Experience marathon running with a Michelin-starred edge this autumn in the Faroe Islands
If you love fitness and fine dining, you’re in for a treat. This autumn, the Faroe Islands is gearing up for a sporting festival like no other, welcoming adventure-seekers from all over the world to participate in its first-ever mountain-based trail marathon (26.2 miles) and ultra-marathon (40.4 miles): Útilív Adventure Festival (7-9 September. 2018).
No ordinary race, in a unique Nordic twist to the event, runners will be greeted on the way by owners of the iconic Michelin-starred restaurant KOKS. A world’s first, the establishment will function as a checkpoint for runners just 2 km into their challenge, serving them food and refreshments.
Around 250 participants from across the world are expected to descend upon the islands to take on the rugged, rocky terrain, unforgiving waves and hidden surf breaks in a weekend of trail running, water sports and hikes, along with inspiring talks and film screenings.
High-profile runners will be participating in the trail marathon too, including GB international Tom Owens, Nepalese trail runner and National Geographic Adventurer of the Year 2017, Mira Rai, plus Danish national trail runners Kristina Schou Madsen and Simon Grimstrup.
KOKS, the first-ever Faroese restaurant to receive a star from the Nordic Michelin Guide in 2017, retained the accolade in 2018. It is known for its unique Faroese identity, its commitment to the use of sustainable local products and its traditional take on ways of preserving fish, meat and vegetables.
Chef Poul Andrias Ziska says: “At KOKS we are all about doing things in a very Faroese way, from the local produce we use to the traditional methods of cooking, the simple design of the restaurant and the welcoming service. Being part of the festival is exciting for us and we’re thrilled to be able to share Faroese food with even more people from around the world.”
Make it happen
When: The festival runs from 7-9 September 2018.
How: Daily flights to the Faroe Islands (from Copenhagen to Vágar) operate year-round and cost from £165 pp return with Atlantic Airways
Wallet: Ticket prices from £75 pp. To book a ticket, visit www.utilivfestival.com.
