The Isle of Wight Marathon Trilogy

So here is a running challenge I cooked up to challenge myself this year, and I thought some others might want to take it on.

The version I’m doing is to circumnavigate the Isle of Wight, by running 3 marathons, over 3 days.

The route uses mostly the Isle of Wight Coastal Path, but starting and ending in Newport which adds on the extra distance to make 3 marathons. Please be aware that sections of the path do get closed for repairs etc, so check the route first, and be prepared to divert inland where needed.

The challenge starts at the Bargemans Rest pub in Newport, heads north and then picks up the coastal path around the Island. A mere 3 marathons later, you will arrive back at the Bargemans Rest to rehydrate with a pint of beer 🙂

There are a couple of variations you might want to consider. The ‘lite’ version involves doing the marathons a week apart on successive weekends.

Marathon 1 – The North East

https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/2853626539

Distance – 26.7 miles
Elevation – 1,457ft

Starting from the Bargemans in Newport, this route heads north to East Cowes, where you pick up the coastal path. This takes you via Fishbourne, Ryde, Seaview and Bembridge.

A run up over Culver Down, and then a run down through Yaverland and to Shanklin to finish Day 1 at the car park at Small Hope Beach.

Marathon 2 – South Coast

https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/2853784378

Distance – 26.2 miles
Elevation – 2,451ft

Picking up at Small Hope Beach, this run follows the Coastal Path all round the back (South) of the Isle of Wight, passing Ventnor, Blackgang and all along the south east coast, over Tennyson Down to finish in the car park at Alum Bay. This is a hilly one!

Marathon 3 – North West

https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/2853817147

Distance – 26.2 miles
Elevation – 1,209ft

The final leg picks up again at the Alum Bay car park. Up over Headon Warren to start, then follow the coast through Totland, Yarmouth, the estuary through Newtown, on to Gurnard, Cowes and then follow the cycle path to Newport and the Bargemans Rest.