FAQ's

WHAT KIND OF TRIPS DOES NOMADIC RUNNING COMPANY OFFER?

We offer bespoke trail running retreats and holidays for groups of 4-30 people. Exploring the world on foot allows the flexibility to move at a slower pace, and venturing on into the wilderness on single track and off-road paths always makes for some special memories. Each day is specifically designed to accommodate all running abilities. Every location is different from the next but you can expect the same bespoke high-quality trails, guides, and food on every trip we run. We pride ourselves on being accessible and grounded, focused on providing run, fun, and relaxation for our guests. The locations are selected to get guests off the beaten track, while still connected as best we can via public transport. Locations are usually close to cultural and natural attractions, with some amenities within a couple of kilometers.

WHAT ELEMENTS OF THE trip CAN BE TAILORED TO SUIT OUR GROUP?

We pride ourselves on being adaptable to guests' needs and is all part of our ethos to provide our groups with a bespoke trip. We are open to discussing anything you have in mind but typically the main items are as follows:

dates - rather than providing fixed dates we come up with a date that suits you.
destination - we listed some we think are good for trail running but if you have a dream destination in mind then let us know and we will try to make it work.
duration of trip
group size - usually 4 is the minimum to make the trips work, however, if you are less than this get in touch and we can discuss some options.
distance, speed, and frequency of each trail run - this can be adjusted within reason to suit the group running ability/aspirations.
food - we can cater for most diets with enough warning.
style of trip - shorter trail running retreat weekends or our longer trail running adventures. See below for how these differ.

WHAT are the main differences between nomadic running company trail running retreats and adventures?

There are a couple of main differences between nomadic running company trail running retreats and adventures. Our trail running retreats are our shorter style of trip, typically a long weekend. These are centrally located at a single accommodation that acts as a hub from which base ourselves. Trail running is often straight from this base or in the local vicinity.

Our trail running adventure holidays are more of a journey. They hop from one location to the next rarely staying in the same place for more than one night. They are fully supported with a vehicle carrying possession and additional supplies. Another way of looking at it is a trail running tour, here you cover a greater range as the duration of the trip is often longer.

HOW FAR DO I HAVE TO BE ABLE TO RUN?

Each weekend retreat has a blueprint of 3-4hrs of running on days 1 & 2 with an optional 30-45minute run on the third. Distances vary greatly on terrain type and group ability but we aim for approximately 21km or half marathon. On booking, we will discuss your experience level with you. While we do cater for everybody we can adapt and adjust the runs to suit the individual group needs. We typically would do a longer run Saturday and Sunday with a recovery session on Monday depending on the guest's arrangement.

Our trips cater for all running abilities, with some more focused on ability groups. We provide an 8-week training plan ahead of the trip to get you running fit. These trips are about giving your body and mind what it needs and rest is as important as running, so if you prefer to relax back at base to stretch and read a good book, we will ensure you have everything you need to be comfortable.

WHAT SORT OF TERRAIN WILL WE BE RUNNING ON?

Our guide carefully plans routes on varied terrain including forest tracks, mountain paths, and dirt roads. Sometimes a small amount of road running is required to get to a trailhead. We do aim to include some more technical sections where possible, but we do keep these limited and the guide will be able to assist guests if required.

WHAT WILL WE DO WHEN WE AREN'T RUNNING?

We take a balanced approach and ensure there is plenty of time to relax as well as run.

Outside of scheduled activities, there is always plenty to explore in the natural world and areas of cultural significance. Lose yourself in a good book or just watch the world go by from base, whether you're looking to explore or completely switch off there is plenty of time to completely unwind.

Community is also at the heart of what we do, and in the evenings we encourage guests to come together to eat, share stories, and get to know each other.

WHAT IS THE ACCOMMODATION LIKE?

We see each trip as a community adventure and as such the accommodation is always clean, comfortable, and social. We tend to avoid hotels and hostels preferring a single chalet, farmhouse or cabins where guests can relax and socialise. Due to the remote nature of some of our locations, and the desire to create a personal experience, some of the accommodation is no-frills, most bookings are on a twin-sharing basis and guests will often be required to share bathroom facilities. This is not always the case so please contact us for more information or a private room and bathroom are required. Each trip has more details on the specific accommodation arrangements.

CAN MY NON-RUNNER SPOUSE/FRIEND COME TOO?

Of course. Obviously running is a main activity in the trips but there is still plenty else to enjoy. We target locations and accommodations to allow for this and they form part of the group just like any other guest. Look on the individual trips page for other activities in the area, or get in touch and we can make sure it's suitable.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE TRIP COSTS?

Accommodation for the duration of the retreat

Meals/snacks as stated on each destination page

Pre-trip advice and communication

Experienced running guides

We cover everything that we see as central to the enjoyment of the guests.

The exact details for each are described on the individual trip page

WHAT ISN'T INCLUDED IN THE TRIP COSTS?

Travel/ accommodation getting to and from the location (this can be arranged for most locations)

Alcoholic drinks

Personal spending/ expenses

Travel insurance (essential) - please look for insurers that cover trail running.

Visas (where applicable)

Additional personal activities

WHY DON'T YOU INCLUDE TRAVEL/FLIGHTS?

Guest arrive from all over the world at different times and dates. With so many variables we can unfortunately not provide flights without the trip becoming to regimented. Instead, we give you the freedom of making your own travel arrangements. We are able to provide guidance on connections and will assist where possible. Refer to each trip for further more specific details.

WHAT SORT OF FOOD WILL WE BE EATING?

We aim to make our food both delicious and nutritious, providing you with everything your body needs. Where we have complete control we offer a predominately plant-based menu with some vegetarian items. Where we use local guesthouses or restaurants we have less control but expect local and seasonal meals. Please inform us of any allergies or intolerances on booking. Food is always plentiful and has been highly complimented on previous trips.

WHAT SHOULD I PACK?

This differs slightly from place to place and a mandatory and recommended packing list is provided on booking. Most of the trips are during summertime so this general list is a good start:

Generally, your favourite trail running kit, to include:

Trail shoes & running kit - like with race events we recommend bringing a tried and tested pair of shoes.

Cap

Sunglasses

The ability to carry water (hydration backpack)

Sun cream

Swimwear

Waterproof

WHAT IS THE NOMADIC RUNNING COMPANY'S STANCE ON ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT?

Here at the Nomadic Running Company, we look to protect the natural world for future generations of trail runners. We operate a strict leave-no-trace policy and aim where possible to reduce plastic waste and our carbon footprint. Where reduction is limited we carbon offset through a variety of different local and international programs, aiming to make a difference in both the places we run and the places that need the support most. We do this by not only offsetting but providing a net positive contribution.

By finding less trodden trails in a diverse range of locations, and operating in small groups we try to minimise the footfall, and therefore human impact, on the trails.

We realise travel is a luxury and welcome any thoughts and ideas about how we can help keep our trails clean and green.

Please contact us if you have any further questions.