LateRooms.com - Cheer on the runners at Italica International Cross-country

LateRooms.com can announce that cross country racing can be something of a demanding sport, as participants battle the elements and all manner of terrain, from grass and mud to the occasional puddle.

If participating in such an event does not appeal to people staying at hotels in Seville then they may want to watch an annual spectacle in the region instead.

Every year, the Italica International Cross Country comes to Spain and in 2010 it will take place on January 18th.

More than 2,000 athletes will gather at Calle Le Feria, Santiponce to participate in what will be the 38th edition of the race.

There are few other events like this, as racers will make their way around the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Santiponce, which is within easy distance of Seville.

Spectators can cheer on the competitors as they make their way along the course, which is nearly 11 kilometres long and weaves its way through the ancient archaeological site.

There are also several categories taking in slightly different routes so that people can don their sportswear and take part in the run, whatever their age.

If tourists have not hired a car to drive themselves to Santiponce, then there are numerous local buses making the journey every day, which takes about an hour.

"The Italica International Cross Country is likely to be popular," said Jess Reading, head of marketing at LateRooms. "LateRooms strongly recommends people considering attending to book hoteles en Sevilla as soon as possible."