Lofoten trail running weekend
This is not just a running weekend.
This is Lofoten. With Shanga. For women only.
Two exclusive women-only trail running weekend in one of the world’s most dramatic mountain landscapes, guided by one of Norway’s leading mountain runners, Shanga Balendran.
21-24 May & 1-4 October 2026
This is not about ticking off kilometres or chasing Strava segments.
This is about technique, confidence, flow and connection with the terrain, your body, and a small group of like-minded women.
Together with Shanga, you’ll spend three inspiring days running in raw Lofoten terrain, developing your skills and rediscovering the joy of moving freely in the mountains.
Why this running weekend is different
- a small, carefully curated experience designed for quality over quantity.
- Women only
- Limited group size
- Personal coaching and guidance
- Technical trail running in real mountain terrain
- Base at historic Svinøya Rorbuer
- A balanced mix of challenging sessions and recovery
You’ll work on:
- uphill and downhill technique
- movement efficiency in technical terrain
- confidence on narrow trails and rocky ground
- mental strength and decision-making in the mountains
This weekend is about becoming a stronger, more confident mountain runner.
A running weekend for women who:
- run regularly and enjoy trail running
- want to feel safer and stronger in the mountains
- are curious about learning from a top-level athlete
- value community, inspiration and shared experiences
- want to discover Lofoten as a world-class running destination
- are motivated to improve and challenge themselves
Safety & adaptation
All sessions are adapted to:
- current weather and trail conditions
- group level and experience
- safe progression in technical terrain
You’ll always run with an experienced, locally knowledgeable mountain runner, and safety is a top priority.
More than just running
Between sessions there’s time for:
- technique breakdowns and discussions
- recovery and refuelling
- great food and warm rorbuer
- relaxed conversations and shared experiences
This is as much mental and emotional recharge as it is physical development.
Dates & Seasonal Conditions
21–24 May – Spring in Lofoten
Light, contrasts and raw energy
May marks the transition from winter to summer in Lofoten.
What to expect:
- Very long daylight hours – the sun barely sets
- Cool, fresh temperatures (typically 5–12°C)
- Snow may still be present at higher elevations
- Bare trails and spring conditions lower down
- Crisp air and dramatic light
Routes and sessions are adapted to conditions, with a strong focus on safe and controlled movement in changing terrain.
Perfect if you want to experience Lofoten at its most powerful and dynamic.
1–4 October – Autumn in Lofoten
Crisp air, strong colours and pure focus
October is a favourite month for experienced mountain runners.
What to expect:
- Cool, stable temperatures (typically 3–10°C)
- Often dry trails and excellent grip
- Spectacular autumn colours and low-angle light
- Quieter mountains and a calm atmosphere
- Possibility of northern lights in the evenings
Conditions are often ideal for technical running and downhill work, with a strong focus on flow and precision.
Perfect if you want focused training in stunning autumn scenery.
VJ is proud to be part of this event!
Limited Availability
To ensure quality and safety, this weekend is offered to a limited number of participants only.
When it’s full, it’s full.
This is your chance to experience Lofoten from the inside, running it, not just looking at it.
Possible to win great draw prizes from, among others, VJ.
Dates: 21–24 May & 1–4 October 2026
Price per person: from NOK 13,250
Who is it for: Women who want to learn more and develop as mountain runners
Requirements: Participants should have some experience with running and mountain terrain
Who is Shanga Balendran?
Shanga is originally from Oslo but has found her home in Kabelvåg, Lofoten, where she has lived and worked for the past five years. With deep local knowledge of the mountains and trails in the area, she takes you to some of the very best running experiences Lofoten has to offer. She spends most of her free time outdoors, and mountain running is her first and greatest passion.
With more than ten years of experience in mountain running and a broad athletic background including track and field, Shanga now competes as an elite athlete in international mountain and skyrunning races. She has achieved multiple victories and podium finishes both nationally and internationally, including Norwegian Championship gold in trail ultra running and European Championship gold in skyrunning. Alongside her high-level athletic expertise, she is known for her strong communication skills, infectious enthusiasm and a clear focus on enjoying the mountains and having fun while running.
As a trained medical doctor with a special interest in exercise physiology, public health and nutrition, Shanga is deeply committed to sustainable running. Her approach focuses on building endurance and performance in a way that is kind to the body, supports long-term development, and preserves the joy of moving freely in nature.
Yoga & Massage with Selena Raven Cordeau
Start the day with gentle, functional morning yoga designed to prepare the body for running in mountain terrain. The sessions focus on mobility, breathing and presence, an ideal way to wake up the body and support performance and recovery.
Morning yoga on Friday and Saturday is included in the program.
For additional recovery, massage can be booked as an optional extra. Massage helps release tension, supports recovery and prepares the body for the weekend’s training sessions.
Massage: NOK 900 per 45 minutes
