The racing calendar in Cyprus, like in many places, is waking up from a long and unexpected global pause. Before this, new races were appearing every season. As trail running grew in popularity, so did new challenges, routes, and distances on both trails and roads. Here are some of the races announced for the rest of 2025.
The island offers incredible terrain, from the coast to the mountains. Many new races, both on roads and trails, have gained popularity. Some races could even be considered “cross-country.” These are less technical than trail races but just as fun. They offer stunning views and an authentic experience of Cyprus’s rural landscapes.
With the rise of local running clubs and teams, smaller races now take place almost every weekend. No matter where you’re staying, you won’t have to travel far to reach a start line.
ROAD MARATHONS IN CYPRUS
The Cyprus Marathon
The Cyprus Marathon has taken place since 1999 in Paphos, a coastal town known for its scenic beauty and historic charm. It starts at the breathtaking birthplace of Aphrodite, where runners witness a stunning sunrise over the Mediterranean as they take off. Since this is a point-to-point race, organizers transport participants to the start before they embark on a coastal road adventure. The course passes through traditional villages and golden fields, creating an unforgettable running experience filled with natural beauty and cultural charm.
This was where I ran my first full-distance road marathon, and I always try to return for another incredible experience. The finish line awaits at Paphos’ quaint port, right by the medieval castle, where a lively celebration takes place. Music, traditional dancing, and plenty of beer add to the festive atmosphere as runners cross the finish line. A half marathon and a 10km race also finish there, making the event feel fun, friendly, and welcoming.
Traditionally held in spring, the Cyprus Marathon had to reschedule, and it is now planned for 8-9 March 2025.
Limassol Marathon
The second biggest city of Cyprus, after the capital Nicosia, is Limassol. And it also hosts a well organized full and half marathon, a 10km run, and a 5km corporate-run. The local athletes are also competing in it for the island’s championship. It is a relatively flat course, mainly along the coast, starting and finishing at the famous and recently upscaled, sea-side Molos Park. With a nice fun atmosphere, it is very popular with locals and visitors that enjoy the run under pleasant weather. A dip in the sea will await you at the finish. (May I admit that I have run the Limassol Marathon 7 years in a row, and it is where I got my Boston Qualifier time!)
The Limassol Marathon is now announced to take place on 22-23 March 2025.
Larnaca Marathon
DATE: 16 November 2025
Larnaca, the 3rd coastal town of Cyprus, has recently entered the Marathon scene quite successfully. As the town has done a lot of improvement work in all aspects, including the arts, sports and its infrastructure, the announcement of the Larnaca Marathon in 2017 was well received and well attended. I only ran it in its first edition, and although the course is a double loop of the half marathon course that also takes place, it doesn’t lack the thrills and beauty of a coastal and relatively flat course. The event got excellent reviews, and it’s established itself as a well-organized event.
Nicosia Marathon
Date: 7 December 2025
And now it is time for the capital, Nicosia. Back in the day, when the only runners competing in a full marathon were the ones that were registered at the athletic clubs, I remember watching them near my house. There were probably a dozen runners racing, maybe one or two females, hardly any spectators. And I believe the marathon consisted of several loops around the centre of the city. Running was not yet a popular sport, and this running race, as far as I know, was not open for non-registered athletes.
Eventually, the running boom hit the island big time. However, the capital didn’t have a full Marathon until 2010 when the first open Nicosia Marathon was announced and created a wonderful festive gathering of runners, from beginners to more experienced, by introducing a fun 5km corporate event. The organizers used an iconic spot of the old town, the Famagusta Gate, one of the Medieval gates of its walls, for the start and finish. It was an event that was much needed in the capital and was embraced by locals. Many people admit to taking up running because of that event that continues to be part of their lives. Now things will be a bit confusing if you google Nicosia Marathon.
Unfortunately, the original event had to be cancelled the past few years due to unforeseen events of the main sponsors, but we hear it’s coming back. In the meantime, another marathon was organized twice in Nicosia. It was also named Nicosia Marathon, plus the name of the sponsor, with a start and finish in the municipality of Strovolos.
Links for both:
https://www.nicosiamarathon.com/
https://nicosiamarathon.cy/
TRAIL AND CROSS-COUNTRY RACES IN CYPRUS
Cyprus Trail Runners
The Cyprus Trail Runners introduced trail running to the island over ten years ago, in a friendly and low-key way. This was before the sport’s popularity exploded. I was lucky to meet them back then and have been hooked ever since! Their events remain friendly, innovative, and deeply respectful of local communities and nature.
Whether in the mountains or along the coast, their races focus on running free and wild. It’s about exploring the island, not gathering large crowds or handing out glossy trophies. One of their events, the Midsummer Madness Coastal Marathon and Half, takes place in the peak of summer heat. They also introduced a new ultra race, Sea to Sky Trail Ultra (120km), but paused it for 2023. This event promises 5,500 meters of elevation and an exciting challenge. Runners can compete solo, in a team relay, or over two consecutive days. Bring it on!
Troodos Terra Races
Dromea Racing Club, one of the island’s biggest and most popular running clubs, introduced the Green Trail Race in the Troodos mountains ten years ago. The race covered 15km on well-known trails and included a climb to the island’s peak. Over the years, demand grew for longer and more challenging courses. In response, Dromea Running Club added two more races. These took place on the same day in late June after being canceled the previous year. The new events included a 29km climb to the peak and a 44km trail marathon. The races are always well-organized, with ample aid stations, strong support, and stunning mountain views.
On Top of Cyprus
On Top of Cyprus This circular route on a 1,700-1,850 meter elevation is definitely the run to go on to catch breathtaking 360-degree views of the island! This is trail running at its best with mostly flat stretches for both beginners and experienced trail runners.
Mylikouri Trail Run
A new trail running series of races has entered the running scene this year, organized by the group behind (the newer) Nicosia Marathon. It offers different distances date for 2025 to be confirmed with 30km, 20km and 10km on trails in the Mylikouri village area. The area is beautiful and offers stunning views.
Under the Moon
A very popular and fun night city-run, named “Under the Moon” has been rescheduled for 13 June 2025. This race promises to be, as always, a meeting point for all runners just before the summer holidays begin for most. The two distances of 10km and 5km usually sell out fast as its festive atmosphere on a warm summer evening in Nicosia has proven to be very popular.
Lefkara Country Challenge
Last but not least-I simply have to mention yet another addition to the racing calendar 2024, at the historic and well-known traditional village of Lefkara. A vertical 4km challenge on the road, just all straight up rescheduled for 12-13 April 2025. In October, the village of Lefkara will host the 23km and 13km “Lefkara Country Challenge”.
A dozen more races are scheduled, from 5km to ultra distances. You can find most of them here.
As more details are announced, I will come back with an update.
Pola Hadjipapa – City Manager Go Running Tours Nicosia.
Hola! If running and traveling are two of your favorite things, you’ll love our tours of more than 60+ cities.
Check HERE. Thank me later.
