The Laugavegur Ultra Marathon 2027

The Laugavegur Ultra Marathon is a legendary 55-kilometre route, regarded as one of the most beautiful and most demanding trail runs in the world. It starts in the Landmannalaugar mountains filled with geothermal steam and rainbow rhyolite, and finishes in the green Valley of Thor (Þórsmörk) 🏃. Along the way, a runner’s survival school awaits you: fields of black obsidian, treacherous patches of snow, gusty Icelandic wind, and glacial rivers that must be crossed by wading knee-deep in icy water. It’s a race that turns the definition of exhaustion into pure awe.

Once you reach the finish line in Þórsmörk and head back, tired but happy, by bus to civilisation, Iceland has the perfect recovery plan for you:

For a walk: In Reykjavik, your steps will naturally take you to the main shopping street, which... surprise... is also called Laugavegur! It’s the lively heart of the capital, full of cosy cafés, niche shops selling Icelandic wool (lopapeysa), and colourful murals 🛍️.

For the family: Go together to the Sky Lagoon on the outskirts of the city or the iconic Blue Lagoon. Sinking into warm, mineral-rich geothermal water after running 55 km over tough terrain isn’t a luxury – it’s an absolute necessity for your muscles 🧖‍♀️.

For a trip: If your legs are still able to do anything at all, drive to the south coast. Within easy reach are the powerful Seljalandsfoss waterfall (you can walk behind its curtain of water!) and the incredible black sand beach of Reynisfjara near the town of Vík 🌊.

After an ultra like that, you’ll need to seriously replenish your calories. Traditional, hearty lamb soup (Kjötsúpa) served in bread is perfect. And if you want to celebrate with local runners like true Vikings, try Hákarl – fermented shark with a very... distinctive smell, traditionally washed down with a sip of Icelandic caraway schnapps Brennivín, known as “Black Death” 🥃.