The Berenloop on Terschelling is widely called one of the most beautiful, and toughest, marathons in the country. Named after Willem Barentsz, the island’s 16th century explorer whose crew hunted polar bears to survive an Arctic winter, it sends runners through villages, forest, dunes, across the Boschplaat and along the beach.
The whole island joins in, and many runners turn it into a weekend away. This is the 29th edition.
- When: Saturday 31 October 2026 (5 km, 10 km and youth run) and Sunday 1 November 2026 (half marathon 12:00, marathon 12:40)
- Where: Start and finish at Brandarisplein, by the Brandaris lighthouse, West-Terschelling
- Distances: Marathon, half marathon, 10 km, 5 km and a youth run
- Tickets: Online registration only via the official site, no late entries. Check the official site for prices and availability
- Getting there: Train to Harlingen Haven, then the Rederij Doeksen ferry to West-Terschelling. Brandarisplein is a short walk from the harbour
Good to know: Book your ferry and accommodation early, as the island fills up on Berenloop weekend.
More races and walks: Running and walking events in the Netherlands 2026.
