The ÖTILLÖ Swimrun World Series returns to the Åland Islands on August 15–16, 2026, bringing one of the world’s most demanding endurance sports to one of its most stunning natural settings. Athletes from across the globe will converge on the Åland archipelago for a weekend of open-water swimming and trail running across the 6,700 islands that make up this unique Finnish region.
The Åland World Series event features multiple distances to accommodate different levels of experience. The full World Series course covers approximately 9.9 kilometers of swimming and 35.8 kilometers of running, with athletes transitioning between disciplines multiple times throughout the race. The course winds through the archipelago’s rugged coastline, past historic lighthouses, and along forested trails that showcase the raw beauty of the Baltic Sea landscape.
First held in 2025, the Åland edition quickly became a favorite on the Swimrun calendar. The event’s combination of crystal-clear waters, rocky shorelines, and the unique challenge of navigating between islands sets it apart from other races in the series. Local communities along the course come out to cheer on runners and swimmers, creating a festival-like atmosphere that embodies the Ålandic spirit of hospitality and outdoor life.
The 2026 edition also includes the ÖTILLÖ Sprint on Friday, August 14, offering a shorter format for newcomers and those looking for a taste of swimrun without the full distance. Race bib distribution takes place the evening before, giving participants time to familiarize themselves with the course and connect with fellow athletes from over 20 countries.
For spectators and supporters, the race offers plenty of vantage points along the course. The Åland archipelago’s natural beauty provides a dramatic backdrop, and local businesses, cafés, and restaurants in Käringsund and Eckerö welcome visitors throughout the race weekend. It’s a unique opportunity to experience world-class endurance sport in a setting that feels refreshingly remote and unspoiled.
Registration is open through the official ÖTILLÖ website, with early-bird pricing available well in advance. Whether you’re a seasoned swimrun athlete or a curious spectator, the Åland World Series promises an unforgettable weekend of sport, nature, and community in the heart of the Baltic.
Related reading: More Åland Islands stories | Sports & Outdoors | Events & Festivals