Run in Paradise at the Mauritius Marathon July 2017
Upon arriving at a tropical paradise such as Mauritius, most travellers are inclined to look for the first available deck chair, call for a large piña colada and not get up again until it’s time for dinner. And then there are the travellers who challenge themselves to see the island from a different angle. Welcome to the Mauritius Marathon.
The marathon is held on Sunday 16 July 2017 on the stunning island of Mauritius. More than 100 years ago, writer Mark Twain visited this tiny Indian Ocean island and said “Mauritius was made first and then heaven, and that heaven was copied after Mauritius”. He was right. This little dot of lush volcanic mountains, golden beaches and fringing reefs is indeed paradise.
The Mauritius Marathon makes the most of the one-of-a-kind setting and the 42-kilometre race takes runners through some of the island’s most stunning locations.
A new course was set out for the marathon in 2016. The race runs in a loop, starting and finishing at Saint Felix beach, a small strip of sand in the island’s south. The route runs along the southern coast, arguably the most beautiful in the country, past beaches, lagoons, jungle and mountains.
If you’re not up for the full distance, there are half marathon and 10 kilometre options available for those who still want to hit the track.
The race itself is a unique experience. It’s one of the smallest in the world, with less than 500 runners in total and only around 150 completing the full marathon. There are a few elite runners amongst the crowd, though the majority are amateurs.
It’s elements like these that create a genuine sense of community among the runners and the Mauritian people themselves. But that’s not to say that it’s not a professional outfit – the marathon was established in 2010 and is currently under the direction of the race director of the Paris Marathon.
The island has something of an adventure focus year-round, with other events like the Royal Raid trail run – from 15 to 80 kilometres – and the Indian Ocean Triathlon held throughout the year.
Despite its exotic location, the Mauritius Marathon is actually one of the easiest international races to access. Mauritius is only an eight-hour direct flight from Perth twice a week.
Despite its exotic location, the Mauritius Marathon is actually one of the easiest international races to access. Mauritius is only an eight-hour direct flight from Perth twice a week. July offers ideal temperatures for running with plenty of sunshine plus it’s the perfect month to escape a dreary Australian winter. You’ll be able to run the race then relax and recover in paradise.
And if you’re not a runner or you want to print your partner and family along for the rise, you’ve come to the right place. This little island offers pristine beaches, hiking trails through lush forest, a vibrant local food scene, incredible snorkelling sites, a dozen world-class golf courses, five-star hotels, spas and much more. Runners and their whole support crew will be thoroughly entertained.
Forth & Wonder is an official partner of the Mauritius Marathon and offer personalised travel and accommodation packages to help get you there. Explore travel packages here then get in touch to start planning your dream Mauritius escape. Email curious@forthandwonder.com.au or call 03 9045 9819.
