Half marathons in the canton of Lucerne

The half marathon in the canton of Lucerne features two benchmark events. The SwissCityMarathon Lucerne hosts its half in the heart of Lucerne, between the quays of Lake Lucerne and the wooden bridges 🌉. The Sempacherseelauf takes place in Sursee, on the shores of Lake Sempach, with a 21.1 km format that appeals both to runners chasing a time and to those who want to step up after a 10 km 🍃.

To prepare for a half marathon, focus on runs at a steady pace and a bit of hill work, because the roads around the lakes are never completely flat 🏃. The classic plan takes 8 to 10 weeks, with two short runs and one long run per week, plus a specific pace session every two weeks. The lakeside paths and country roads of Lucerne offer great training grounds all year round, with open views over the lakes and the Pre-Alps that make every run more enjoyable.

For variety, the neighbors offer other opportunities: the Hallwilerseelauf takes place in Aargau, on the shores of another lake 🌊, and Les Courses de Bienne offer a major popular event on the Bernese side 🏅. Both are within easy reach of Lucerne by road or train, making it easy to organize and to come home the same evening without stress, with time to enjoy a good meal with friends afterward.

The Lucerne half marathon calendar is concentrated in spring and autumn 📅. To complete your search, check out the 10 km races in the canton of Lucerne, the Zurich half marathons, the Bernese half marathons and the half marathons in Switzerland. Choose your goal, sign up a few months ahead and enjoy the preparation, because the road to the start line is also part of the fun, with lovely runs by the water and through the countryside.