The Mudgee Running Festival is a brilliant country event in the heart of one of New South Wales' best food and wine regions. Starting and finishing at Lawson Park, the courses weave through the picturesque Mudgee valley past vineyards, wineries, farmland and grazing cattle, with enthusiastic local volunteers cheering you the whole way.
There's a full marathon, half marathon, 10km and a 5km fun run/walk, so there's something for every level. The rural roads are gently rolling and scenic, making the longer distances a genuine pleasure rather than a grind — just watch for a few country undulations.
Held in August, conditions are usually cool and ideal for distance running. Mudgee is an easy few hours from Sydney and an outstanding weekend destination, so book accommodation early and plan a cellar-door visit or two as your recovery reward. Entry prices step up as race day nears, so get in early at the official Mudgee Running Festival website.
