Few races can match the sense of place offered by the 3 Islands Marathon. Set among the stunning landscapes of the Outer Hebrides, this unique Scottish Athletics certified marathon takes runners on a journey across three islands and through some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in the country.

Returning on 19 July 2026, the race starts at Lochboisdale Marina on the tiny island of Gasay before crossing onto South Uist for the majority of the route. The final miles take runners onto Benbecula, where the marathon finishes at the Dark Island Hotel after 26.2 memorable miles through the Hebridean landscape.

What makes the event especially distinctive is the variety of ways runners can take part. As well as the traditional solo marathon, competitors can enter as pairs or relay teams, with the course split into four legs ranging from approximately six to seven miles. There is also the popular Community Team format, where individual entrants are randomly drawn together to create relay teams, adding an extra social element to race day.

The scenery is naturally one of the event's biggest attractions. Open roads, expansive skies, sea views and the rugged beauty of the islands combine to create a marathon experience that feels very different from big city races. The challenge is substantial, but so too is the reward, with runners enjoying some of Scotland's most remote and memorable marathon terrain.

The event has built a loyal following over the years, attracting both local runners and visitors looking to combine racing with a Hebridean adventure. A finisher's medal, event clothing and plenty of island hospitality help complete the experience.

For runners seeking something beyond the ordinary marathon experience, the 3 Islands Marathon continues to offer one of the most distinctive race days anywhere in the UK.

Entries have closed but you can join a waiting list across all categories via Entry Central.

Image courtesy 3 Islands Marathon on Facebook