Jungfrau-Marathon

The Jungfrau-Marathon, first held in 1993, has grown into one of the world's most iconic mountain marathons, drawing thousands of runners from around the globe to the Bernese Oberland each September. Renowned for its dramatic elevation gain and alpine setting, the race celebrates Swiss mountain culture and endurance running with a long history of attracting elite mountain runners and enthusiastic amateurs alike. Over the years it has become a bucket-list event for trail and road marathoners who seek the challenge of a high-altitude, uphill finish and the chance to race beneath the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks. The course starts in Interlaken and winds through picturesque Swiss villages, alongside rivers and through forested trails before turning into a sustained climb through alpine meadows and switchbacks, finishing near the Kleine Scheidegg with panoramic views of the Eiger North Face. Runners experience a unique mix of well-paved road sections, charming village streets and steeper mountain roads; the scenic route provides constant visual reward even as the gradient intensifies. The atmosphere is festive and supportive — local bands, enthusiastic spectators in villages, and alpine volunteers create a warm, communal vibe that balances the race's physical demands with Swiss hospitality. The Jungfrau-Marathon is AIMS-certified and listed as a World Athletics-approved course, and it is recognized as a qualifying race for the Boston Marathon, subject to certification rules and entrant eligibility. The official event website (https://www.jungfrau-marathon.ch/en/) provides detailed course profiles, entry requirements, and logistical information for participants preparing for the 5 September 2026 edition, which starts at 08:30.