Australia’s appetite for running hit an all-time high in 2024. If you didn't join a run club at some point, you’re almost in the minority. Given its surge in popularity, it’s a natural progression that running has turned into one of the biggest travel trends of 2025. In fact, new data from Skyscanner reveals that 50 per cent of Aussies are planning a ‘runcation’.
If you’re not a runner, the thought of flying somewhere to voluntarily break a sweat (and maybe a few bones) probably sounds wild. But you know what they say about that runner’s high!
A solid 39 per cent of the 2,000 Aussies surveyed say they’re travelling for a marathon in 2025 – and the numbers back it up. Searches for flights to Adelaide during the Bravehearts' 777 Marathon in Glenelg are up 15 per cent year-on-year, while the Perth Marathon in October has seen a massive 36 per cent spike.
It’s not just about crossing the finish line either. Almost half (45 per cent) of Australians say they’re motivated to engage in ‘run travel’ as a way to explore new places, and more than 80 per cent plan to extend their stay beyond the race to explore the destination further. In fact, 45 per cent have added an extra three to four days, and a third are willing to spend between $2,000 and $3,000 on an overseas running trip.
From world-famous marathons to off-the-grid trails, Skyscanner has teamed up with Aussie running legends Lachlan and Stefen Lamble – brothers behind Lambros Army – to map out the world’s top running destinations. One of their top ten global picks is the Adelaide Hills, particularly the Waterfall Gully and Mount Lofty route in Cleland National Park or the Belair Park Waterfall Circuit. Both trails are a bit off the beaten track, offering a mix of short ascents and descents across diverse terrain to build endurance, plus stunning views of the city as your reward. You can check out more of the world's most amazing running destinations here.