Triathlon
Best Triathlons in the World: 15 Iconic Races for 2025
Discover the best triathlons in the world, from beginner-friendly events to pro challenges, with stunning courses and unforgettable races. Explore now!
Whether you're eyeing your first sprint-distance or hunting down the biggest triathlon in the world, this guide covers the most iconic, scenic and challenging triathlon events on the planet. From high-altitude climbs to night-time swims and festival vibes, we’ve rounded up the best triathlons to race in 2025 and beyond—no matter your fitness level or finish-line goal.
No other sport offers the breadth of beauty and experience that triathlon gives you. From brutally steep mountain passes to idyllic turquoise seas, and from bitterly cold glacial lakes to picture-postcard tropical landscapes, triathlons provide the chance to race through the very best the planet has to offer.
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How to Choose the Right Triathlon for You
Not all triathlons are created equal—so how do you pick the perfect race?
- Skill level: New to triathlon? Start with a Sprint or Super Sprint distance. Confident in your endurance? Look at Olympic, Half-Ironman or Ironman formats.
- Environment: Love mountains? Go for elevation-heavy races like Alpe d’Huez or Norseman. Prefer sunshine and sea? Noosa or Phuket offer tropical backdrops.
- Time of year: Plan your race around your training window and local seasons. Want to race in spring? Alcudia-Mallorca or Wildflower might be perfect.
- Travel goals: Turn it into a trip. Think wine country in Canada, a coastal getaway in Australia or an urban challenge through London or San Francisco.
- Vibe check: Some races are pure grit (hello, Savageman). Others lean into fun and festival feels (Noosa, Wildflower). Know your race-day style.
Once you've narrowed it down, check cut-off times, elevation profiles and weather conditions—and always register early for popular races like Roth or Norseman. They sell out fast!
01
Escape from Alcatraz: One of the Most Famous Triathlons in the World
Participants begin by diving from a ferry off the shores of Alcatraz Island
© Rocky Arroyo
Location: San Francisco, US
Date: May 31st - June 1st, 2025
Distance: Unusual format – 2.4km swim, 29km bike, 12.9km run
Level of difficulty: ★★★★☆ (3.5/5)
Who's it for: A legendary, urban triathlon in San Francisco—ideal for experienced athletes seeking a bucket-list race packed with atmosphere, iconic views, and a truly unique swim.he early days of the sport.
Why it’s one of the best triathlons in the world:
This triathlon in San Francisco kicks off with a leap off a ferry beside Alcatraz Island, followed by a cold, current-heavy swim across the Bay. The bike course winds through hilly Presidio Park, and the run finishes with a brutal 400-step sand ladder climb through the dunes.
02
IRONMAN 70.3 Hawaii: One of the Best Triathlons for Heat, Hills and Scenery
Ironman Hawaii 2014: underwater
© Hugh Gentry
Location: Kohala Coast, Hawaii
Date: May 31st 2025
Distance: Half-Ironman – 1.9km swim, 90km bike, 21.1km run
Level of difficulty: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Who's it for: Kona-level challenge without the Iron-distance commitment—complete with heat, hills, and unforgettable ocean views. or do the full distance.
Why it’s one of the best triathlons in the world:
This iconic triathlon in Hawaii delivers a true IRONMAN experience. It starts with a swim off Hapuna Beach, known for golden sand and sea turtles. The bike course follows the rugged northern segment of the Kona World Championship route, battling heat, humidity and trade winds. The run wraps things up along the scenic coastline.
03
DATEV Challenge Roth: Germany’s Fastest Iron-Distance Triathlon
With more than 250,000 spectators, the atmosphere at Roth is unforgettable
© Challenge Roth / Christoph Raithel
Location: Roth, Germany
Date: July 6th, 2025
Distance: Iron-distance – 3.8km swim, 180km bike, 42.2km run
Level of difficulty: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Who's it for: Suited for seasoned triathletes chasing a personal best or craving one of the biggest triathlon events in the world. Ideal if you want speed, crowd energy, and world-record pedigree.
Why it's one of the best triathalons:
Roth, a famous triathlon with 250,000+ spectators, boasts slick organisation and a fast course. Starting in the Main-Donau-Canal, it traverses Bavarian countryside with climbs and descents, ending with a flat, exposed run. It’s also where Iron-distance world records have been set: Jan Frodeno’s 7:35:39 and Chrissie Wellington’s 8:18:13.
04
Zalaris Norseman Xtreme: One of the World’s Toughest and Most Famous Triathlons
Location: Eidfjord, Norway
Date: August 2nd, 2025
Distance: Iron-distance – 3.8km swim, 180km bike, 42.2km run
Level of difficulty: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Who it's for: Built for elite endurance athletes with mountain legs and mental grit. This is not a beginner-friendly race, it’s for those seeking the toughest triathlon on Earth and an unforgettable, scenic finish.
Why it's one of the best triathalons:
Norseman is an epic triathlon beginning with a plunge into the icy Hardangerfjord from a car ferry. The cycling leg involves a formidable 3,000m ascent through unpredictable Norwegian landscapes. The marathon culminates at 1,850m on Mount Gaustatoppen, with a final 4.7km hike to the summit. Despite unpredictable weather, the views are consistently breathtaking.
05
Subaru IRONMAN Canada: Stunning Scenery Meets Classic Iron-Distance Racing
The run is held in and around the city of Penticton, where big crowds await
© IRONMAN
Location: Penticton, British Columbia
Date: August 3rd, 2025
Distance: Iron-distance – 3.8km swim, 180km bike, 42.2km run
Level of difficulty: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Who it's for: A great choice for athletes ready to tackle Iron-distance racing in one of the most scenic settings in North America. Best for those who appreciate a challenging course with lakes, mountains and wine country views.
Why it's one of the world's best triathlons:
After a stint in Whistler, this legendary triathlon event returned to its original Penticton roots—much to the delight of seasoned competitors. The swim in Okanagan Lake is calm but deep (up to 230m!), the single-loop bike route rolls through wine country and climbs over the 7km Richter Pass, while the run winds through downtown Penticton and past cheering crowds. It’s scenic, it’s satisfying, and it’s one of the most celebrated races on the IRONMAN circuit.
06
Noosa Triathlon: One of the Best Triathlon Events in Australia for Beginners
Braden running on the trails in Noosa
© Graeme Murray/Red Bull Content Pool
Location: Noosa, Queesland, Australia
Date: October 29th - November 2nd, 2025
Distance: Olympic – 1.5km swim, 40km bike, 10km run
Level of difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
Who it's for: An excellent race holiday option for beginners and social racers alike. Perfect if you're looking for a vibrant, Olympic-distance triathlon in Australia with a festival feel and coastal charm.
Why it's one of the world's best triathlons:
The Noosa Triathlon is the biggest triathlon in the world at the Olympic distance, with over 8,000 participants. This five-day festival on Queensland's Sunshine Coast offers elite competition and a welcoming atmosphere for beginners. It winds through rainforests, rivers, and coastal roads, all with beach vibes and post-race celebrations.
07
Challenge London: A Capital City Triathlon with Distance Options for Everyone
Opt for the Olympic route on the Sunday for a ride packed with landmarks
© London Tri
Location: London, UK
Date: August 9th - August 10th, 2025
Distance:
- Sprint – 400 m swim, 10 km bike, 2.5 km run
- Super Sprint – 750 m swim, 20 km bike, 5 km run
- Olympic – 1.5 km swim, 40 km bike, 10 km run
- Olympic Plus – 1.5–2 km swim, 50–60 km bike, 10–15 km run (varies by event)
Level of difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
Who it's for: Great for first-timers, urban explorers, and Weekend Warriors. Whether you’re looking for a flat beginner-friendly course or a personal challenge on London’s iconic roads, this race ticks the box. the variety of distances.
Why it's one of the world's best triathlons:
Challenge London is the UK’s largest closed-road triathlon and possibly the most scenic. With swim legs in the Royal Victoria Dock and bike routes past Tower Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral, this event transforms the heart of London into a triathlete’s playground.
If one race isn't enough, the Weekend Warrior format lets you complete as many as possible over two days. Yes, really.
08
IRONMAN 70.3 Alcudia-Mallorca: A Mediterranean Triathlon with a Legendary Climb
The bike route has 850m of elevation, and heads up to the Lluc monastery
© IRONMAN
Location: Alcudia, Mallorca, Spain
Date: May 10, 2025
Distance: Half-Ironman – 1.9km swim, 90km bike, 21.1km run
Level of Difficulty: ★★★★☆ (3.5/5)
Who it’s for: Ideal for intermediate to advanced athletes wanting a springtime triathlon in Europe that blends big climbs, Mediterranean beauty, and strong race-day atmosphere. A top pick for beach-goers and mountain-lovers alike.
Why it's one of the world's best triathlons:
This Mediterranean classic offers a competitive beach holiday. Athletes swim from Port d’Alcudia, bike with an 850m elevation gain including the Lluc monastery ascent in the Tramuntana Mountains, and run along Alcudia Bay. Its vibrant atmosphere and professional organisation make it one of the best triathlon events in Europe.
09
Alpe D’Huez: A Scenic and Famous Triathlon in the French Alps
The ride takes in one of the Tour de France's most famous stages
© Marti Milla - Youniti / Alpe d’Huez Triathlon
Location: Alpe D’Huez, France
Date: July 27th - July 31st, 2025
Distance: Various
- Long – 2.2km swim, 118km bike, 20km run
- Medium – 1.2km swim, 28km bike, 6.7km run
Level of difficulty: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Who it’s for: Perfect for climbers, Tour de France fans, and athletes craving a scenic, high-altitude challenge. Not for first-timers, but a dream course for those who love switchbacks and big mountain energy.challenge of Iron-distance
Why it's one of the best triathlons in the world:
Triathlon Alpe d’Huez is an extreme challenge. It begins with a swim in Lac du Verney, then a bike course including Tour de France routes and climbs like Col d’Ornon, Col de la Morte, and the 21-hairpin climb to Alpe d’Huez. The race concludes with a high-altitude trail run at 1,860m, promising both a physical feat and bragging rights.
10
Starman Night Triathlon: A Nocturnal Epic in the Scottish Highlands
The race ends with a climb to the top of Cairn Gorm – and back down again
© Ed Smith Photography
Location: Cairn Gorm, Scotland
Date: TBA
Distance: Half-Ironman + (1.9km swim, 90km bike, 22.5km run)
Level of difficulty: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Who it’s for: Tailored to seasoned triathletes looking for something wild, dark, off-grid and one of the famous triathlons in Scotland. Perfect for those who thrive on solo effort, unpredictable terrain and once-in-a-lifetime Highlands adventure. a seriously tough course.
Why it’s one of the most unique triathlon events in 2025:
The Starman, a Scottish triathlon, begins at midnight with a swim in Loch Morlich. Competitors then cycle through Speyside and conclude with a run up and down Cairn Gorm. This event is a personal test of endurance, navigation, and nerve, offering serene moments under the stars alongside adrenaline-fueled navigation of rocky terrain in the dark.
11
Wildflower Experience: California’s Festival of Swim-Bike-Run
Location: Lake San Antonio, California, US
Date: May 2nd - May 4th, 2025
Distances: Various
- Half-Ironman – 1.9km swim, 90km bike, 21.1km run
- Olympic – 1.5km swim, 40km bike, 10km run
- Sprint (off-road) – 400m swim, 16km bike, 3.2km run
- Sprint (on-road) – 500m swim, 20km bike, 5km run
Level of difficulty: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Who it’s for: From competitive athletes to fun-first triathletes who want a full-blown triathlon festival in California, this is for anyone wanting a challenging race paired with a California festival atmosphere. Great for those who love their triathlons social, scenic, and slightly unconventional.ce, once the work is done.
Why it's one of the best triathlons in the world:
Wildflower, known as the “Woodstock of triathlon,” blends challenging racing, including the “Nasty Grade” hill, with a social atmosphere. This central California event offers post-race music, wellness, wine, and art, prioritising community and lasting memories.
12
Savageman Triathlon Festival: Steep Climbs and Serious Bragging Rights
Only nine triathletes have had their name's engraved on Westerport Wall
© Kinetic Multisports
Location: Deep Creek State Park, Maryland, US
Date: September 16th, 2025
Distances: Various
- SavageMan 70 – 1.9km swim, 89.6km bike, 21.1km run
- SavageMan 30 – 1.5km swim, 36.9km bike, 10km run
- SavageMan 20 – 750m swim, 25km bike, 5km run
Level of difficulty: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Who it’s for: For hill-hungry athletes who want to earn serious bragging rights (and maybe a brick on the Wall). This is a go-to for experienced racers looking for one of the toughest bike legs in a standout triathlon in the US. plus a swim-run prologue.
Why it's one of the best thiathlons in the world:
The Savageman 70 triathlon is a brutal test of endurance, featuring the infamous 31% gradient Westernport Wall. Conquer it, and you earn an engraved brick on the Wall. With additional climbs like Killer Miller and Big Savage Mountain, it's one of the toughest triathlons worldwide, yet offers stunning scenery with a swim in Deep Creek Lake and a run along its forested shores.
13
Laguna Phuket Triathlon: A Tropical Race with Two Swims and Plenty of Charm
The swim takes place in two bodies of water – separated by a sprint on land
© Laguna Phuket Triathlon
Location: Laguna Phuket, Phuket, Thailand
Date: November 23rd, 2025
Distance: Unusual format – 1.8km swim, 50km bike, 12km run
Level of difficulty: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Who it’s for: Holiday-mode meets race-mode. Great for seasoned triathletes and sun-chasers ticking off a Southeast Asia bucket-list triathlon. This triathlon in Thailand offers a manageable distance but a heat-and-humidity challenge that will keep you honest.liday in a tropical haven.
Why it's one of the world's best triathlons:
A long-standing fixture on the Asian triathlon calendar, the Laguna Phuket Triathlon is an international athlete's hidden gem. The race features a unique two-body-of-water swim, a bike course through the Thai countryside, and a flat run around the resort's lagoons. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent organisation, it offers a festival-like experience with post-race amenities.
14
Superfeet Sandman Triathlon: A Wild Race on Wales’ Coastline
Fittingly, the Sandman Tri starts and ends on the sandy Llanddwyn Beach
© Sandman Event Images / Mel Parry
Location: Anglesey, Wales
Date: September 21st, 2025
Distance: Multiple formats
- Legend 72.4 – 1.9km swim, 93km bike, 19.7km run
- Savage – 2.25km swim, 81.6km bike, 15km run
- Standard – 1.5km swim, 58.6km bike, 9.8km run
- Sprint – 750m swim, 23km bike, 5.2km run
Level of difficulty: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Who it’s for: A nature lover’s triathlon in Wales, suited for first-timers and experienced athletes alike who want to race through forests, along beaches, and under the radar in one of the UK’s most scenic races. Unspoilt scenery. the UK’s most scenic races. Unspoilt scenery.
Why it's one of the best triathlon events in the UK:
The Superfeet Sandman Triathlon on Anglesey's Llanddwyn Beach concludes Wales' Adventure Championships, featuring Slateman and Snowman races. Its unique course includes cold open-water swimming, cycling through Welsh countryside, and running through pine forests and windswept dunes, with a Red Bull aid station.
15
The Outlaw: A Flat and Fast Iron-Distance Favourite in the UK
Location: Nottingham, UK
Date: July 26th - 27th, 2025
Distance: Iron-distance – 3.8km swim, 180km bike, 42.2km run
Level of difficulty: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Who it’s for: Excellent for UK-based triathletes chasing their first full-distance finish or a PB. Great value, fast course, and a community vibe make this a go-to Iron-distance race.ood value and PB potential
Why it's one of the best triathlon events in the UK:
The Outlaw has built a loyal following as one of the most well-run full-distance races in the UK, a course that’s both beginner-friendly and competitive enough to attract serious age-groupers.
The multi-lap riverside marathon route along the River Trent offers easy spectator access and aids runner focus. The bike leg is a single-loop course through the Nottinghamshire countryside, featuring flat sections and a moderate climb, favoring consistent pacing. The swim occurs in Regatta Lake at the National Water Sports Centre.
Final Word: Why These Are the Best Triathlons in the World
From the volcanic heat of Hawaii to the icy fjords of Norway, the best triathlons in the world prove one thing: no matter your skill level or style, there’s a race out there that will test your limits and reward you with unforgettable views, bragging rights.
Whether you’re looking for beginner-friendly triathlon events like Blenheim Palace or aiming for the toughest challenge on the calendar like Norseman, this list spans the full spectrum of difficulty, geography, and vibe.
What unites them all is the community, energy, and sheer grit that make triathlon one of the most rewarding sports on the planet. You’re not just swimming, biking, and running—you’re experiencing culture, pushing boundaries, and proving (mostly to yourself) what’s possible.
So whether your next goal is a sprint-distance triathlon in Australia, a scenic challenge like Alpe d’Huez, or one of the biggest triathlons in the world like Roth, one thing’s for sure: there’s never been a better time to dive in.
Call to Action: Got Your Eye on One of These Famous Triathlons?
Whether you're training for your first sprint or chasing Kona dreams, set yourself a challenge this season.
Need inspiration from the pros? Discover Hayden Wilde's triathlon journey and see how he makes competing look effortless. Ever wondered how professional athletes like Lucy Charles-Barclay began their careers? Learn more about her path to triathlon events.
Looking for more endurance challenges? Explore our guides to the best marathons in Australia or trail races and ultramarathons.
Ready to race? Let us know which triathlon is on your bucket list in the comments.
FAQ: Triathlon Know-How
The 80/20 rule suggests that 80% of your training should be at a low intensity, and 20% at a high intensity. It’s a proven method to build endurance, reduce injury risk, and improve performance for beginners and seasoned triathletes alike. For more on building endurance and hybrid strength for triathlon events, check out our Hybrid Training Guide.
What is the most beautiful triathlon in the world?
That’s subjective—but Challenge Roth (Germany), Laguna Phuket Triathlon (Thailand), and Alpe d’Huez Triathlon(France) regularly top the list thanks to their breathtaking scenery. Whether it’s tropical beaches or alpine switchbacks, these races make the pain worth it.
What’s the best triathlon to start with?
Beginner-friendly triathlon events like Blenheim Palace Triathlon (UK), Noosa Triathlon (Australia), or the London Super Sprint offer short, well-organized formats with flat terrain and great atmosphere—perfect for a first-timer.
What is the 90-second rule in triathlon?
This refers to transitions: aim to move from swim to bike and bike to run in under 90 seconds.While it’s not a hard rule, efficient transitions can shave crucial minutes off your time and keep momentum high on race day.
The landscaper who turned into a world-class triathlete. Training like a madman catapulted New Zealand's top triathlete to bronze in Tokyo. Watch 'Hayden Wilde: Determined for Greatness' for free on Red Bull TV.
