Are you ready for an unforgettable running experience? The McLaren Vale Marathon is back, and it's making a bold move by relocating to the heart of McLaren Vale for the 2025 edition! This exciting change brings the marathon closer to the vibrant community, promising a race day like no other. Picture yourself running through picturesque vineyards, feeling the energy of the bustling town, and being cheered on by enthusiastic locals.

McLaren Vale Marathon Event Details:

  • Date: 1 June 2025
  • Location: McLaren Vale, South Australia
  • Distances: Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, Kids’ Dash

What The Runners Are Saying:

  • "Great location. Well organised. Great atmosphere. Fun." - Clare S
  • "A real focus on making the event for the runners." - Nick O
  • "Loved how it was a family-friendly event with all the kids activities, markets, food, and music." - Claire G
  • "The amount of toilets was OUTSTANDING! The course was OUTSTANDING. The communication was OUTSTANDING. The event was OUTSTANDING." - Corey P

McLaren Vale Marathon 2025 - Race Distances

Marathon

A Scenic Challenge Through the Vines

The McLaren Vale Marathon is a breathtaking run through South Australia’s renowned wine country, set against the stunning backdrop of the Southern Mount Lofty Ranges. This AIMS / World Athletics certified course is a two-lap journey that takes you through rolling vineyards, picturesque countryside, and smooth, sealed roads—offering a great opportunity for both competitive runners and first-time marathoners.

McLaren Vale Marathon Event Details

  • Date: Sunday 1 June 2025

  • Distance: 42.195 km

  • Start Time: 7:30 AM

  • Cut-Off Time: 5.5 hours

  • Start-Finish Line: Main Road, McLaren Vale

  • Age Limit: 18 years on race day

  • Online Registrations Close: Midnight on Thursday 29 May 2025

Entry Fees & Inclusions

  • Launch Pricing: $110 (until midnight on 10 November 2024)

  • Early Bird: $130

Your Entry Includes:
✔ Race Entry
✔ Post-Race Massage
✔ Free Race Day Photography
✔ Fully Stocked Aid Stations
✔ Race Day Medical Support
✔ Electronic Timing

McLaren Vale Marathon Course Overview

This scenic two-lap course starts in McLaren Vale town centre and heads south along Main Road before winding through Malpas Road, Binney Road, Strout Road, and McMurtrie Road. The route features approximately 260m of elevation change, ensuring a dynamic and rewarding challenge. With minimal twists and turns, it’s an ideal course for those looking to set a new personal best or simply soak in the breathtaking vineyard views.

Half Marathon

Run Amongst the Vines

The McLaren Vale Half Marathon offers a stunning single-lap route through South Australia's premium wine country, providing a fast, smooth course with rolling vineyard landscapes and distant mountain views. Certified by AIMS / World Athletics, this race is perfect for both seasoned half marathoners and newcomers looking for an unforgettable running experience.

Event Details

  • Date: Sunday 1 June 2025

  • Distance: 21.1 km

  • Start Time: 7:30 AM

  • Cut-Off Time: 3 hours

  • Start-Finish Line: Main Road, McLaren Vale

  • Age Limit: 15 years (unless accompanied by an adult)

  • Online Registrations Close: Midnight on Thursday 29 May 2025

Entry Fees & Inclusions

  • Launch Pricing: $85 (until midnight on 10 November 2024)

  • Early Bird: $95

Your Entry Includes:
✔ Race Entry
✔ Post-Race Massage
✔ Free Race Day Photography
✔ Fully Stocked Aid Stations
✔ Race Day Medical Support
✔ Electronic Timing

Course Overview

This one-lap course follows the same route as the marathon, covering the rolling roads of McLaren Vale’s scenic vineyard district. The course features approximately 130m of elevation change and is designed for runners seeking a fast and enjoyable race experience on sealed roads with minimal turns.

10K - Athletics SA Road Championship

Fast, Scenic, and Certified

The McLaren Vale 10K is an out-and-back road race that takes runners through some of the region’s most picturesque vineyard landscapes. In 2025, this event also hosts the Athletics South Australia 10K Road Championships, making it a must-run race for competitive athletes and recreational runners alike.

Event Details

  • Date: Sunday 1 June 2025

  • Distance: 10 km

  • Start Time: TBC

  • Cut-Off Time: 2 hours

  • Start-Finish Line: Main Road, McLaren Vale

  • Age Limit: 12 years (unless accompanied by an adult)

  • Online Registrations Close: Midnight on Thursday 29 May 2025

Entry Fees & Inclusions

  • Launch Pricing: $50 (until midnight on 10 November 2024)

  • Early Bird: $60

Your Entry Includes:
✔ Race Entry
✔ Finisher Medal
✔ Fully Stocked Aid Stations
✔ Race Day Medical Support
✔ Electronic Timing
✔ Access to the Post-Event Recovery Zone

Course Overview

The 10K route is a fast, out-and-back course, beginning in McLaren Vale town centre and running south along Main Road before a turnaround on Malpas Road. Featuring just two 90-degree turns and approximately 70m of elevation gain, this certified course is perfect for personal bests and competitive racing.

5K - A Fast, Fun Race for All

Run, Walk, or Race

The McLaren Vale 5K is an accessible, scenic out-and-back race perfect for runners of all abilities. Whether you're looking to push the pace or simply enjoy the vineyard scenery, this short and exciting race offers a fantastic experience for participants of all levels.

Event Details

  • Date: Sunday 1 June 2025

  • Distance: 5 km

  • Start Time: TBC

  • Cut-Off Time: 1 hour

  • Start-Finish Line: Main Road, McLaren Vale

  • Age Limit: 12 years (unless accompanied by an adult)

  • Online Registrations Close: Midnight on Thursday 29 May 2025

Entry Fees & Inclusions

  • Launch Pricing: $30 (until midnight on 10 November 2024)

  • Early Bird: $40

Your Entry Includes:
✔ Race Entry
✔ Finisher Medal
✔ Fully Stocked Aid Stations
✔ Race Day Medical Support
✔ Electronic Timing
✔ Access to the Post-Event Recovery Zone

Course Overview

The 5K course follows a straightforward out-and-back route, starting in McLaren Vale town centre, heading south along Main Road for 2.5 km, before turning around and sprinting back to the finish. With less than 50m of elevation gain, this is a fast, fun, and inclusive event for all participants.

Why Run McLaren Vale Marathon?

🏅 World-Class Certified Courses - All races are AIMS / World Athletics Certified, ensuring accurate distances and a professional experience.
🍇 Stunning Scenery - Enjoy running through one of Australia’s most famous wine regions, with rolling vineyards and picturesque landscapes.
💪 For Every Runner - Whether you're chasing a personal best, a first-time finisher’s medal, or just a great day out, McLaren Vale Marathon has a race for you!

Secure your spot now and experience the best of running at the McLaren Vale Marathon!