If you fancy getting off St. John’s beautiful beaches and taking up a real challenge, try 8 Tuff Miles. The most famous foot race on the Virgin Islands, it’s also one of the most enjoyable and rewarding you’ll find anywhere. But that’s not to say it’s a walk in the park. Far from it…

See another side to St. John with this tough but rewarding foot race.

Eight miles might not sound like very much, but let’s not forget this is ‘8 Tuff Miles’: this race is all about the challenge. Starting at sea level in the west coast town Cruz Bay, the initial five (tuff) miles involve a sweat-inducing climb up a hard-surface road to an elevation of 1,000 feet, followed by two miles navigating the rocky, uneven terrain that makes up the roof of the island (although the spectacular views do offer some consolation). Then, finally, there’s a sudden descent to the east coast town of Coral Bay. Oh, and it all takes place in February, with average temperatures in the mid-80s… so those 8 Tuff Miles might just feel like eighty!

There’s no doubt it is hard work, but it’s also a lot of fun too. With different races for men, women and children there are around 1,000 participants from all over the world taking part every year – making it a great way to meet people, see the island’s many sights and generally just have a great time. If you’re in it for the glory, you can rest assured that winners receive everything from $300 in cash to a sizable bar tab, while the four runners-up take away $100 restaurant vouchers, but for everyone else they’ll have the simple satisfaction of completing the Caribbean’s most cosmopolitan foot race… and ending up with a beer in a beachside bar.

Official website: 8tuffmiles.com