Scharfenstein Run

The Scharfensteinlauf is billed by the organiser as Thuringia's oldest popular run, first held in 1925. The 2026 edition will take place on Saturday 23 May 2026 with start and finish on the grounds of Burg Scharfenstein. The event offers a range of distances from a 400 m Bambinilauf for the youngest children up to an 18 km two-lap main race, and also includes a 9 km route used by both runners and Nordic walkers. Youth races (2.3 km, 1 km and a 400 m Bambini/Bambinilauf) are held in the immediate vicinity of the castle. The course runs over forest, meadow and gravel roads, with some hilly/technical sections on the longer routes.

Organised by SV Concordia Beuren, the Scharfensteinlauf combines a traditional village-race atmosphere with festival grounds facilities (in use since 2023) and ample parking close to the castle. Pre-entries are accepted until 21 May 2026; late, on-site registration is possible on the day until 09:30 for a late fee of €5. The event forms part of the 29th Eichsfeld-Cup 2026 series and typically attracts around 500 participants. Participants should consult the organiser's event page for final start lists, precise start waves and any last-minute logistical information.