A Race Like No Other
The Laugavegur Ultra Marathon is not just any race; it's a journey through the heart of Iceland's wilderness. Held annually in July, this race covers the iconic Laugavegur Trail, a route that traverses the highlands from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk. This trail, famous among hikers, offers a unique combination of volcanic landscapes, steaming hot springs, snow-capped mountains, and vast deserts of black sand.
Unlike many ultramarathons that wind through urban landscapes or rolling hills, the Laugavegur Ultra Marathon takes runners into a world that feels almost otherworldly. The race starts in Landmannalaugar, a geothermal wonderland known for its colorful rhyolite mountains and bubbling hot springs. As the runners make their way south, they cross fields of lava, skirt around glaciers, and navigate through rivers, all while surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery imaginable.
The Challenge
The Laugavegur Ultra Marathon is not for the faint-hearted. The weather in Iceland is notoriously unpredictable, even in the summer. Runners can experience sunshine, rain, snow, and wind all in a single day. The terrain itself is challenging, with steep climbs and descents, rocky paths, and river crossings that test even the most experienced ultrarunners.
However, what truly sets this race apart is the remoteness. Unlike many other ultramarathons, there are no cheering crowds lining the course. For much of the race, runners are alone with their thoughts, surrounded only by the vast, untamed beauty of the Icelandic wilderness. This solitude can be both a blessing and a curse. For some, it offers a chance to connect deeply with nature, while for others, it can be a mental challenge to push through the isolation and fatigue.
The Experience
For those who take on the Laugavegur Ultra Marathon, the experience is unforgettable. The sense of accomplishment that comes from completing such a demanding course is immense. The race organizers do an excellent job of supporting runners, with well-stocked aid stations along the route and a warm welcome at the finish line in Þórsmörk.
But beyond the physical challenge, the race offers a chance to experience Iceland in a way that few others do. Running through the country’s remote highlands, far from the usual tourist spots, gives participants a deep appreciation for the rugged beauty and stark isolation that define Iceland's interior.
Preparation and Training
Preparing for the Laugavegur Ultra Marathon requires more than just physical training. Runners must be ready for the unpredictable Icelandic weather, carrying appropriate gear for all conditions. This includes waterproof jackets, thermal layers, and gloves, even in the height of summer. Additionally, training on varied terrain is crucial. The race's mix of volcanic rock, loose gravel, and river crossings demands a high level of technical running skill.
Nutrition and hydration strategies are also key. Given the remote nature of the race, runners need to be self-sufficient between aid stations, carrying enough food and water to sustain them through long stretches. Many participants also practice their river-crossing techniques, as these can be particularly challenging in the cold, fast-flowing waters of Iceland's highland rivers.
The Community
One of the most rewarding aspects of the Laugavegur Ultra Marathon is the sense of community among the runners. While the race is undoubtedly competitive, there is a strong spirit of camaraderie. Participants from all over the world come together, sharing not only a love for running but also a deep respect for the natural environment. Post-race, many runners choose to spend time exploring more of Iceland, often forming lasting friendships along the way.
Conclusion
The Laugavegur Ultra Marathon is more than just a race; it's a journey into the heart of one of the most beautiful and challenging environments on Earth. For those who are up for the challenge, it offers an experience like no other—a chance to test their limits in a land of fire and ice, to run through landscapes that are as awe-inspiring as they are unforgiving, and to be part of a community that values both the sport and the environment in which it takes place.
Whether you’re an experienced ultrarunner or someone looking for a new challenge, the Laugavegur Ultra Marathon should be on your bucket list. It’s not just a race; it’s an adventure that will stay with you long after you cross the finish line.
https://runagain.com/no/run/LaugavegurUltraMarathon
