Marathon du Médoc
When it comes to marathons, there’s only one choice for the aspiring gentleman runner: France’s Marathon du Médoc. Swap the bottles of Lucozade for glasses of wine at this romantic 26.2-miler, set in France’s idyllic Médoc region. Choose between red or white at the 23 aid stations, which also lay on a hearty array of steak, oysters, ice cream, cheese and waffles. It’s fair to say that you’re unlikely to be breaking any PBs, but you will earn some serious brownie points.
Romance rating: 5/5
Valentine’s 10K
What better way to reaffirm your love for one another than by taking part in a race on Valentine’s Day? OK, we admit it: there’s nothing overtly lovey-dovey about this flat and fast 10K in the London borough of Kingston-upon-Thames. But think of it like this: you’ll have really earned that candle-lit dinner in the evening.
Romance rating: 3/5
Venice Marathon
Better known for its gondolas than its long-distance races, Venice is nonetheless home to a well respected 26.2-miler. Take your beloved for a romantic marathon weekend in this floating paradise. The local pasta will also make for some great pre-race carbo-loading and a chance to impress with your expert grasp of the Italian language. Molto bene!
Romance rating: 4/5