Kickstart your new year with an invigorating run in one of the country's most stunning locations as Fitnessat58degrees's popular Loch Morlich Running Festival returns to the Cairngorms on Sunday 2 January.

The Loch Morlich Running Festival has grown in popularity over the last four years with its 5K and 10K events becoming favourites with runners who want to test themselves while enjoying the Cairngorms as a beautiful race backdrop. The date of this event also makes it the perfect opportunity to kickstart the new year with 'start as you mean to go on' mentality!

The fun run can be completed by total beginners or elite runners, all standards are welcome. The course allows runners to take in some of the best views of the Cairngorms before finishing on Loch Morlich beach itself. Both courses (exact distances 5.6K and 11.2K) are on forest tracks with stunning views throughout as you make your way through Glenmore Forest to the beachfront finish.

Previous entrant, Terri Walker, commented on Facebook: "I’ve run this a couple of times and really love the routes and the cakes at the end!"

Organisers say: "Our event is very welcoming, we will support you if you decide to walk the course or you are chasing a personal best. We'll be there to cheer you home on the beautiful beachfront finish."

Entry to the events includes a professionally taken warm up with Fitnessat58degrees instructor Sam Cairns, chip timing with results sent out on the day, a well-deserved medal and home baking at the finishline.

Find out more at the event website.

Image: Fitnessat58degrees