FAQ

What type of trips do Pure Trails Adventure run?

At Pure Trails Adventure, we arrange adventure running holidays to a range of remarkable destinations around the world. These are journeys rather than races, exploring the world one trail at a time.

We spend a lot of time scoping out the most amazing runs, selecting breathtaking routes that combine with cultural gems to deliver a trail running holiday like no other.

We keep our group sizes super small (max. 12) and we use expert running guides. We stay in beautiful boutique hotels in major cities and towns, and comfortable mountain lodging when on the trail. We jam-pack our trips with lots of added extras to cover most bases on a trip.

We included flexible daily running options which cater for runners of all abilities.

How far do I need to be able to run?

Our trips are designed for people of all running abilities. Fast or slow, it doesn’t matter as we look to deliver flexible daily runs on all of our trips.

A typical daily distance on our trips would be somewhere between 6km - 15km per day, depending on the trip this could be a longer daily distance of up to 15 - 20km. Our longest days do not go much higher than this. Our daily distances are also dictated by the terrain we run on, sometimes we cross mountain passes which take a bit of time to walk over which naturally takes longer to cover the distances.

Most importantly though, these are journeys rather than races and our group trips are managed accordingly to individuals running requirements, splitting the group if necessary if the desire is to run slower or faster. If you wish to run longer, we can easily extend this for you.

What type of terrain will we run on?

We prefer to travel on beautiful, empty trails to places which are reasonably off the beaten path.

As a result, of our destination choices, there is a range of terrains which we run upon. You can expect everything from beech forests, lush meadows, open pastures and soft grass in entry valleys.

We also do a lot of running in the mountains, being surrounded by lofty peaks. As a result some of our days include walking or running if steep mountain passes as we traverse from one valley to the next. As we go higher we expect the terrain to become dryer as we move over cobbles, stones and boulder sections.

Occasionally, we run at altitudes higher than 2,500m, but typically our ascent will not go over 1,500m.

What type of accommodation do you use?

We prefer to stay in characterful, boutique hotels and lodges which offer personality, rather than staying in larger resorts.

Location is key as it’s nice to get out and explore rather than be bused in to go sightseeing or shopping.

When we are out on the trail we will make the most of staying in cosy, simpler village guesthouses. Often these are alpine-style, surrounded by meadows with cows grazing, the gentle sounds of streams trickling past and panoramic views from every room.

Delicious and varied local meals are also a guarantee. Expect big plates of mozzarella, salads, olives, cured meats and lashings of local beer and wine at the end of well-earned day on the trail.

What happens to my luggage?

All of our trail running groups are fully-supported which means that you are only required to travel with a light pack, allowing us to travel more fluidly and giving the chance to focus on enjoying the experience in the process.

On our European trail running adventures, our large luggage will be transported ahead of us each morning by mini-van and will be left waiting for us in our rooms for our arrival later that day.

In destinations such as the Himalayas and the Albanian Alps, our large luggage will be transported ahead of us via yak, mule or porter. For such trips, we recommend bringing softer duffel bags which are easier to transport. A typical example will see our large luggage being transport several hours ahead of the groups’ departure where you will be reunited with your luggage at the end of the day.

Is it all running the entire trip?

Whilst these are trail running holidays with daily runs included, it’s a holiday after all and we feel it’s important to make the most of cultural interaction with sightseeing included alongside the running.

We combine our breathtaking routes with cultural gems which are carefully crafted to give you unique travel experiences whilst exploring the trail.

At the same time though we are flexible. If on a day you are feeling a bit tired and would prefer to explore an ancient Roman ruin rather than run through a mountain valley, we’ll make it happen for you.

What if I am a solo traveller?

No problem, a majority of people who join our trips are solo travellers.

All of our trips are set up for twin or double rooms which works well when we stay in smaller boutique lodging. We offer single supplements on all of our trips if you would prefer your own room.

What is included in the cost of the trip?

We include just about everything so you can focus on trail running in extraordinary places. All transfers, trail running, guiding, accommodation, most meals and cultural experiences are included.

The only additional costs you need to cover are for individual souvenirs, snacks, and beverages outside of what we offer. For example, if you fancy a local beer from a cafe partway through the day.

Do I arrange my own international flights?

Yes. We specialise in arranging excellent land-only arrangements with our ground team and do not book international flights. As there is a great variety of value flights departing from all over the world to the range of destinations we work in.

Throughout your booking process, we will discuss our trusted and recommended ways to book international flights through excellent ATOL protected partners who offer great value, ease of service and flight protection.

Let us know your arrival and departure details in advance and we will take care of everything else from the moment your land.

What type of food do we eat on the trip?

Part of the joy of travelling to the destinations we visit is the local cuisine. Fresh eggs, salads, cured meats, fish, olives, curries, and rice dishes…the list is endless. We want you to experience the local culture at it’s best, which certainly involves diving into the huge diversity of delicious dishes we will find everywhere we visit.

In Nepal, we will eat tasty Dhal Bhat curries served with poppadoms, local vegetables, and steamed dumplings. In the Mediterranean fresh, vibrant salads will be delivered for lunch while in the evening we eat moussakas, paellas and other wonders which are complimented for great wines and beers.

What do I need to pack?

Certainly your trail running shoes!

As each of our trips climates and terrains vary we will send out a trip specific adventure pack which will cover the types of kit and clothing required. We send this in advance so that there is time for you to purchase anything you do not already own.

What about dietary requirements?

No problem, we can take care of anything and everything. All destinations we deal with are used to catering with a variety of dietary requirements. Please inform us in advance and we will ensure this is taken care of for you.

What’s the payment schedule for your trips?

A deposit payment confirms your spot on the trip. Then there is nothing else to pay until your final balance is due 12 weeks before departure. Terms and conditions apply to payments and we will make you aware of these when signing up to one of our adventures.

In some circumstances we may need to a larger deposit or an interim deposit, but not without telling you first. Our trip details will be clearly explained before signing up.

I have another question which isn’t answered here?

Great, we like answering questions. If there is anything we’ve missed or something you’d like to ask us directly please do not hesitate to email us at explore@pure-trails.com.

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