It's that time of year again where runners and walkers of all levels dust off their running gear in preparation for the
Vhi Women's Mini Marathon.
The 2019 event will take place on Sunday June 2, giving participants plenty of time to get up to speed ahead of the big day. Every year, thousands of women travel from all over Ireland and beyond to take part and raise money for causes close to their hearts.
If you're struggling for motivation to kick off your training - we're lucky enough to live in a country with countless running routes that are surrounded by breath-taking scenery (and gorgeous lunch spots).
From scenic coastal routes to gorgeous river runs and everything in between, this island is bursting with tracks and trails which will help you prepare yourself for the 2019
Vhi Women's Mini Marathon. While training in your regular surroundings is all well and good, there's a lot to be said for hitting the road and taking in some of the best running routes around the country, and grabbing some well-deserved grub afterwards.
If you haven't signed up yet, you better get moving as places are filling up fast. All you have to do is register via this
link. After that, take your pick from the following awe-inspiring trails which will have you raring to go in time for the starting line.
Gap Of Dunloe, Co. Kerry
The sheer beauty of Kerry is no secret to anyone but what may be less obvious is that the county offers fun-filled days out for runners of all levels.
Make your way towards the Head Of The Gap before taking in the panoramic views of Killarney from the top.
You won't even feel the time going by as your run takes you around the lakes of Killarney, taking in the stunning natural scenery that will give you just the right amount of inspiration to carry you over the line in June.
After working up an appetite, you can wrap up a perfect afternoon by stopping at the adorable Kate Kearney's cottage for a spot of lunch.
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Kilkenny to Bennettsbridge
Flat surfaces and uninterrupted river views are the order of the day at this running route on the edge of Kilkenny city.
Follow the River Nore as it meanders away from the town centre and into the peaceful countryside of Bennettsbridge.
Along the way, you'll be able to spot a range of Irish wildlife including otters, salmon and even bats, giving your eyes a treat as your body gets a workout.
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If you’re thinking of signing up for the 2019
Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon, be sure to keep an eye out on Lovin.ie for more articles which will include training tips and the best routes around Ireland to set you on your way.
Sound good? The first step is to register for the event on the Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon website. Once that’s done, your journey has begun!
Keem Bay, Achill Island, Co. Mayo
One of the most picturesque places in the whole of Ireland.
The long, sandy beach is ideal for a peaceful run with the Atlantic Ocean waves providing the perfect soothing soundtrack.
Cool down afterwards by taking a dip in the sea before having lunch at Gielty's Clew Bay, the most westerly pub in Europe.
