[Author’s Note: This article is the ninth in an 11-part series in AJW’s Taproom celebrating under-the-radar races.]
For the last 28 years, the Laugavegur Ultramarathon has been held in mid-July in the southern highlands of Iceland. Covering 55 kilometers and connecting the nature reserves of Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork, Laugavegur is a point-to-point course held in one of the most remote and scenic regions of Iceland. Limited to 300 participants, Laugavegur has a little bit of everything — sand, gravel, mud, snow, ice, and frigid river crossings. The race is also somewhat unique for the sport in that all participants, in order to be eligible to run, must have an ITRA performance index of at least 370.
Sebastian Storgaard is a key member of the race organization and has been involved with the race for years. He cites the unique location in the southern highlands of Iceland as something that makes the race so special.
Runners on the course of the 2024 Laugavegur Ultramarathon. All photos: Ólafur Þórisson
“Laugavegur is special due to how geographically isolated the event is. It is essentially in the highlands of Iceland, far away from any towns or services. We have to ship most of the things needed for the race — food, medical products, tents, and staff over difficult terrain — both to the starting line in Landmannalaugar as well as the finish in Þórsmörk. It is no easy task and could not be done without the combined efforts of the hard-working and dedicated people that do their utmost to put on an outstanding running event.”
The Laugavegur trail was voted by National Geographic as one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world, and draws visitors from around the world.
Facing many of the same obstacles as other point-to-point trail ultras, Laugavegur’s challenges are amplified by its remote location, challenging weather conditions, and unique demands on both participants and volunteers.
Storgaard notes that the race maintains its low-key feel due largely to where it is located.
The beautiful and remote setting of the Laugavegur Ultramarathon.
“Iceland has a relatively small population, and the running community mirrors that. Many Icelanders know each other from participating in the races that are available in Iceland, as well as many being together in running groups. This creates a very close-knit community that supports one another. Social media also plays a big part in allowing runners to connect with each other and provide advice and guidance about the trail and the race. Finally, we all think that it’s important to have a close-knit community as we consider this — first and foremost — a community event, and we want people to be involved in the process.”
The 2025 edition of the race, the 29th annual, will take place in mid-July, with registration opening in November. While the organizers take pride in their off-the-radar status, they also derive great joy in welcoming runners from around the globe to their special corner of the world. For those looking for an adventure way off the beaten track, Laugavegur may be for you!
Bottoms up!
AJW’s Beer of the Week
Iceland is a beer lover’s paradise and at the top of most people’s best of Iceland list is Lava Beer, a Russian Imperial Stout produced by Ölvisholt Brugghús, a brewery in Selfoss, Iceland. Weighing in at 9.4% ABV, Lava is a pitch-black beer flavored with dark chocolate, roasted malt, and smoke, with a dark brown head, perfect on a cold windswept evening in Iceland’s Southern Highlands.
Call for Comments
- Have you done the Laugavegur Ultramarathon? If so, tell us about your experience.
