The Fjällräven Classic is now becoming synonymous as one of Fjällräven’s iconic community events whereby hundreds and sometimes thousands of people join together to simply go on a hike.
As Fjällräven themselves say - ‘The idea came directly from Fjällräven founder Åke Nordin at the start of the 21st century. He had always been inspired by the dramatic landscapes and breathtaking scenery of the Swedish mountains. And he wanted others to explore the same landscapes and, more importantly, the same feeling of freedom from spending a few days trekking on the trail. His solution was Fjällräven Classic.’
Fjällräven decided to host the first British Classic back in September within the heart of the Cairngorms, Scotland. The route, approximately 65kms in length, would take 3-4 days and take in some epic Scottish scenery, starting and finishing at Mar Lodge near Braemar, and I was lucky enough to be invited out by my own friend and friend of Fjallraven Ian Finch to experience this trip first hand.
The journey to get there is only part of the story. As it turns out, people from all over the world had come to this Classic - Americans, Koreans and some Swedes, the Classics really do seem to attract a whole range of global participants with some having attended numerous other Classics around the world.
The location this year was pretty spectacular. Mar Lodge itself is very grand in its presence. With its long drive way down to the Lodge itself and its surrounding hills and forests, you do certainly feel like you’re in the middle of the Scottish wilderness. Now part of National Trust Scotland, its previously life used to be that of a hunting lodge. This soon became apparent as one of the outer buildings had its ceiling and walls completely covered in antlers. It really was something to behold. I know Scotland is renowned for its deer hunts, but this was something to really take in and definitely not for the faint hearted.
As part of the Classic, Fjällräven provide meals for the event. I had never eaten Real Turmat expedition foods before, but they definitely tasted good! Along side this, a map was provided and some other little goodies to help with the trip. There would also be resupply stations along the way meaning you didn’t have to carry vast quantities of food from the start.
Day 1 of the hike seemed relatively straight forward. We were led off by a bag piper to really set the scene in gorgeous sunshine. The terrain wouldn’t be too undulating and we’d be following a path the majority of the way. You definitely felt like you were in the Scottish backcountry, passing streams, old disused buildings and many a fir tree. Not forgetting being surrounded by lowland hills. Along the entire route, we’d be stopping off at check points to get our little passport books stamped - a simple way for the organisers to see your progress and make sure everyone is accounted for. The Classic after all, is aimed at all abilities and is meant to be an experience shared, not a Fastest Known Time or a route march. Heading off at a reasonable pace, I must admit it’s great to see an event like this taking place. I’m normally heading out on multi day treks either as a pair or a very small group, so to see so many people covering the same route and enjoying themselves and the scenery was certainly a lovely thought and experience.
There’s not really much to it I guess - you just put one foot in front of the other and walk, and you try and get as far as you can before you make camp. There were some suggested areas to camp though however due to land access permissions, but otherwise, you could camp where you felt. As it turned out, end of day 1 turned into a little tent town. At least the notorious midges weren’t out in force - September is probably one of the best times to get out in to Scotland.
Day 2 consisted of some miserable weather heading upwards before heading back down in some much better weather and making your way as far as you can, taking in the scenery and having a good chat along the way. There’s a reason why Fjallraven provide a packing list. You definitely need to make sure you have your waterproofs with you in the ever changing Scottish weather! We certainly entered in to some glorious weather though as we made our way through some forestry sections. Really was beautiful. Although with an apparent storm rolling in, the organisers advised staying at one of the check points which instead of tent town, became tent city. I don’t think I’d seen so many tents crammed in to one spot. Reason being that heading upwards after the check point would be pretty barren with very little shelter compared to the check point that was somewhat sheltered in a little valley.
Day 3 though and the weather was certainly against us. Pretty grey and drizzly, but with high spirits, which is the main thing. Yet I don’t think I’ve ever walked on such an incessantly uneven path before. It was pretty gnarly from my recollection. Pavement pounding is hard but this was something else which went on for several miles. Even veteran hikes and outdoor enthusiasts were saying how gnarly that was on our feet. A little river crossing and an escape in to some woods for some lunch certainly helped break it up. It’s surprising how much hot food can make an impact on morale. Yet the final camp spot was only a few kms from Mar Lodge, so instead of camping, many including ourselves, trudged on back to the lodge where again we were greeted by a piper and a finish line crossing with a cheeky beer and some Fjallraven trip souvenirs to boot.
Then, we partied. On the evening of last day, a Ceilidh had been arranged in the hall of antlers. Certainly a surreal experience to say the least but indeed a very fun evening with a bit of booze, lots of fun and laughter and great times all round. What more could you ask for?!
So, if you’ve ever fancied going on an organised hike, I would highly recommend a Fjällräven Classic. Definitely a believer that adventures are best shared, and even if you’re going solo, there’ll no doubt be many people to enjoy the good times with. You’ll definitely be making new friends along the way.
Big thanks to walking companions Matt Buckley, Ian Finch, Jamie Barnes, Clare Dyson and Anna Blackwell.
