Berenloop Marathon 2025

The Berenloop on Terschelling is one of the most popular running events in the Netherlands. Every year on the first weekend of November, thousands of runners and supporters come to the island to participate in this unique race through villages, forests, dunes, and across the beach. In addition to the beautiful course, the cozy island atmosphere makes for an unforgettable experience.

What can you expect at the Berenloop on Terschelling?

• Varied Course: The entire marathon follows the harbour, the Boschplaat, through the dunes and across the beach. The half marathon runs through West-Terschelling, Midsland, and Formerum, returning through the forest and across the beach back to West.
• Different Distances: Choose from the full marathon (1,000 participants), the half marathon (3,300 participants), or the Youth Run. On Saturday morning, there is the Kleintje Berenloop with distances of 5 and 10 kilometers.
• Atmospheric Finish at the Brandaris: All runners finish at the iconic lighthouse, where the public provides a warm welcome.
• Unique Island Experience: The whole weekend breathes Terschelling's sportiness and coziness, with activities and cheers along the route.

A Sporting Challenge with a Special History

The first Berenloop took place in 1997 to mark the theme year ‘400 years of Willem Barentsz’. The name refers to the harsh journey of the Terschelling seafarer, who had to winter on Nova Zembla in 1596 and survived by hunting bears. Today, the Berenloop is known as one of the most beautiful and toughest marathons in the Netherlands.

Practical Information

• Sign up in time: The half marathon often fills up within hours. Registration is available via the official Berenloop website.

Don't miss this sporty and atmospheric event and experience the Berenloop on Terschelling!