2/16/2026
The perfect start to Sofico Ghent Marathon 2026
In March, Ghent’s energy runs high for its yearly springtime sport event: the Sofico Ghent Marathon. To jog your memory on why we love the spring run, we’ve compiled a list below.
For this year's edition on March 29, JAM Ghent is offering an exclusive package to all runners in need of a restful night's sleep and the perfect boost for the big day.
Marathon Recovery Package 🏃♂️
Did you give it your all during the Sofico Marathon Ghent? Then it’s time to recover properly 💪
For only €12.50 per person:
✨ Late Check-Out until 6:00 PM
🥤 Recovery Drink & Bite available from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Relax, recharge, and end your marathon experience in total comfort 🧘♀️
Why run the Sofico Ghent Marathon?
Route: Medieval buildings and natural scenery, around 120m total altitude gain
Timing: One of the first spring marathons in Belgium every year
Supporter-friendly: Supporters can directly stand next to the course
Doing good: The Ghent Marathon organiser donates to Sportaround which enables kids in vulnerable to participate in sports activities.
The Route
This year’s Sofico Ghent Marathon starts at the far end of the Watersportbaan in the green outskirts of Ghent. From there it runs along the Drongensesteenweg and the Hoogstraat to the city center. You will be running past Ghent’s most important historic sites: the Saint Nicholas’ church, the iconic Belfort of Ghent, the city hall and the Saint Jacob’s church. The route then continues with a loop up to the Houtdok, next to the Ghent port, a piece of industrial history. Next along the banks of the Visserijvaart and the Schelde out to the Gentbrugse Meersen, one of Ghent’s beautiful protected marshlands. After a loop through the natural reserve, the route goes back along the Schelde in the other direction all the way south to the Ringvaart river, where you will take a lap through the Planet Group arena.The route then goes back north all the way to the city center via the Louisa d’Have bridge and then aside the Muinkschelde, before it takes a sharp left at Viernulvier. Once around the Bijlokesite, and back out to the Ghent Sports arena on the Watersportsbaan and after 42 km you will be one life-changing experience richer.
Time of year
As one of the first marathons of the year in Belgium, the Ghent marathon is the perfect kick-off to your marathon season and the perfect motivation to keep your new-years running resolutions going strong.
Gather your supporters!
What would be a marathon without strong emotional support? While you push yourself to your limits, your supporters can stand by the sidelines while enjoying the scenery. This year the organisers are even introducing a new app with a live tracking feature.
