If taking on a marathon, triathlon or other sporting challenge is in your New Year’s resolutions, why not tag a holiday onto it? Apparently it’s a thing: the ‘race-cation’ (when you complete some sort of outdoor challenge either side of a holiday) is srising in popularity and we're here for it—what a great excuse to book a holiday! There are lots of marathons, triathlons, vertical kilometres and swim races in the Balkans in 2026, where you’ll compete against the backdrop of the Dinaric Alps, Dalmatian coast, ancient forests and crumbling old towns. Many pair up nicely with our adventure holidays. Read on to find out what's happening in Croatia, Albania, Montenegro, Serbia, Bosnia and more throughout 2026 and start planning your race-cation now. Marathons & sporting events in Croatia 2026 From running to wild swimming and high-altitude challenges, there’s lots for sporty folk in Croatia. After an adrenaline-fuelled event with hundreds of people, slow things down and rejuvenate with our Southern Dalmatia holiday, which blends sightseeing with adventure activities in the incredibly pretty and peaceful Ston. XTERRA Croatia When: 8–10th May 2026 Where: Mali Lošinj This three-day off-road triathlon takes place in the beautiful coastal town of Mali Lošinj and offers thrilling challenges for all abilities, from elite competitors to weekend warriors and kids. Over the course of three days, you’ll trail run, swim and mountain bike your way to victory. Youth Skyrunning World Championships When: 8–10th May 2026 Where: Makarska This year will be the 10th edition of the Youth Skyrunning World Championships in Croatia, where young athletes embark on a scenic high altitude running challenge in the picturesque port town of Masarska. UltraSwim 33.3 Croatia When: 15–18th May 2026 Where: Hvar Hvar isn’t just for beach parties—the UltraSwim 33.3 open-water swim challenge starts in the ancient town of
If taking on a marathon, triathlon or other sporting challenge is in your New Year’s resolutions, why not tag a holiday onto it? Apparently it’s a thing: the ‘race-cation’ (when you complete some sort of outdoor challenge either side of a holiday) is srising in popularity and we’re here for it—what a great excuse to
The western Balkans boasts some of the best white water rafting in Europe, thanks to a wealth of wild waterways slicing through the karst landscapes there. Combine riding the rapids with this region’s unrivalled natural beauty, rich history and unique culture and you’ve got one heck of an adventure – you won’t believe you’re still in Europe. From leapfrogging down the Tara river to paddling down one of Europe’s last true wild rivers in Albania, see our roundup of the best rafting spots in the western Balkans below. We’ve also included our practical tips and FAQs about this exhilarating sport for newcomers. Ready for a splash of excitement? Join us on a guided rafting adventure as part of one of our multi-activity Balkan holidays. Jump to: When to go rafting Rapid grades explained The best rafting destinations in the Balkans What to wear Safety tips Physical fitness & medical conditions The best time to go rafting Deciding when to book your rafting adventure in Europe depends on the weather and your level of experience. You’ll find the highest water levels, and therefore strongest rapids, in spring due to snowmelt running off the mountains at this time of year. Therefore, Easter is a perfect time to book your rafting holiday if you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie. For families and beginners who’d prefer to start off a little gentler, aim for July and August when water levels aren’t as high and the rapids are tamer (plus the water is warmer if you do go overboard!) Whitewater rapid grades explained Rivers are internationally graded from I-VI depending on factors such as gradient, how fast and smoothly they flow, and obstacles such as rocks you will need to maneuver around. The higher the grade, the more difficult the river is to navigate.
The western Balkans boasts some of the best white water rafting in Europe, thanks to a wealth of wild waterways slicing through the karst landscapes there. Combine riding the rapids with this region’s unrivalled natural beauty, rich history and unique culture and you’ve got one heck of an adventure – you won’t believe you’re still
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