San Sebastian Marathon 2024

Let's get right to it, we're taking you on a journey through the « Zurich Maratón San Sebastián », also known as the San Sebastian Marathon. Located in the Basque Country, San Sebastián hosts a race that transcends the average sporting event! Beyond the legendary marathon, you can take on a brand new distance, the half-marathon. Or, opt for the traditional 10 km. Finally, the Gonsaria Run, a 7 km race, offers a spectacular journey through the impressive Concha Bay. This event promises an extraordinary and unique landscape, just 20 km from France 🇫🇷. As for the weather, November is traditionally rainy and chilly in the Basque Country, so make sure to dress warmly 🥶. All things considered, you're in for a total change of scenery. Does that whet your appetite? 🤤 Well, let's dive into the rest of the program… 😁

But before you tackle the 42 km, let's share a bit more about its history... Did you know the San Sebastián marathon is the second oldest marathon in Spain 🥈? It was established in 1978, Surrounded by mountains 🏔️, Donostia (the city's Basque name) is truly unique. The Basque culture will surprise you, its architecture will enchant you, and its landscapes will take your breath away. But you'll need to hit the ground running, or "put the pedal to the metal," to break your record 🚀. Yes, you're about to participate in one of Spain's fastest marathons 🏃💨.

The course is a 21 km road circuit you'll run twice ✌🏼. The route mainly winds through the city center, charming you with its characteristic architecture. During your epic journey on the Basque city's tarmac, you'll cross the Urumea River before running along the stunning Concha Bay. With its beach 🏖️, waves 🌊, and superb scenery, it's a jewel of the Basque coast you simply can't miss 💍. As you run along the bay, remember to look up at the Sacred Heart statue atop Mount Urgull, reminiscent of the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, but smaller 🗽. Along the way, you'll pass numerous landmarks like the Miramar Palace, the famous Don Quijote y Sancho sculpture, and the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd of Saint-Sebastian. The grand finale takes you to the stronghold of the legendary Real Sociedad football club, the Estadio Anoeta ⚽.

What better way to celebrate this monumental achievement than with some delicious Pintxos (a type of Tapas) accompanied by a local cider or a Txakoli (white wine), enjoyed in moderation of course 😉. You can also take advantage of the "Feria Del Corredor," a sports expo dedicated to running where you'll meet various stakeholders in the running community 🎽. Alternatively, you can explore the city to visit all the monuments you encountered during your race. Or venture further along the coast to Bilbao, the Basque capital. Heading inland, you'll arrive at Pamplona, home to the iconic Saint Mary's Cathedral ⛪.

After such an experience, it's no surprise if San Sebastián captures your heart for quite some time 😁.