The Isles Ultramarathon

The Isles Ultramarathon

The Isles is an eight day, seven night foot traverse of the Outer Hebrides covering 185 miles (300 km) along the full Hebridean Way. The schedule runs in September with editions listed for 2026, 2027 and 2028. The programme begins with a group transfer from the mainland to the islands and finishes at the Butt of Lewis Lighthouse on the northern tip of the Outer Hebrides.

The route crosses multiple islands and causeways, passing Vatersay, Barra, Eriskay, South Uist, Benbecula, Grimsay, North Uist, Berneray, Harris and Lewis. Terrain includes coastal roads and beaches, machair grassland, peat tracks, moorland and rocky off road sections, with notable sections such as Traigh Mhòr beach runway, the climb to Rhuabhal on Benbecula, Luskentyre beaches and the Golden Road on Harris. Ferry transfers between islands and vehicle transport for logistics are included.

Accommodation is a mix of hotels, B and Bs and hostel or bunkhouse dormitories. Meals vary by location; breakfasts can include grab and go options, dinners are provided at accommodation or nearby restaurants, and on-route Pit Stops supply fuel. Event support comprises Rat Race crew, British medics and oversight from a specialist medical provider; event management follows the BS8848 expedition standard. Entry rules require participants to be 18 or older. Comprehensive travel and evacuation insurance is compulsory.

Mandatory kit requirements include trail running footwear, a 10–20 litre daypack or running vest, minimum 1.5 litres water capacity, waterproofs, headtorch of at least 150 lumens with spare batteries, personal bivvy or emergency shelter, first aid and a GPS device or smartphone. The organiser reserves the right to adapt routes or logistics for safety or weather reasons. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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