The most beautiful marathon in the world

2025 Event Source: volkswirtschaftbeo.ch

The official website calls it the most beautiful marathon in the world—and after watching it year after year, I couldn’t agree more. On 4–5 September 2026, around 4,000 runners will line up at the start of the Jungfrau Marathon. Supported by 1,500 volunteers, they will make their way from Interlaken, around the 15-kilometre Lauterbrunnen Valley loop, and then begin the long climb towards the Jungfrau.

The runners stream past the apartment building, and it is always exciting to cheer them on as they begin their challenging ascent to Wengen. This section is known as “The Wall”, where competitors must negotiate 22 switchbacks, climbing 478 metres in just 5 kilometres to reach the alpine village. The gradient is unforgiving, and the vast majority of runners are forced to switch to a power walk to preserve both their calves and their heart rates.

Beyond Wengen, the course continues its relentless climb across the Wengernalp. The trail narrows into rugged gravel tracks as it rises above the tree line, revealing spectacular views of the Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger peaks. The finish line lies higher still, at Eigergletscher (Eiger Glacier), 2,320 metres above sea level. The final kilometres demand an agonising effort over loose glacier moraine, where a lone bagpiper is often waiting to signal that the finish is finally within reach.
Adding further prestige to this year’s event, Dario Cologna, the former cross-country skier and multiple Olympic medallist from Graubünden, will also compete. The day before the marathon, he will present awards to participants in the youth event.
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As the runners pass by and begin their climb towards the mountains, you can feel the excitement throughout the valley. We invite you to join us for this remarkable weekend and experience firsthand why so many people consider the Jungfrau Marathon the most beautiful marathon in the world.​https://www.jungfrau-marathon.ch/en/