TASMANIA’S famous Ross Marathons has been hailed the fourth best regional marathon in Australia.

Australian Marathon Reviews website described the scenic course as ‘‘challenging’’ and ‘‘picturesque’’, with the Great Ocean Road Marathon taking out top spot on the list.

Ross Marathons race director Casey Mainsbridge said the September event’s reputation and atmosphere had earned it positive reviews.

‘‘I was pleasantly surprised when I found out, via social media of course,’’ he said. ‘‘I think because the event is so community-based it gets a great response from its participants.’’

Marathon participants John Claridge and Amy Lamprecht said the course presented a number of unique elements that attracted interstate and international competitors. ‘‘It’s quiet, but it’s very pretty,’’ Ms Lamprecht said. ‘‘It’s a great atmosphere, because you get the encouragement of the other competitors during the course’s crossover, but you also get the quiet and peaceful part of it as well when you’re running on your own.’’