occasionally chooses destinations based on race opportunities, he often uses running as a way to explore. “In Madrid last weekend, I didn’t know where I was going to go, so I just ran wherever I saw something interesting,” he shared. This method allows him to blend exercise and exploration seamlessly, often stopping at local bakeries for a pastry along the way.

Demand for organized marathon trips has also doubled since the pandemic, according to Jeff Adams, president of Marathon Tours & Travel. Many runners bring friends or family along, with women aged 25-34 being a rapidly growing demographic within this market. “There’s a feeling of being a global citizen and the athletic accomplishment,” Adams noted. While major marathons in cities like London and New York remain popular, there is also increasing interest in races in countries like China, Iceland, and even Bhutan.

However, not every traveler is chasing a finish line. Michael Mazzara, CEO of Rogue Expeditions, highlighted a different segment of running tourists. “There are many people who don’t want to train for a marathon but would enjoy running five miles a day in beautiful settings, like Morocco or the Dolomites in Italy,” he explained. This trend reflects a desire among travelers to maintain a routine while immersing themselves in new cultures.

Hotels are also capitalizing on the runcation trend. Brands like Westin Hotels & Resorts have long supported runners through their WestinWORKOUT program, which features curated running routes and guided runs in select locations. “Before wellness became a buzzword, we recognized our guests wanted to stay active while feeling like themselves on the road,” said Peggy Roe, executive vice president and chief customer officer at Marriott International.

Luxury resorts like the Four Seasons Tamarindo have also embraced the trend, offering a Run Concierge program that includes guided runs along scenic coastal and jungle routes. This increased focus on fitness allows travelers to maintain their routines while exploring new environments. Boutique hotels, such as Nômade Tulum, cater to guests looking to incorporate wellness activities like yoga into their runs, further aligning with the runcation ethos.

Ultimately, runcations emphasize movement over relaxation, allowing travelers to integrate their passion for running into their exploration of new destinations. Arnold points out that this approach redefines the traditional concept of vacation. “When people hear ‘run,’ there’s often an intimidation factor. We try to take that out of the equation,” she said, advocating for a slower, more mindful approach to running while traveling.

As the trend continues to gain traction, it represents a significant shift in how individuals view both travel and fitness. Lacing up running shoes in new cities not only connects runners to their surroundings but also fosters a sense of community among like-minded individuals. With more hotels and resorts embracing this movement, the runcation trend promises not just to persist but to evolve, offering travelers new ways to engage with the world around them.