Lofoten Stage Run 2025: A Wild Dance with Nature

Posted on June 2, 2025 by talkultra

There are races, and then there’s the Lofoten Stage Run by The Arctic Triple team. What unfolded in May 2025 wasn’t just a footrace; it was a deep, soul-grinding, awe-inspiring journey through one of the world’s most arresting landscapes. Four stages. Two distances, 170 km and 100 km.

Across wild coasts, knife-edge ridges, fishing villages, and snow-streaked mountains, runners pushed their limits, and often redefined them, surrounded by the raw power and beauty of Norway’s Lofoten archipelago. Sleep came in hytte and seaside rorbuer; rest was fleeting, but memories were burned in.

Stage 1: Into the Wild – Kjerkfjorden to Nusfjord (39 km / 20 km)

The race began like a dream: a boat ride through cold, steel-blue fjords, cliffs rising on all sides like the jaws of some ancient creature. As runners disembarked at Kjerkfjorden, the silence was broken only by soft footsteps and shallow breaths, nerves on edge, anticipation sharp.

The terrain wasted no time. A steep climb out of the fjord led straight into deep snow patches and slick rock. Then came the surreal beauty of Kvalvika Beach, where sand met snow and the ocean roared its approval. For the 170 km runners, the day stretched long into the day, ending with a technical coastal section into the storybook village of Nusfjord. Legs screamed, but hearts were full.

Stage 2: Edge of the Earth – Nusfjord to Leknes (34 km / 17 km)

Day two was tougher. Tighter trails, more scrambling. The wind picked up, mist rolling in from the Norwegian Sea like smoke, rain fell, at times, hard and relentless. Between breaths, runners caught glimpses of jagged peaks piercing the sky and turquoise bays far below. This was Lofoten in full cinematic glory, wild, moody, and impossibly vast.

A tunnel under the sea added a surreal twist, legs burning as they climbed out of the darkness and back into the light. Offersøykammen offered panoramic views, but it demanded everything. As runners arrived in Leknes, drenched, scraped, and shivering, you could see it in their faces: wonder, pain, pride.

Stage 3: The Long Haul – Leknes to Rolvsfjorden (52 km / 35 km)

This was the crucible. The longest stage. Bodies were already breaking down, but the terrain opened up, longer runnable sections, smoother single track. The landscape changed too. From rugged coastline to sweeping highlands and serene lakes, this was Lofoten in its gentler form.

As the finish line at Brustranda Fjordcamping came into view, many had run out of words. “This is insane,” one runner muttered, grinning. “But it’s beautiful.”

Stage 4: The Final Push – Rolvsfjorden to Svolvær (45 km / 21 km)

The last day was emotional. Legs were dead weight. Ankles rolled. Minds fogged. But everyone knew what waited: the end, the reward, the moment of elation.

Jordtinden loomed: steep, snowy, relentless. At its summit, clouds lifted like curtains, revealing a 360-degree panorama that stopped runners in their tracks, the ridgeline ahead bringing a sense of awe and fear in equal measure.

This is the queen stage, the terrain bringing together all that makes Norway and Lofoten unique, marvellous and special.

You could see all the way back, mountains, inlets, the journey behind. Some cried. Some screamed. Some just stood there, stunned.

The descent into Svolvær was pure adrenaline, fuelled by joy and relief. The last stretch along the harbour felt like flying. Locals clapped. Teammates waited. People hugged. Some collapsed. Others danced.

More Than KM’s

But the Lofoten Stage Run wasn’t just about distance or finish times. It was about the strange intimacy of shared suffering, of strangers becoming friends over bowls of traditional Norwegian food and stories told in cabins. It was the moment you stepped outside at midnight, sun still hanging low over the sea, and realised how small we are.

It was the rawness of the terrain mirrored in every aching limb. It was the magic of Lofoten, weather that shifted like a mood, peaks that stabbed the sky, and a landscape that didn’t just surround you, it swallowed you whole.

In the end, it wasn’t a race, it never was, the Lofoten Stage Run is an experience, a 360 immersive journey that shocked the mind and the senses and revealed to each and every participant that this route, arguably, is one of the BEST in the world. It was a rite of passage. A storm-chased, mud-caked, heart-thumping reminder that the wild is still out there, and if you’re lucky, it might just let you in.

VIEW THE FULL IMAGE GALLERIES HERE

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Lofoten Stage Run 2025 – Experience the most magical place in Norway

Posted on December 5, 2024 by talkultra

The inaugural 2024 Lofoten Stage Run paved the way for what is Norway’s premiere multi-stage running event. Taking place over 6-days (4-days running,) the LSR event was inspired by the 170km solo event taking place under the umbrella of events titled The Arctic Triple – ski mountaineering, trail running and triathlon.

2025 will see the 2nd edition take place and once again two distance options will be available, 170km ‘Expedition‘ and the 100km ‘Adventure‘ run.

Expedition 170km – enter here

Journey the length of Lofoten in 4-stages

The full 170km single-stage race broken down into 4-stages.

Adventure 100km – enter here

A shorter, more manageable highlight journey.

While 100km may seen extremely manageable over 4-days, one must take into account the challenging terrain the race takes place over and the vertical climb and descent. This is not an easy option.

There is no better way to fully immerse oneself and experience that magic that Lofoten offers by moving under ones own power, running or walking. Lofoten is considered one of the most desireable places to visit in the world.

The Lofoten Stage Run has the added bonus of taking participants to hidden places, often only experienced by the most adventurous tourist.

After a tough day on the trails, each stage concludes with a typical Norwegian Hytte experience with excellent local cuisine, a shower and of course a comfy bed. Participants luggage is transported each day, so, while running, you can travel lighter and faster.

The Lofoten Stage Run is designed to be a running holiday, however, do not be fooled, those cozy and comfortable evenings are worked for. The terrain and weather in Lofoten is challenging; a mixture of all terrains and elements that can bring for many, the ultimate challenge.

THE EXPERIENCE

Taking place during week 22, participants need to be in Svolvær on May 27th for a transfer to Reine and a stay at Reine Rorbuer. Located in the western part of Lofoten, at the entrance to the Reinefjord, lies the stunning fishing village, considered one of the most beautiful in Norway.

Wednesday, stage 1, starts with a boat trip from Reine to Kjerkfjorden. The route ahead, 39km’s for 170km race and 20km for the 100km. The opening 10km’s a real challenge with tough climbs, technical terrain, snow sections and soft/ boggy ground. Kvalvik beach offers some opportunity for flat terrain before a steep climb and eventually a descent to Fredvang and checkpoint. Here the 20km distance stops. A road section leads to Nesland for the 170km runner’s and the final technical trail sections before arriving in the picture postcard, Nusfjord and the Nusfjord Arctic Resort– a tough day!

Stage 2 at 34km’s (17km for the 100km starting at Napp) concludes at Lofoten Rorbuutleie another amazing location surrounded by sea and mountains. The early route to Napp bringing many a challenge, technical trails and mild hands-on scrambling sections before sweeping single-track with stunning views. Road gives way to coastal trail and another road section before arriving at Lilleeidetholmen marina, the buildings are located with water on both sides and direct access to quays and floating docks.

Stage 3 for 170km Expedition runner’s is the long day, covering 52km’s with arguably the most ‘runnable’ terrain of the whole week. For the 100km it is also a long day at 35km starting at Rolvsfjorden.. Technical aspects are reduced and much of the route is single-track interspersed with some road. The finish at Brustranda Fjordcamping once again offering a wonderful Norwegian hytte experience of cabin surrounded by water and mountains.

Stage 4, the final day at 45km’s brings some of the most technical terrain of the whole Lofoten Stage Run experience, especially the climb to Jordtinden and the ridge that follows with some exposure form an ‘airy’ single-track, snow fields and at times, challenging terrain. The final peak of Tjeldbergtinden a final challenge before the run in to Svovær and the conclusion of four magical days. For the 100km runner’s they cover the last 21km starting at Kleppstad, and yes, they get to experience Jordtinden, the ridge and the final summit of Tjeldbergtinden – it is the highlight section of the whole Lofoten Stage Run.

After the race, a meal at the event hotel, Thon Hotel Lofoten, where the focus is some of the best local food from the area. A perfect evening to share new and old stories with your new friends and relive the magic of Lofoten and the Lofoten Stage Run.

THE RUN

170km or 100km, one thing is for sure, running in Lofoten is tough and challenging. Terrain constantly switches from demanding and technical sections to easy flowing single-track. Experience, excellent endurance and an ability to handle technical and challenging terrain is required for those who sign up for the 170km.

The same requirements apply for the 100km distance, however, the shorter distance does allow for a considerably slower pace and more walking. Rest assured, the 100km is not an ‘easy’ option, it is a real Norwegian mountain experience, especially the 21km on the last day.

The Lofoten Stage Run is all about enjoyment and experiencing the best of Norway, not only its magical terrain but its hytte and food.

It is no coincidence that this is called a run and not a race, the ultimate relaxed trail running experience that brings so much more than just running. Traveling point-to-point, on foot, experiencing the magnificence of Norway. Stunning trails, majestic mountains, resplendent views, and all during the endless daytime of the midnight sun. It gets no better!

Experience Lofoten.

Experience the Arctic Circle.

Experience the midnight sun.

Experience the majesty and beauty of Norway under your own power.

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Lofoten Stage Run 2024 – The Arctic Triple

Posted on June 2, 2024 by talkultra

The inaugural 2024 Lofoten Stage Run has just concluded, two experiences, the 170km Expedition Run and the 130km Adventure Run brought to you by The Arctic Triple team. Six days and four stages inspired by the Lofoten Ultra-Trail 100 Miles solo race, the Lofoten Stage Run brings the same route broken down into manageable chunks.

There is no better way to fully immerse oneself and experience that magic that Lofoten offers. The routes journey to hidden places, often only experienced by the most adventurous tourist. Each day concluding with the Norwegian Hytte experience and local cuisine.

Designed to be a running holiday, however, do not be fooled, those cozy and comfortable evenings are worked for. The terrain here in Lofoten is challenging; a mixture of all terrains and elements that can bring for many, the ultimate challenge.

Mountains, snow, single-track and amazaing views with Johan Cajdert.

THE EXPERIENCE

Arriving in Svolvær on Tuesday May 28^th, participants were transported to Reine, considered by many to be the most beautiful village in Norway. It is certainly iconic.

Staying in an authentic fisherman cabin in Reine Rorbuer, the 2024 experience kicked-off with a race briefing and then dinner.

Wednesday, stage 1, started with a boat trip from Reine to Kjerkfjorden.

The route ahead, 39km’s. The opening 10km’s a real challenge with tough climbs, technical terrain, snow sections and soft/ boggy ground.

Kvalvik beach offers some opportunity for flat terrain before a steep climb and eventually a descent to Fredvang and checkpoint.

A road section leads to Nesland and the final technical trail sections before arriving in the picture postcard, Nusfjord – a tough day!

Stage 2 at 34km’s concludes at Lofoten Rorbuutleie another amazing location surrounded by sea and mountains.

The early route to Napp bringing many a challenge, technical trails and mild hands-on scrambling sections before sweeping single-track with stunning views.

Road sections provide some easy running and link the key trails

Road gives way to coastal trail and another road section before arriving at Lilleeidetholmen Marina, the buildings are located with water on both sides and direct access to quays and floating docks.

Stage 3 for 170km Expedition runner’s is the long day, covering 52km’s with arguably the most ‘runnable’ terrain of the whole week.

Technical aspects are reduced and much of the route is single-track interspersed with some road.

The finish at Brustranda Fjordcamping once again offering a wonderful Norwegian hytte experience of cabin surrounded by water and mountains.

Stage 4, the final day bringing some of the most technical terrain of the whole Lofoten Stage Run experience, especially the climb to Jordtinden and the ridge that follows with some exposure form ‘airy’ single-track, snow fields and at times, challenging terrain.

The final peak of Tjeldbergtinden a final challenge before the run in to Svovær and the conclusion of four magical days. After the race, a meal at the event hotel, Thon Hotel Lofoten, where the focus is some of the best local food from the area. A perfect evening to recap from the race and share new and old stories with your new friends.

THE RUN

170km or 130km, one thing is for sure, running in Lofoten is tough and challenging. Terrain constantly switches from demanding and technical sections to easy flowing single-track. For sure, day 1 was a surprise to many and a warning of the challenge that would be ahead to complete the 4-day experience.

Despite schedules for the 170/130km runs, this journey was all about enjoyment and experience, therefore, participant requests for shorter days, or even rest days were accommodated. The Lofoten Stage Run is as explained, a running holiday and therefore it should provide the right experience for the individual.

Reiner completed the 170km mixing walking and running

What was key was the unified enjoyment through the whole group of participants, key to this was the evening hytte experience and the sharing of a meal together.

Of course, racing did take place, and Lina and Sanna Elkott Helander were the stand out champions of the 170km distance along with Johan Cajdert.

Graeme Murdoch and Tzvetie Erohina lead the way for the 130km.

Results though don’t tell the story, the Lofoten Stage Run was a relaxed trail running experience that brought so much more than just running.

The weather played ball and provided not only pleasurable temperatures but also allowed Lofoten to be visible, this really is a truly magical landscape. Traveling point-to-point, on foot, experiencing the majesty of Norway. Stunning trails, majestic mountains, resplendent views, and all during the endless daytime of the midnight sun. It gets no better!

VIEW THE FULL IMAGE GALLERY HERE

Experience Lofoten.

Experience the Arctic Circle.

Experience the midnight sun.

Experience the majesty and beauty of Norway under your own power.

Want to join the experience in 2025?

Go HERE

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LOFOTEN STAGE RUN – NEW FOR 2024

Posted on September 25, 2023 by talkultra

New for 2024, Norway’s first multi-day trail running event, the LOFOTEN STAGE RUN brought to you by the team behind The Arctic Triple taking place Week 22 2024 (w/c 27th May)

Download the info PDF HERE

Image sheets HERE

Located in the stunning and world-renowned Archipelago of Lofoten, The Arctic Triple team will offer two stunning races, the 175km Expedition Run and the 120km Adventure Run, both starting in the iconic, beautiful, and picturesque Reine and concluding in Svolvær.

Travel point-to-point, on foot, experiencing the majesty of Norway. Stunning trails, majestic mountains, resplendent views, and all during the endless daytime of the midnight sun. A fully supported journey over 4-days (6-days in total) and remembered for a lifetime.

The Lofoten Stage Run will bring the best of what Norway has to offer – fjords, fishing villages, beaches, mountains, ridges and of course the world-renowned Hytte experience.

“Lofoten Stage Run came about after the 2021 Arctic Triple and the realisation that only the 100-mile runners were getting a full 360 Lofoten experience. Not everyone wants or can run 100-miles in one go, especially here in Lofoten. So, we have created the Lofoten Stage Run which effectively breaks down our 100-mile race in 4-stages and therefore offers a more manageable way to experience all that Lofoten has to offer.” – Kristian Nashoug

The Lofoten Stage Run, either the 175km or 120km versions offer a full day to cover the respective stages and the opportunity to really experience all that this area has to offer. In the evening, runners will meet local hosts, experience local food, have comfortable lodging, and create new bonds and friendships with like-minded people. Lofoten is one of the most ‘desired’ places to visit in the world, what better way to experience it?

This is no ordinary multi-day race!

Stages will consist of 4-days, 39km, 60k, 31km and 45km for the 175km Expedition Run and 39km, 29km, 31km and 21km for the 120km Adventure Run, it’s The Arctic Triple’s aim to make this experience available to all.

Day 1 will conclude in one of the best-preserved fishing villages in Lofoten, Nusfjord.

Day 2 at Unstad Arctic Surf.

Day 3 at Brustranda Fjordcamping in Rolvsfjord, a real gem on the inside of the Lofoten archipelago.

And finally, all races conclude in Svolavær.

Experience Lofoten.

Experience the Arctic Circle.

Experience the midnight sun.

Experience the majesty and beauty of Norway under your own power.

PRICE NOK 32.900 (ca €2950)

What is included?
Accomodation 5 nights (one night before and after is also included)
Race registration
Luggage transport from basecamp to basecamp
All meals from when we meet in Svolvær day 1 until breakfast day 6
Start kit
The Arctic Triple buff
Service stations
First Aid
Evacuation transport
Timing
Tracking
Warm meal after finish
Boat ride to the starting line in Kjerkfjorden
Quality Finisher shirt

Use the contact form below

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THIS IS THE LOFOTEN STAGE RUN.

For more information and full detailed itinerary, schedule, and costs.

Please go HERE

Week 22 2024.

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The Arctic Triple Ultra-Trail 2023 Summary

Posted on June 5, 2023 by talkultra

Located 800 miles from Oslo and 95 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Lofoten is an archipelago in Nordland county, known as the land of the midnight sun, from the end of May to the middle of July sunset merges into sunrise, with no darkness in between. Majestic mountains, lush valleys, chalk-white beaches, seagull cries, the smell of sea and houses where you would not believe that anyone could live. It’s Lofoten in a nutshell.

IMAGE GALLERIES HERE

Highlights are countless, especially for an enthusiastic tourist, however, as a runner, you are in an amazing position to explore. Off the beaten track you get to see the ‘real’ Lofoten that only the hardy get to see. Higravtind, 1146m is the highest peak, what Lofoten lacks in height, it more than compensates for with a plethora of mixed terrain and endless peaks connected via sea, beach, road, and trail.

The Arctic Triple is a series of races (skimo, ultra-trail and triathlon) that take place at 3 key points of the year, March week 11, June week 22, and August week 33. Created to showcase this stunning archipelago; the Ultra-Trail (and shorter races) takes place in June bringing endless days and nights of light.

Providing a perfect opportunity to sightsee while running, it comes as no surprise that the 160km, 80km, 48km, 24km and 12km races are extremely popular, 750 toed the line in 2023. In addition, there is a 160km relay competition and a 80km relay competition.

Passing through amazing scenery of mountain ridges, white beaches, green hills, and grey cliffs, the race routes are stunning and for almost the entire time, the ocean is in view. All the races conclude in Svolvær.

Reine, the classic picture postcard view of Lofoten, is a small fishing village located on the island of Moskenesøya, surrounded by towering mountains, this is where The Arctic Triple experience starts for 160km runners leaving by boat for Kirkefjord, the official start line.

Highlights come thick and fast, the peak of Kråkhammar towering the opening km’s to cp1 at Selford. The beach of Kvalvika is by far the loneliest beach in Lofoten on the way to cp2 at Fredvang. In previous editions, Unstad, Uttakleiv and Haukland beach have been part of the race route, but for 2023, changes were made to accommodate local farmers and livestock. A coastal section from Nesland to Nusjford providing rolling and at time technical trail.

Nusford, like Reine, is a picture postcard fishing village on the southern shore of the island of Flakstadøya. What follows is arguably one of the more challenging sections of the whole race route and the cp at Napp (56km) is a key aid station. The coastal trail loop of Offersøy leads eventually to Leknes, 73km covered and it is here that the 80km race starts.

Now, as the 160km route counts down to the finish in Svolvær, the respective 48km, 24km, and 12km races start. The route from Brustranda climbing up from the coastline into Grønbakkan being a highlight.

Torvdalshalsen and the 48km start leads to Vetten and some challenging terrain before climbing a steep wall of grass and a race highlight of Dalstuva ridge. Road miles follow and now, with approximately 20km’s to go, the route enters the whammy of Jordtinden, Nonstinden, Spisstinden and finally Tjeldbergtinden before finally arriving in Svolvær, exhausted!

Lofoten, on foot, is relentlessly beautiful and challenging and for 2023, even more so, with persistent rain, strong winds at time varying amounts of snow; the final section over Nonstind, Spisstind and Tjeldbergtinden providing an even greater challenge with recent snowfall, varying levels of visibility and cold temperatures.

“You run on some absolutely fantastic trail, and you are constantly surrounded by sea and lush mountains. It is a raw experience, steep mountain sides, narrow edges and 100% concentration is required. There are airy parts that offer a challenge and incredible views. Single-track, road, marshland, dense forest, mud and views to make my eyes sore – what a place Lofoten is!” – Abelone Lyng

Ultimately, Lofoten is a magical paradise that is waiting to be explored. There is so much to do and see that one trip will not be enough and it will only whet the appetite for future visits and plans.

However, if you need an introduction to this magical part of the world, signing up for one of The Arctic Triple races would be a great introduction. Of course, the 160km race provides the ultimate point-to-point immersive experience from Reine to Svolvær, for many though, this is too far and too challenging, but watch this space, new for 2024 (in addition to the 160km single-stage) the 160km race will be broken down in to four stages and offer Norway’s first multi-stage race (more info HERE), it will provide a full and immersive experience.

160km, 80km, 48km, 24km, 12km or the new stage race, running The Arctic Triple lets you experience the nature, views and atmosphere of Lofoten – there is no better way to experience any place!