Archipelago trail run https://archipelagotrailrun.com Slogan Mon, 20 Jul 2026 10:07:59 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.2 https://archipelagotrailrun.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/cropped-FAV_2-32x32.png Archipelago trail run https://archipelagotrailrun.com 32 32 The story of the islands: How Archipelago Trail Run came to be https://archipelagotrailrun.com/the-story-of-the-islands-how-archipelago-trail-run-came-to-be/ https://archipelagotrailrun.com/the-story-of-the-islands-how-archipelago-trail-run-came-to-be/#respond Wed, 15 Jul 2026 13:15:47 +0000 https://archipelagotrailrun.com/the-story-of-the-islands-how-archipelago-trail-run-came-to-be/

Before Archipelago Trail Run first took place in 2024, there was already a long story of friendship, shared work, and love for the islands of the Zadar archipelago behind it. We spoke with the Ivan Košta, director of the Ugljan Island Tourist Board, who has held the position for the past eight years and three months, about how the idea of connecting the islands was born, what makes them so special, and why visitors keep coming back.

An idea two decades in the making

The idea of connecting the islands of the Zadar archipelago became reality once the Law on Tourist Boards made it possible for several boards to join forces on projects aimed at jointly developing tourism potential.

“When we talk about the idea behind this connection, I have to mention my dear colleague from university, Ivana Čarić, who has for years been the director of the Sali Tourist Board, and my colleague Ina Kolega, director of the Kali Tourist Board,” explains Ivan Košta. It was these two who, twenty years ago, were already developing the idea of connecting the archipelago’s islands and saw great potential in it.

“Throughout history, our islands have always been connected — culturally, in transport, economically, and in every other sense. Today, tourists and visitors can experience them as a whole: an island archipelago that tells one and the same interesting story, while still showing off the distinct character of each island,” he adds.

Unlike some other Adriatic islands, which have historically been self-sufficient “continents” of their own, the Zadar islands are not large enough for that, so they have always needed shared life and exchange with one another. Similar island archipelagos around the world often act in unison, and some are world-famous for it — and that, our host says, is exactly where the Zadar islands’ richness lies: similar to one another, yet each different.

From the Soča Outdoor Festival to a friendship that sparked an event

The story behind Archipelago Trail Run goes back even further. Years before the event was created, the Ugljan Island Tourist Board used to promote the island’s active tourism at similar events in Slovenia, especially at the Soča Outdoor Festival. That’s where they met Jan Klavora, Boštjan Mikuž, Sara Mavrič, Matevž Hribar and other colleagues.

“They’re wonderful people who put on excellent events of this kind. Year after year, I loved going to Slovenia and watching how effortlessly and warmly they worked. I often thought to myself — something like this could never work down south, in Dalmatia, where the heat and easy-going ‘fjaka’ spirit take over,” Ivan Košta recalls with a smile. It was through those trips that friendship and trust were built — without which Archipelago Trail Run simply wouldn’t exist.

After nine tourist boards from the archipelago joined forces, they worked together on a shared outdoor project covering the islands — cycling and hiking trails, maps, signage — and produced films about cycling, trail running and kayaking, while presenting the islands at specialized trade fairs across Europe. The effort paid off in 2023, when they received the prestigious national tourism award in the “Active Tourism” category at Croatian Tourism Days in Rovinj.

“I drove a van from Zadar to Rovinj and back with eight female colleagues — you can imagine the noise,” he laughs. On the way back, everyone was thrilled about the award, and that’s when the first ideas began to take shape for a multi-day outdoor event that would connect several islands through island hopping, great energy, and genuine island hospitality. “The brainstorming took over the whole van,” he says. He told his colleagues then that he knew just the right person who could help make such a project happen — and in the following days he reached out to Jan Klavora. The rest is history.

What Zadar Archipelago means?

“To me, Zadar Archipelago is a unique space surrounded by the sea, where natural beauty, rich heritage and the authentic way of life of island people come together in perfect harmony. To truly experience it, you have to come to the island and surrender to its rhythm,” says Ivan Košta.

He believes the islands are the ideal setting for trail running, offering everything that makes the sport special — challenging trails, striking landscapes, beautiful views and a spectacular sense of peace and freedom. “On the island, you quickly leave everyday life behind and immerse yourself in nature, which feels completely different from classic races held elsewhere.”

Island hopping, he says, feels like visiting several different worlds in just a few days. “Every island has its own rhythm, atmosphere and story, even though they all belong to the same whole. Sailing from island to island is part of the adventure and an unforgettable sense of discovery.”

Three islands, three stories

Ugljan, Pašman and Dugi otok have historically always been the largest of the Zadar islands, in every sense. “Ugljan is defined by its olive groves, mild climate, picturesque villages and its strong connection to Zadar. Pašman is known for its untouched nature, its wonderful people, its peace and quiet, and a special relationship with the sea and nature. Dugi otok, meanwhile, impresses with its size, wild landscapes and the contrast between steep cliffs and calm coves — it’s something of a shield protecting the archipelago from the open sea,” explains Ivan Košta. Each of these islands, he says, offers a different way of experiencing the archipelago.

Unlike regular tourists, Archipelago Trail Run participants get to see the islands’ hidden corners, far from the usual tourist routes. They get to feel the peace of the island’s interior, see old dry-stone walls, olive groves, and places you simply can’t reach by car.

In three words, he sums up the experience as: authenticity, beauty, adventure.

Why people keep coming back?

“People keep coming back to the islands because they offer something that’s today the most valuable thing of all — space, peace and a sense of freedom. They come back for the emotions, the memories, the nature, and the people who make the island space even more precious. The moment you set foot on the island, you’re in another dimension,” he says.

Asked what “guštanje” — the Dalmatian art of savoring life — means to him, he answers: “Guštanje, to me, is the art of enjoying simple things that make me happy. Morning coffee by the sea or on a boat, an unhurried conversation with friends and loved ones. That inner feeling of being exactly where you’re supposed to be, right now. The island is the medium that gives us islanders everything we need for guštanje — we’re masters of it. Come visit us, and we’ll teach you how it’s done.”

His recommendations

  • Viewpoints: Ugljan — Sv. Mihovil and Šćah; Dugi otok — Grpašćak; Pašman — Ždrelac Bridge
  • Favorite sunset spot: Svitla Bay on the island of Ugljan
  • “Crnilo kup” — traditional squid fishing as a gastronomic experience with a special island energy
  • Hidden corner: Kobiljak Bay on Dugi otok (“and there’s one more place I’m keeping jealously to myself”)
  • The village of Sali and its “Saljske užance” traditions
]]> https://archipelagotrailrun.com/the-story-of-the-islands-how-archipelago-trail-run-came-to-be/feed/ 0 What’s new on the islands in 2026? https://archipelagotrailrun.com/whats-new-on-the-islands-in-2026/ https://archipelagotrailrun.com/whats-new-on-the-islands-in-2026/#respond Mon, 13 Jul 2026 07:19:53 +0000 https://archipelagotrailrun.com/?p=14603

Every edition of Archipelago Trail Run brings a new island base, new experiences and new ways to discover the Zadar Archipelago. For 2026, we’ve expanded the event beyond the race itself, making your active late summer holiday island weekend even more memorable.

Here’s what’s waiting for you this October.

New island base: Pašman

For the first time, the island of Pašman and the town of Pašman will become the heart of the event throughout the weekend. The race village, finish area and event atmosphere will all be centred here, creating one vibrant meeting point where runners, hikers, families and supporters can spend the weekend together.

One of the highlights for spectators will be a new cheering point in Tkon, located at the aid station right in the harbour. With cafés, the waterfront and the race passing through the town, it will be the perfect place to support participants and soak up the island atmosphere.

New hiking experiences

Everyone can experience the islands their own way. Alongside our trail races, we’re introducing new hiking experiences that let you discover the Zadar Archipelago at a slower pace.

2-day island hiking adventure

Our new 2-day hike combines two beautiful islands into one unforgettable journey. Over two days you’ll hike scenic trails across Ugljan and Pašman, carrying only a daypack while we transport your luggage between stages. Accommodation is not included, allowing you to choose the place that suits you best. We recommend staying in Ždrelac and the surrounding area.

It’s the perfect option for anyone who wants to experience the islands at a slower pace while still being part of the Archipelago Trail Run weekend.

Read more >>

10 km hike – Dugi Otok

Explore dramatic coastal scenery, hidden trails and breathtaking Adriatic viewpoints on one of Croatia’s most spectacular islands. This self-guided hike is perfect for anyone looking for an active yet relaxed island adventure.

Read more >>

10 km hike – Pašman

Discover peaceful olive groves, scenic viewpoints and authentic Dalmatian villages while enjoying the slower rhythm of island life. An ideal choice for friends, partners or family members accompanying runners.

Read more >>

Brooks Shakeout Run

Kick off your race weekend with a relaxed Brooks Shakeout Run on Friday evening. If you’re staying on Pašman, come stretch your legs, get moving before the weekend’s races and enjoy an easy social run while cheering on the runners taking part in the Vertical Race. 

It’s the perfect opportunity to meet fellow participants, soak up the race atmosphere and ease into an unforgettable island weekend. Whether you’re running or hiking, everyone is welcome.

Friday Run Experience

Why wait until race day to explore the islands? Our new Friday Run Experience is a guided social trail run across the beautiful island of Ugljan.

Starting in the charming town of Preko, we’ll follow scenic trails to the historic St. Michael Fortress, enjoy spectacular panoramic views across the Zadar Archipelago towards Kornati Islands and continue through centuries-old olive groves before returning to the coast.

We’ll be discovering the island together, taking photos, enjoying the views and sharing the experience with fellow runners before the competitive weekend begins. Expect around 12 km of relaxed trail running, plenty of stops along the way and a welcoming finish with refreshments.

Read more >>

Archipelago Trail Run has always been about more than crossing a finish line

It’s about writing one last chapter of summer together. Running breathtaking island trails, swimming in the warm Adriatic, sharing great local food, meeting the people who call these islands home and embracing the Dalmatian art of guštanje—taking time to enjoy life’s simple pleasures.

Visit the islands when the summer crowds have gone, but the sea is still warm, the pace is slower and the authentic island spirit truly comes to life. Discover the Zadar Archipelago the way few visitors ever do, alongside a community of like-minded adventurers.

We can’t wait to welcome you to the islands this October.

REGISTER HERE
]]> https://archipelagotrailrun.com/whats-new-on-the-islands-in-2026/feed/ 0 From Vipava, Kočevje, Tolmin and Kranjska Gora to Pašman: the mobility that powers our trail events https://archipelagotrailrun.com/od-vipave-kocevja-tolmina-in-kranjske-gore-do-pasmana-mobilnost-ki-omogoca-nase-trail-dogodke/ https://archipelagotrailrun.com/od-vipave-kocevja-tolmina-in-kranjske-gore-do-pasmana-mobilnost-ki-omogoca-nase-trail-dogodke/#respond Wed, 13 May 2026 11:19:28 +0000 https://archipelagotrailrun.com/od-vipave-kocevja-tolmina-in-kranjske-gore-do-pasmana-mobilnost-ki-omogoca-nase-trail-dogodke/

Ford as the mobility partner of Ultra Trail Vipava Valley (UTVV), Kočevsko Outdoor Festival (KOF), Soča Outdoor Festival (SOF), Julian Alps Trail Run by UTMB (JAT), and Archipelago Trail Run (ATR)

When race starts are happening across different locations, teams are moving across the terrain, and aid stations are being set up, one thing becomes clear: a trail event is not just a course — it is a coordinated system in motion.

Top-level trail events rely on the precise coordination of people, equipment, and movement in the field. Behind the scenes, logistics, organization, and mobility work together to connect every part of the event.

That is why this year we are placing special focus on our partnership with Ford as the official mobility partner of our events — because mobility has a direct impact on both event operations and the overall participant experience.

What does mobility mean in practice?

Trail events take place in diverse natural environments, where logistics demand precision, flexibility, and reliability. With start and finish areas spread across different locations, access to remote points, and multi-day event operations, teams, equipment, and volunteers are constantly on the move.

This is where mobility becomes visible in very practical ways on the ground. Vehicles are present at the start areas of individual race distances, supporting event operations and team movement. During the event, they also serve as mobile aid support or logistical backup at key points where access is more challenging.

They enable the fast transport of equipment, course markings, and crew members between locations where quick response and adaptability are essential.

Mobility takes on a slightly different role at each event.

Ultra Trail Vipava Valley (UTVV), Vipava 

Multi-day logistics rely on off-road vehicles, passenger vans, and cargo vans to ensure coordinated operations throughout the event period, from April 20 to 28.

Kočevsko Outdoor Festival (KOF), Kočevje | May 29–31, 2026

Supporting the full festival weekend requires a combination of different vehicle types and a constant on-the-ground presence.

Soča Outdoor Festival (SOF), Tolmin | June 26–28, 2026

Movement between Tolmin and the event’s spread-out race routes requires additional flexibility and fast response times.

Julian Alps Trail Run by UTMB (JAT), Kranjska Gora | September 18–20, 2026

With multiple race distances and dispersed event locations, this event depends on coordinated mobility for teams, equipment, and on-course support.

Archipelago Trail Run (ATR), Pašman | October 2–4, 2026

Organizing an event on an island means limited infrastructure and an even greater dependence on reliable mobility.

Behind every event, there is a constant coordination of movement taking place in real time — where everything needs to work seamlessly, and there is little room for error.

Ford: mobility designed for real-world situations

Fordova

Ford’s vehicle range is built around adaptability — combining different powertrains, functional solutions, and design features that respond to both everyday needs and more demanding on-the-ground scenarios.

From electric and hybrid models to conventional engines, the range offers flexibility depending on how and where the vehicle is used, while keeping efficiency, reliability, and practicality at the forefront.

In practice, this is reflected through a combination of:

  • advanced safety and driver-assistance systems
  • comfort for everyday use
  • spaciousness for both people and equipment
  • readiness for a wide range of situations — from urban driving to access in natural terrain

This kind of flexibility makes it possible to adapt to the real conditions that come with organizing trail events.



Ford vehicles at our trail events

Different Ford models support specific roles within the organization of our trail events:

Each vehicle has a clear role within the event ecosystem, where efficiency and reliability matter most.

How does this impact the participant experience?

Although most runners do not directly notice the logistics behind the scenes, they play a key role in shaping the overall event experience. This is reflected in:

  • clear organization
  • reliability
  • smooth event flow
  • safety on course
  • accessible support when needed

Each of these elements contributes to the feeling that the event is running as planned — smoothly, safely, and without unnecessary complications.

Mobility as part of the trail experience

This partnership does not remain only in the background of event organization — it also becomes part of the trail experience itself. At selected events, participants will have the opportunity to:

  • explore Ford vehicles up close
  • take part in activations and prize giveaways
  • experience mobility as an extension of the trail experience

Organizing top-level trail events depends on the coordination of many moving parts, and mobility plays a key role within that system. Together with Ford, we are building events where logistics are not an obstacle, but a form of support — and where that difference is reflected in a more reliable experience for every participant.

]]> https://archipelagotrailrun.com/od-vipave-kocevja-tolmina-in-kranjske-gore-do-pasmana-mobilnost-ki-omogoca-nase-trail-dogodke/feed/ 0 First Ski Touring Festival in Slovenia https://archipelagotrailrun.com/first-ski-touring-festival-in-slovenia/ https://archipelagotrailrun.com/first-ski-touring-festival-in-slovenia/#respond Mon, 19 Jan 2026 13:21:21 +0000 https://archipelagotrailrun.com/first-ski-touring-festival-in-slovenia/

From coastal trails to a winter mountain story

All lovers of the coastal trails of Archipelago Trail Run are this time invited to higher altitudes — into the snow and silence of the Julian Alps.
As co-organisers, we invite you to the Bohinj Ski Touring Festival 2026, a winter, boutique “younger brother” of the summer trail stories, where the focus is less on results and more on knowledge, experience, and responsible movement in the mountains.

5–8 March 2026 | Bohinj, Julian Alps

What is on the program?

  • guided ski touring tours (for beginners and experienced participants)
  • 4-day Triglav Ski Touring Traverse
  • workshops and lectures on mountain safety (ski touring, avalanche safety, winter mountaineering)
  • competitive challenges: ski touring race, winter trail run, duathlon, vertical
  • evening gatherings and a strong outdoor community

     

Who is the festival for?

  • ski tourers (beginners and experienced),
  • trail and mountain runners who see winter as part of their preparation for the upcoming season,
  • mountaineering and outdoor enthusiasts,
  • all winter lovers who value knowledge, safety, nature, and community.

     

Organiser: Zavod Turizem Bohinj

Zavod Turizem Bohinj is responsible for the strategic concept of the festival, programme development, and positioning the event within the Bohinj area and Triglav National Park in line with the principles of sustainable tourism.

Co-organiser and main technical partner: JATrail d.o.o.

JATrail d.o.o. is responsible for the operational and technical execution of the festival and coordination of on-site activities. The festival is co-created by teams with extensive experience from major outdoor events in the region, such as Julian Alps Trail Run by UTMB, Ultra Trail Vipava Valley, Soča Outdoor Festival, Kočevsko Outdoor, and Archipelago Trail Run.

More information at https://tsf.bohinj.si/en/ 

See you on the mountain trails!

 
ABOUT THE EVENT
]]> https://archipelagotrailrun.com/first-ski-touring-festival-in-slovenia/feed/ 0 Archipelago Trail Run 2026 https://archipelagotrailrun.com/archipelago-trail-run-2026/ https://archipelagotrailrun.com/archipelago-trail-run-2026/#respond Wed, 26 Nov 2025 12:41:31 +0000 https://archipelagotrailrun.com/?p=11269

Pre-registrations are open

The 3rd edition of Archipelago Trail Run will take place from October 2 to 4, 2026. Many of you expressed the wish for the date to be moved to an earlier period, before the autumn school holidays. We listened to your wishes.

Early October is the perfect time for running and a seaside getaway. The sea is still warm, the spots for exploring are empty and peaceful, and the trails are ideal for a trail experience.

Why is it worth pre-registering?

Pre-registration ensures that you will be the first to know when registrations officially open. Because Archipelago Trail Run, with its multi-stage and island format, is gaining more interest and recognition from runners across Europe each year, this gives you the opportunity to be among the first to sign up and secure your spot for 2026.

Pre-registration is non-binding and purely informational. When registrations open, you still need to complete the registration process, but you are a step ahead of others.

New edition, new island

In 2026, the main event venue is moving to a new island. We remain within the magnificent Zadar Archipelago, which includes more than 300 islands, islets, and reefs.

Our goal is to change the venue each year so we can explore different islands together—both as visitors and as runners.

See you on the islands?

PRE-REGISTER NOW

See how we enjoyed in 2025

]]> https://archipelagotrailrun.com/archipelago-trail-run-2026/feed/ 0 Brooks Cascadia 19 – The confidence to explore every trail https://archipelagotrailrun.com/brooks-cascadia-19-the-confidence-to-explore-every-trail/ https://archipelagotrailrun.com/brooks-cascadia-19-the-confidence-to-explore-every-trail/#respond Wed, 23 Jul 2025 09:35:49 +0000 https://archipelagotrailrun.com/brooks-cascadia-19-the-confidence-to-explore-every-trail/

Brooks Cascadia 19 – official race shoes

Designed for adaptability, stability, and comfort, it offers reliable support—whether you’re running over rocks, mud, forest paths, or gravel roads.

Adaptive Stability
The revamped Trail Adapt system includes a flexible and articulated Ballistic Rock Shield, integrated into the nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 foam midsole. The shoe naturally responds to uneven terrain, ensuring smooth and stable strides in all conditions.

Grip on Every Surface
The TrailTack Green outsole, made from 25% recycled materials, delivers top-tier traction on both wet and dry surfaces. Multi-directional lugs provide confident grip during climbs, descents, and quick direction changes.

Long-Lasting Comfort and Protection
Increased cushioning in the heel (+2 mm) and forefoot (+4 mm) adds extra softness without compromising responsiveness. The upper is made of breathable mesh, reinforced with 3D-printed overlays that protect your feet from rocks and other trail challenges.

Sustainable Design Without Compromising Performance
Brooks aims for CarbonNeutral® certification by increasing the use of recycled materials and supporting carbon offset projects to neutralize emissions they can’t yet eliminate. Cascadia 19 is thus also an environmentally responsible choice.

For Runners Who Demand Versatility
Cascadia 19 is a dependable companion for all terrains—ideal for experienced trail runners and weekend explorers alike. With a grippy outsole, adaptive stability, and plush underfoot feel, it lets you enjoy every kilometer—in any condition.

The Perfect Choice for the Archipelago Trail Run
 The trails that stretch across three islands of the Zadar Archipelago, run over three days during the Archipelago Trail Run, require just that: adaptability, reliable grip, and comfort—even after hours of running. From rocky climbs on Dugi Otok to rugged forest paths on Ugljan and smooth gravel roads on Pašman, the Cascadia 19 proves itself at every step. If you’re looking for a shoe that follows your every move and maintains comfort across all types of terrain, Cascadia 19 is an excellent choice for this kind of adventure.

What’s new in the Cascadia 19

  • Improved Trail Adapt system

  • Upgraded DNA LOFT v3 cushioning

  • More comfort in the heel and forefoot

  • Lighter and more protective upper

Tester feedback:
 “This is the Swiss army knife of trail shoes. It handles so many different conditions with ease!”

]]> https://archipelagotrailrun.com/brooks-cascadia-19-the-confidence-to-explore-every-trail/feed/ 0 Introducing the Partnership with Brooks Running https://archipelagotrailrun.com/introducing-the-partnership-with-brooks-running/ Fri, 11 Jul 2025 11:09:38 +0000 https://archipelagotrailrun.com/?p=10423

Brooks Running is a leading American brand specializing in high-performance running shoes and apparel. Founded in 1914, the brand originally produced various types of athletic footwear, but in the early 2000s, it strategically focused exclusively on running. This decision placed it among the most respected names in the running industry and earned it the status of one of the most advanced running brands in the world.

Brooks is known for its innovative cushioning technologies, such as DNA LOFT v3, BioMoGo DNA, and GuideRails®. These technologies provide optimal comfort, responsiveness, and stability, supporting the natural movement of the foot. Brooks shoes are suitable for both neutral runners and those needing extra pronation support. The legendary Glycerin and Adrenaline GTS models have become synonymous with a premium running experience.

What truly sets Brooks apart from the competition is its scientific and biomechanical approach to injury prevention. They invest in research and development to create footwear that supports the body and reduces impact with every step. That’s why both serious and recreational runners trust Brooks for a combination of comfort, safety, and performance.

However, Brooks doesn’t build its identity on technology alone. Its philosophy, “Run Happy,” emphasizes the joy of movement—running as relaxation, connection, and personal progress. This message is now evolving through their new campaign, “Let’s Run There,” based on the idea that we are all powered by something—the energy of goals, connection, nature, movement.

We’re all powered by something. Let’s run there.

Whether you’re driven by the buzz of a running community, the breathtaking energy of mountain trails, or simply the good feeling after a daily run—Brooks has the gear to help you unlock that energy. Their shoes are designed to get you where your inner drive takes you—be it a personal victory, the tranquility of nature, or the pure joy of movement.

On top of it all, Brooks is committed to sustainability. They use recycled materials, develop technologies with a lower carbon footprint, and aim for CarbonNeutral® certification for an increasing number of their footwear models—without compromising on performance.

See Brooks Running collection
]]> Welcome to Croatia! https://archipelagotrailrun.com/welcome-to-croatia/ Sun, 17 Mar 2024 13:55:01 +0000 https://archipelagotrailrun.com/welcome-to-croatia/