The world’s most luxurious ultrarun is to launch in the UK next year.
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.
Launching in April 2022, the exclusive event, which costs £15,499 to enter, will see 40 athletes from around the world tackling 120 miles of Scotland’s spectacular west coast wilderness.
But after a gruelling day of running, which includes a 10,000ft ascent from Glencoe to the Isle of Arran across four days, 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.”
Ahead of the event, world champion ultrarunner Jon Albon will be among the experts providing bespoke coaching to entrants from October this year to ensure they are in prime physical and mental condition.
“Whether a fun runner or a more serious athlete, this is a great opportunity for people to really challenge themselves and see what they are made of,” Jon said.
“The level of detail that’s gone into the experience from the build-up and during the event itself, is simply incredible.”
The participants’ progress during the seven-month training regime will also be monitored and supported by leading health experts and nutritionists.
Smith added: “We have found there are many people who enjoy the challenge of an ultrarun, but prefer to end their day with a bit of luxury and relaxation thrown in.
“The athletes will not only have great accommodation, but also onsite masseurs, physios and hydro pools to recover; food prepared by Michelin Star chefs and a butler service to top off the next level experience delivered by the event.
“No other event we have found goes to this level of detail to deliver such a premium experience around an ultra-run. It’s going to be truly special.”
For more information visit www.highland-kings.com