Gen Z drive countryside running getaways trend as three quarters plan rural ‘run-cations’
This autumn, Airbnb and Strava are coming together to inspire travellers with everything needed for an unforgettable ‘rural run-cation’ – the latest travel trend taking off among young Brits: staycations built around scenic runs, fresh air, and connection with friends. To make escapes even sweeter, the partnership also includes complimentary post-run treats to travellers and runners from local bakeries.
As autumn ushers in stunning scenery, post-summer resets, and renewed fitness routines – including the start of race training for many – new research from Airbnb and Strava1 shows that nearly three-quarters (74%) of young runners have either planned, or are considering, a countryside run-cation.
Swapping city routes and fleeting catch-ups for open trails and real connection, the trend is driven in part by Gen Z’s unwavering running fever. The study of 18-29 year olds found that two-thirds (68%) now consider themselves regular runners, and Strava reports that a third of all athletes on their platform are Gen Z, which has increased by 30% in the past 18 months.
At the same time, a growing case of ‘city loop fatigue’ is pushing runners towards the countryside. While just under half (47%) of young runners typically run in cities and towns, the majority (56%) admit feeling bored or uninspired by such urban routes – citing frustrations such as a lack of scenic views, crowded surroundings, and air pollution.
Hungry for travel experiences that don’t compromise on adventure, as well as the ability to maintain exercise routines, it’s no surprise that three in five are keen to explore a countryside running holiday in the next three years – whether they are seasoned runners or not. For many, the appeal of a ‘run-cation’ isn’t always about chasing personal bests – it can also be about switching off and soaking up nature, whilst being active and connecting with others as recent Strava insights found that in the UK, nearly a quarter of all runs are with other people.
Yet, despite Airbnb data revealing Gen Z searches for autumn getaways rose in 20252, nearly two-thirds (64%) of young runners admit they don’t know where to start when it comes to finding the best local routes in new places.
Inspiring travellers with everything they needed for an unforgettable ‘run-cation’, Airbnb and Strava have teamed up to reveal a range of beautiful stays within trending Gen Z rural destinations, alongside the most popular places to complete an activity on Strava. And no matter where you are, it is easier than ever to explore new places to run. Found in the Maps tab on the Strava app, there are plenty of real routes to discover generated by the Strava community from a current location or any custom starting point.
With 72% of Gen Z runners saying they like to plan a post-run reward, Airbnb and Strava have partnered with five local bakeries to offer free sweet treats for runners, making an escape to the country even sweeter. How it works 👇🏻
Complete any run-related activity on the Strava app OR be staying in an Airbnb in one of the five below trending destinations
Show proof of either of the above on your phone (via the Strava or Airbnb app) to bakery staff
Receive your free sweet treat
Sweet treat rewards offered between 16th October until 16th December 2025
Full terms and conditions apply (see below)
