TORONTO - Running could simply be a means of travelling from point A to point B. As a marathoner, I’ve often run home from, say, a dentist’s appointment rather than hopping on public transit. But anyone who is addicted to the sport will tell you that running can also be a deciding factor when you choose a travel destination.

“When and where do I want to run a marathon?” becomes a key question when you’re looking for a vacation spot. So, tie up those laces on get on with your training because here are just a few exciting races to set your sights on:

ATHENS CLASSIC MARATHON

Serious marathoners will want to run where the race started — in the town of Marathon, Greece. The 42.2-kilometre distance is, according to legend, how far the messenger Pheidippides, ran from the battlefield at Marathon to Athens to share the news of a Greek victory over Persian invaders. The finish line is at Panathenaic Stadium, where the Olympic Games were held in 1896 — crossing that finish, whatever your race time, is sure to make you feel like a gold-medal champion.

BIG SUR INTERNATIONAL MARATHON

As if you need any extra motivation to get yourself down to the stunning California coast. The route is along U.S. Hwy 1 from Big Sur to the beyond-pretty city of Carmel. It’s hilly, but the salty air and to-die-for Pacific Ocean views will make every step worth it.

GREAT WALL MARATHON

Expect steep inclines and declines and don’t expect a personal best in this “monumental” marathon. We hear it might even take up to 50 per cent longer than your usual marathon time. There are more than 5,000 steps to navigate, so your glutes and calves will definitely be feeling the pain, but you’ll be rewarded with awesome views of the world’s greatest man-made wonder.

BOSTON MARATHON

Boston is the oldest race in the United States and you have to qualify with a marathon time (which vary for age and gender) — which is why it’s a significant goal for most marathon runners. You get to see Hopkinton (just outside of Boston), along with tackling Heartbreak Hill, and finally you cross the finish line on Boylston Street. The tragedy in 2013 has no doubt also made it a particularly moving event for both runners and their loved ones alike.

BIG FIVE MARATHON

Cross two things off your bucket list: run a marathon and go on safari. This race in Limpopo, South Africa, traverses the Entabeni Game Reserve, where you can spot giraffes, zebras, antelopes and lions. Usually, you carry as little as possible during a race, but for this one you might want to bring your camera.

EDGE TO EDGE MARATHON

We couldn’t omit a race from our home and native land. The Edge to Edge Marathon, which winds from Tofino to Ucluelet along the coast of Vancouver Island, will have you running in fresh ocean air, going through rain forests and enjoying some of the best scenery nature has to offer.