To go running or go jogging in Thailand is to drift between tropical scenery, vibrant cities and ancient sites of spirituality. The country is famed for its ornate, yet serene temples, white sandy beaches and renowned cuisine. So, is it any wonder that sight-runners love Thailand?
Jogging is the best way for running or fitness enthusiasts to get their fix while taking in the sights. Four Seasons Resorts Thailand concierge teams charts routes with local guides who knows the best urban trails and natural tracks in Thailand.
K2 Run at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
For guests looking to stay active on holiday, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui offers an invigorating full-body workout in the outdoors. “Our experiences are designed to allow guests a guilt-free vacation, with some fun, sun and sea thrown in while enjoying the lush tropical outdoors and island life,” smiles Hannes Schneider, Resort Manager.
For running enthusiasts, the Resort has a not-to-be-missed fitness challenge called the Koh Samui K2 Run. Starting at the beach, the route takes guests all the way up to the Resort’s highest point – the Arrival Sala – which is 120 metres (400 feet) above sea level. The K2 Run boasts an amphitheatre of sun, sand and sea as the perfect backdrop for a relaxing getaway from concrete jungles. Soothing for the eyes, pleasing on the ears – the experience here will leave one rejuvenated with renewed spirit and energy.
Abundant with coconut plantations, Koh Samui is filled with beautiful sights and secrets – none more scenic for dining, picnics and strolls than the beaches that surround the Resort. Built on an old orchard, the Resort’s 17 hectares (42 acres) features 856 coconut palms and 150 varieties of plants including tropical fruits and flowers – perfect therapy for tired city-eyes. “We have had guests who’ve come back to challenge their previous recorded timing,” smiles Hannes. “It gets quite competitive with guests who run regularly – especially when it’s only a matter of seconds between each other!”
Running Trails at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is an extraordinary countryside hideaway with manicured rivers of green through the beautiful Mae Rim valley. The garden - reminiscent of the ancient Lanna Kingdom and quilted with a variety of special touches, volcanic stone paths, over-bridges, and rushing rivers - is a feast for the eyes. For running enthusiasts, the Resort provides the outdoor running trail starting at the lobby at 0.90 kilometres (0.55 mile). “Our route takes guests all the way to the rice paddies and tropical gardens of the Resort, which have flourished under the magic touch of famed landscape architect Bill Bensley, whose love of Asian botanicals is clearly reflected in the effortlessly lush scenery.” shares Anthony Tschudin, Resort Manager.
Camp Peak Hike at Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle
Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle offers one of the most secluded experiences that will inspire guests to leave their gadgets behind and seize the day. “We encourage you to join a one-of-a-kind hiking adventure to disconnect from the internet and reconnect with yourself amid the lush jungle setting,” smiles Paweena Waraha, Camp Manager. Sunrise and sunset are gifts bestowed by nature every single day. But with busy work schedules, one is seldom inspired to enjoy these natural phenomena. The solution? “Wake up early, hike up to our Camp Peak (one kilometre or 0.62 mile), the highest point of the Camp, and take in stunning views of the sun rising above the Mekong River and the mountains of Laos at around a quarter past six in the morning,” shares Paweena.
Ready for the challenge? Don’t forget to look out for the jogging map - from Northern Thailand’s Golden Triangle and Chiang Mai to Koh Samui, this country of many faces has something for every kind of runner to explore.