If you're planning to run the Reykjavik Marathon this August, Iceland is a spectacular place to run.
The Marathon Course
The marathon course is a mix of suburban homes, cultural artifacts, and wild ocean landscapes. The race begins downtown, within easy walking distance of many hotels. It winds around the downtown core, through shipyards, towards the suburbs and the large complex that contains an athletic centre and the Reykjavik Botanical Gardens. The course then loops back over the highway and along the coast, past the thermal beach and into the downtown core. The course is beautiful and wild, while at other times it is an ordinary run through the suburbs and over highways.
The Reykjavik Marathon course is predominantly flat, but there can be a lot of wind. Focus on training for the wind. The marathon course closes after eight hours, so it is a good run for beginning marathoners.
The People of the Reykjavik Marathon
As most marathons do, the Reykjavik Marathon has a selection of elite runners. However, there are also many novice runners, many locals who choose to do the half or full marathon, and a large group of those who are running for charity.
Friendly first aid people patrol the race course, and it is well-marked with flag people at intersections. There are numerous hydration stops with Gatorade, water and fruit. Along the way, spectators cheer on the runners with homemade signs and musical instruments. The day of the marathon is Culture Day in Reykjavik, and the marathon is part of the festivities.
Weather During the Marathon
While the Icelandic climate is not always cold and snowy, be prepared for change. This is a country of rainbows, because the sun often shines through the rain and clouds. Be prepared for intense wind and rain. Bring extra food, a hat, and a garbage bag to ward off the cold. Although some runners are comfortable in a short-sleeved technical shirt, it would be advisable to bring a long-sleeved shirt to prepare for all weather conditions.
Visiting Iceland Before and After the Marathon
Iceland is a beautiful and friendly country. There are many geothermal hotspots to explore. Trips to areas such as Geyser and the Blue Lagoon are simple and readily accessible through local tour companies. The country is a wonderful destination for those who are interested in nature and adventure. To get a taste of local culture, ride an Icelandic horse or go swimming in one of the many public pools and hot pools available.
Reykjavik has a thriving arts, culture and night life. There is a lot of public art. Enjoy the stunning architecture in Reykjavik. Explore the crafts that are created with Icelandic wool. The art and culture scene culminates on the evening after the marathon on Culture Night. The streets come alive with music, buildings open their doors for art exhibits and discussion, and vendors sell regional specialties on the street. The evening finishes with a fireworks display.
Iceland is also a very expensive country, more expensive on average than Great Britain, for example. Eating out is a treat. Balancing restaurant food and food purchased from the grocery store will lead to a more moderate food bill. Farms, guesthouses and hostels tend to be less expensive than a hotel. Surprisingly, many tours are fairly reasonably priced.
Enjoy Iceland during the Reykjavik Marathon! This marathon experience is once in a lifetime.
