Dubbed ‘the world’s most luxurious ultrarun’, athletes with money (and calories) to burn can now pay over £15,000 to take part in a a 4-day ultrarun – tackling 120 miles of Scotland’s spectacular west coast wilderness next April
A stark contrast to typical ultrarun experiences of soggy tents, aching muscles and packet food, The Highland Kings Ultra – dubbed one of the most expensive – will feature butler service, Michelin star chefs, lavish accommodation, speedboat transfers and seven months of personal mentoring by some of the biggest names in the sport.
Set to launch in April 2022, the exclusive event, which costs an eye-watering £15,499 to enter, will see 40 athletes from around the world tackling 120 miles of Scotland’s west coast with coaching ahead of the event from world champion ultrarunner Jon Albon.
The upside to the four gruelling days of running, which includes a 10,000ft ascent from Glencoe to the Isle of Arran, involves some seriously lavish off time. Entrants will be treated to the finest in extravagant aftercare, including onsite masseurs, an athletes’ lounge and award-winning cuisine.
Named after Scottish kings Kenneth McAlpin, Alexander III, Robert the Bruce who helped to shape the region, the event will culminate with a gala dinner hosted by legendary explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes.
Organiser Primal Adventures, which has been running luxury wilderness experiences since 2014, said the ultra-marathon will be like no other.
“We wanted to create something really special,” said ex-Special Forces operative and Highland Kings Ultra founder Matt Smith.
“The Highland Kings Ultra will combine the physical and mental challenges of an ultra-marathon with the ultimate in luxury and extravagance. Set against the stunning backdrop of Scotland’s rugged west coastline, the event will be the first of its kind anywhere in the world.
“This is the first event to bring enthusiasts together with the world’s best athletes, giving them access to world-class advice, coaching and mentoring to prepare them for a true physical challenge.
“Participants will be pushed to their absolute limit during the day, but they will get the chance to relax and enjoy a range of the finest festivities and activities each night. They will run like warriors and recover like kings.”
The participants’ progress during the seven-month training regime will also be monitored and supported by leading health experts and nutritionists.
Sir Ranulph Fiennes, the record-breaking British adventurer and explorer, is also an ambassador for the event. Participants will have the chance to meet Fiennes and hear stories from his career at an event on the final night of the race. According to the website, Fiennes hails the event as a ‘pioneering Ultra,’ that will ‘deliver a unique luxury, endurance and immersive wilderness experience.’
