The legendary Stipe Božić is coming to the 4th edition of HIGHLANDER Velebit

In less than two weeks, a true hiking adventure begins – HIGHLANDER Velebit. This year, along with the already known route of about 100 kilometers, participants will also experience an adventure of 55 kilometers – HIGHLANDER55 – which will be held for the first time this year. As this Velebit adventure is improved every year to provide participants with the best possible experience and a greater adventure of a lifetime, this year is no exception, but with an added dose of responsibility and adherence to all epidemiological protection measures.

The HIGHLANDER Velebit route of 100 kilometers will start in the mountains and end at the sea, meaning participants will start at Zavižan, and the finish line and the title of HIGHLANDER will await them in Starigrad – Paklenica. Due to its length and the more demanding terrain that passes through the oldest beech primeval forest and the special reserve of forest vegetation Ramin’s trough, it is a true test of endurance and strength even for more experienced hikers.

‘’Literally, Petar and I are counting down the days until we go to HIGHLANDER Velebit. We can’t wait! I think this is actually the perfect opportunity to hike Velebit with excellent HIGHLANDER organization and logistics. What really excites me is that I will experience the wild Velebit by day and overnight, have the chance to sleep under the stars, fully enjoy the moment, push my own limits in those 104 kilometers, and meet people from all over the world with whom I will share different hiking experiences.’’ – emphasized HIGHLANDER ambassador Anna Soldo

HIGHLANDER55 is the newest and shortest event in the HIGHLANDER hiking series. The 55-kilometer route starts at Zavižan, passes through the architectural masterpiece Premužić Trail, and ends in Baške Oštarije. Participants have 3 days to complete the route, which is perfect for beginners in hiking and those who can only afford a weekend of relaxation with adventure and a return to nature due to work and/or other obligations.

The true value of the HIGHLANDER event strengthens with every kilometer crossed, every victory over oneself, and over the thought of giving up. This kind of challenge, where participants test their physical limits and overcome their mental ones, while also forming new friendships, exploring new places, and strengthening relationships with friends, family members, or colleagues with whom they have decided to embark on this hiking adventure, is truly unique and everyone should try it.

The value and true treasure of HIGHLANDER Velebit, along with participants many of whom return year after year, have also been recognized by some big names from the hiking world, such as ultra-light trekking enthusiasts Marie Couderc and Nil Hoppenot, better known as Deux Pas Vers L’Autre, who have hiked over 10,000 kilometers through 16 European countries in 746 days. Alongside them, the ambassador of the adventure of a lifetime this year has become Peter Watson, one of the founders of the outdoor travel blog Atlas & Boots, which this year won the title for the best outdoor travel blog in the world. All of them will traverse the HIGHLANDER Velebit routes and experience the power of Velebit firsthand and live their adventures of a lifetime.

‘’For me, this is the perfect blend between a guided ‘’trek’’ and a self-sufficient expedition. While HIGHLANDER takes care of the logistics, I can still enjoy the freedom that comes with hiking, with the added bonus of not having to carry such a heavy backpack and search for a suitable camping spot at the end of each day.’’ – said Peter Watson, HIGHLANDER ambassador

However, probably the most famous HIGHLANDER ambassador is Stipe Božić, one of the best climbers in the world who has conquered the highest peaks on all continents, and has even conquered the formidable Mount Everest twice. He will greet and send off all HIGHLANDER participants at the Start, and on Baške Oštarije on September 13 and 14, he will present his monograph ''Dream of Everest''.

HIGHLANDER55 and HIGHLANDER Velebit start on September 12 and last until the 15th and 17th, respectively. All those brave enough to take on this ultimate hiking event and eager to escape the concrete jungle to the life of a true HIGHLANDER, at least for a few days, should register as soon as possible as there are only a few available entries left, and more than 350 participants are expected at the Start.

More information about the event and the registration link is available here.