Lausanne 20Km

A hugely popular annual event in the cathedral city, the Lausanne 20km actually comprises four running races – from 2km to 20km – plus a walking race and junior races over the course of two days. Now in its 35th year, it was the idea of Juan-Antonio Samaranch, the then-president of the International Olympic Committee, which is headquartered in Lausanne. While the range of races means anyone can have a go, you need strong legs to tackle the classic 20km, which leads runners from the start at Vidy on the shore of Lake Geneva along to Ouchy and then up the long hill all the way to the cathedral, before heading back down again. You’ve just got to hope it doesn’t rain, like last year.