Fränkische Schweiz-Marathon

The Fränkische Schweiz Marathon takes place annually in early September in Franconian Switzerland, a very hilly region in the northern part of Germany's state of Bavaria, popular for its rock formations, caves, castles and breweries.

Starting in the small town of Ebermannstadt, competitors run out and back on the B 470 road which follows the Wiesent river and passes several pretty villages such as Streitberg (pictured).

The route is undulating. The course is closed off to traffic during the race.

Marathon runners and relay teams of two, three, four or five members are welcome to take part in the classic 42.2k run.

In addition, the event offers:

42.2k handbike marathon
21.1k half marathon
21.1k run & bike
10k run
4.2k run or walk (on Saturday)
400m and 1,000m kids' races (on Saturday)