Croatia Set to Host the Adventure Racing World Championship 2027, Showcasing Its Spectacular Natural Beauty and Emerging Adventure Tourism Hub

Published on December 20, 2025

Croatia is set to host the Adventure Racing World Championship (ARWC) in 2027, marking a significant milestone for the country’s growing adventure tourism sector. With its breathtaking landscapes, from rugged mountains to serene coastlines, Croatia is the perfect backdrop for this globally recognized endurance event. The championship, which combines multiple disciplines like trekking, cycling, and kayaking, will test the limits of athletes in some of the most remote and scenic regions of the country. This event not only promises to highlight Croatia’s natural beauty but also positions the nation as an emerging hub for adventure tourism, attracting visitors seeking thrilling, immersive experiences in the heart of Europe.

The Adventure Racing World Championship (ARWC) 2027 is set to take place in the stunning landscapes of Croatia, a country renowned for its diverse natural beauty. Hosted by Adventure Race Croatia (ARC), this prestigious event will bring together the world’s best adventure racers for a thrilling competition in September 2027. The race will cover a variety of challenging terrains, offering participants a unique opportunity to explore Croatia’s vast and unspoiled wilderness, from dense forests and rugged mountains to serene rivers and beautiful coastlines.

Adventure racing, a grueling endurance sport that combines multiple disciplines such as trekking, cycling, kayaking, and navigation, will test the physical and mental limits of athletes from across the globe. Croatia’s varied geography, coupled with its well-developed infrastructure, makes it an ideal location for such a demanding event. Participants will race through some of the country’s most iconic and remote regions, facing obstacles that will challenge their strength, teamwork, and decision-making skills. Spectators will have the chance to witness high-level competition in one of Europe’s most scenic settings.

The Adventure Racing World Championship 2027 will also be an important event for the local tourism industry, drawing international attention to Croatia’s growing reputation as a hub for adventure tourism. With its rich cultural heritage, medieval towns, and stunning national parks, Croatia is poised to showcase its potential as a premier destination for active travelers. The championship will not only promote adventure sports but also highlight the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism, with a focus on preserving its natural landscapes for future generations.

As September 2027 approaches, preparations for the event are already underway, with Adventure Race Croatia working closely with local authorities and international partners to ensure a smooth and successful championship. The ARWC 2027 will be a celebration of endurance, adventure, and the spirit of exploration, providing a platform for athletes to push their limits while promoting Croatia’s unparalleled natural beauty to a global audience.

Race Director Igor Dorotić of Remarkable Events said, “Hosting the Adventure Racing World Championship has been my dream from the first Adventure Race Croatia.”

“In 2027, our goal is to deliver the kind of race I would want to compete in myself. It will be navigationally fun, with beautiful, rideable bike sections, amazing trekking stages, and kayaking that will satisfy even the most demanding racers.

“Croatia may be a small country, but the variety of nature, culture, and terrain we can bring into a single course is extraordinary. We want teams to experience all of it and to remember this championship for a long time.”

Since its inclusion in the Adventure Racing World Series in 2018, Adventure Race Croatia has become a must-do event for top-tier racing teams, attracting some of the world’s finest athletes. Notably, the Swedish Armed Forces Adventure Team, the current World Champions, have clinched the title twice at ARC.

The race courses are crafted to showcase both Croatia’s stunning natural landscapes and its rich cultural heritage, offering participants an immersive and authentic experience. Strategic navigation, smart route choices, and tactical planning are critical components of the race, designed by Dorotić. The event is also known for its brisk, high-paced stages that are typically shorter than those found in many other multi-day adventure races.

With Croatia’s diverse landscapes, Mediterranean climate, and well-established infrastructure, including excellent transportation, security, and facilities, it has become a prime destination for global tourism and a perfect, affordable location for a World Championship event.

Speaking about his plans Dorotić continued, “The course is being designed to be remARCable in every sense and to showcase the very best that Croatia has to offer.

“It will cross different regions of Croatia, guiding athletes through dramatic mountain landscapes, pristine rivers, the Adriatic Sea and islands, dense forests, and areas rich with cultural and historical heritage. Teams can expect a course that reveals the incredible diversity of Croatia, highlighting contrasts in vegetation, climate, and terrain.

Few countries offer such strong contrasts over short distances; including high karst mountains, islands, canyons, rivers, historic towns, and untouched wilderness.”

The route is anticipated to span approximately 700km and will be available for up to 7 days. It will feature a combination of mandatory and optional checkpoints, a system typically utilized by ARC to give every team the opportunity to stay on track and ultimately cross the finish line.

CEO of the Adventure Racing World Series, Heidi Muller congratulated Dorotić and Adventure Race Croatia on securing the World Championship. “The Adventure Racing World Series is all about living our dreams and for Igor this is the realisation of his dream to stage a World Championship and show how beautiful his country is.

Croatia will host the Adventure Racing World Championship (ARWC) in 2027, showcasing its stunning landscapes and establishing itself as a premier adventure tourism destination. With its diverse terrains, from mountains to coastlines, the event promises an unforgettable challenge for athletes. This marks a significant step in Croatia’s rise as an adventure tourism hub in Europe.

“The ARWS also has a philosophy of achieving excellence in all we do and Igor is renowned for his meticulous organisation and stunning courses. He is an experienced racer and referee as well, and has a clear concept for his races.

“Teams will know exactly what to expect, and will have a superb experience exploring Croatia on his World Championship course.”