NEW YORK, Oct 7 — With the New York Marathon scheduled for November 1 already sold out, here’s a quick look at five marathons taking place in the next five months around the world that combine physical endurance with a festive atmosphere and unique sites to see.

Queenstown International Marathon, New Zealand, November 21

Situated between lakes and mountains, in a unique setting consisting of a protected site offering beautiful views, this renowned marathon event includes 70 per cent hard packed trails and 30 per cent road surface. The marathon ends with a festival celebration featuring bands, DJs and other perks like massage sessions. www.queenstown-marathon.co.nz/index.php

The Marathon International du Beaujolais, Fleurie, France, November 21

One of France’s most popular marathons kicks off at Fleurie in Beaujolais wine country and ends at Villefranche-sur-Saône via a French Athletics Federation-approved itinerary that takes runners through vineyards and around castles. The itinerary covers overs 12 villages and 9 festive and sportive refueling stations, allowing participants to test their limits while enjoying attractions and friendly interaction in a unique setting. www.marathondubeaujolais.org/en

New Year’s Marathon in Zurich, Switzerland, December 31 and January 1

Why not celebrate the end-of-year holidays by running? The marathon, which will be celebrating its 12^th edition this year,  welcomes all runners to assemble at the start line at exactly midnight and cross the finish line on the first of January. A mini-marathon is also organized for younger runners. The run is followed by music and festivities worthy of a New Year’s celebration throughout the night. www.neujahrsmarathon.ch/en

The Kilimanjaro Premium Lager Marathon, Tanzania, February 28

Departing from the town of Moshi, this marathon has worldwide adventure appeal and follows an itinerary that brings runners through villages, farms, forests and coffee and banana plantations, all under the breathtaking presence of Mount Kilimanjaro. The run is a physical and geographical journey that confronts participants with beautiful landscapes as well as some of the world’s top-performing athletes and record-breakers. www.kilimanjaromarathon.com

The Tokyo Marathon, Japan, February 28

This run is one of the World Marathon Majors, one of the six major challenges in the running world along with New York, Berlin, Boston, Chicago and London. It is also one of the most popular runs in Asia. Highlighting the main tourist attractions of the Japanese capital, this marathon presents a slice of Japan both present and future. It’s a cultural journey not to be missed and an intense physical challenge to take on. www.marathon.tokyo. — AFP-Relaxnews