The VVO Oberelbe Marathon is one of Germany’s most scenic point-to-point running events, widely known as the “Landscape Marathon” for its breathtaking route along the Elbe River. Held annually in Saxony, the race takes runners from the dramatic sandstone formations of Saxon Switzerland through historic riverside towns and into the cultural heart of Dresden. It is a race defined less by urban intensity and more by natural beauty, making it one of the most visually distinctive road marathons in Europe.
Organized by Oberelbe-Marathon e.V. with operational support from xperience sport & events, the event is held across Königstein, Pirna, and Dresden in Germany. The marathon itself begins in Königstein, while the half marathon starts in Pirna, with all distances ultimately finishing in Dresden. This unique multi-start format allows runners of different distances to experience different sections of the Elbe valley while converging toward the same celebratory finish.
The course follows the Elbe Cycle Path, offering long stretches of flat, fast terrain combined with uninterrupted views of castles, cliffs, and riverside landscapes. Runners pass through picturesque towns like Rathen and Pirna before entering Dresden’s Elbe Valley, a setting that blends nature with historic architecture. The result is a course that feels both tranquil and dynamic, ideal for personal bests but equally rewarding for those simply soaking in the scenery.
Beyond the race itself, the VVO Oberelbe Marathon is known for its well-organized logistics, strong local support, and a welcoming atmosphere that attracts both international participants and regional runners. With multiple distances including marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, and youth races, the event caters to a wide spectrum of runners while maintaining a cohesive race-day experience.