FAQs
Questions
people ask
If your question is not answered here, email us. We would rather answer it before you enter than after.
These are the questions we are actually asked, grouped by what people are really deciding.
01
Event Information
What is the Monster Triathlon?
The Monster Triathlon is a unique seven-day endurance adventure from the shores of Loch Ness to the finish line in London. Over the course of the week, you'll complete a 5 km swim, more than 1,000 km of cycling and a 50 km run, travelling through some of the UK's most spectacular landscapes with a dedicated support team alongside you every step of the way.
When is the Monster Triathlon?
The Monster Triathlon 2027 takes place from Sunday 6 June to Saturday 12 June 2027.
Is the Monster Triathlon a race?
No. The Monster Triathlon isn't about racing the clock or competing against other participants. It's about completing an extraordinary journey at your own pace.
While everyone wants to challenge themselves, the atmosphere is supportive rather than competitive, and many participants say it's the shared experience and friendships they remember long after crossing the finish line.
How difficult is the event?
It's a big challenge - there's no denying that. Covering more than 1,000 km over seven consecutive days will test you both physically and mentally.
The good news is that with consistent training and commitment, it's an achievable goal for many amateur cyclists. You won't be doing it alone either. The event is fully supported, with our experienced team on hand throughout the week to provide logistics, mechanical support, nutrition, medical assistance, and encouragement whenever you need it. Our job is to make sure you can focus on the challenge while we take care of the rest.
Who takes part in the Monster Triathlon?
All sorts of people take on the Monster Triathlon. Some have years of endurance racing behind them, while others are taking on their first multi-day event.
The one thing everyone has in common is a desire to challenge themselves. You don't have to be an athlete - if you're willing to train, stay committed, and give it your best, you'll be in good company.
Are there any age restrictions?
Yes. All participants must be aged 18 or over on the day the event begins.
Can I complete the Monster Triathlon if I've never done anything like this before?
Yes. Many of our participants have never taken on a multi-day endurance event before. While previous triathlon experience can help, it's far more important that you're willing to train consistently and commit to the challenge. With the support of our team before and during the event, many first-time participants successfully complete the Monster Triathlon every year.
02
Training
Do I need to be an experienced triathlete?
No. Plenty of people come to the Monster Triathlon with more experience in one discipline than the others. Some are stronger cyclists, others are runners, and many haven't done a multi-day event before. What's most important is that you're committed to your training and arrive ready for the challenge.
How much training should I do before the event?
That depends on your current fitness and experience, but the more prepared you are, the more you'll enjoy the week. We recommend building up your swimming, cycling and running over several months, with a focus on consistency. The real challenge isn't just getting through one day - it's waking up and doing it all again the next morning.
Do you provide a training plan?
Yes. Every participant receives a base training plan to help guide their preparation. It's designed to give you structure, build confidence and make sure you're ready for the demands of the event.
What's the best way to prepare?
The Monster Triathlon is unique because you'll be exercising for seven consecutive days. We recommend incorporating back-to-back training sessions into your training, as well as building experience across all three disciplines. Consistency is far more important than speed.
How should I prepare for the Loch Ness swim?
We recommend spending as much time open water swimming as possible before the event. This will help you become comfortable swimming in natural environments and cooler water temperatures.
Can I complete the event if I'm not fast?
Absolutely. The event is designed to be inclusive rather than competitive. The goal is to complete the journey, not race against other participants.
03
Equipment
Do I need a wetsuit?
Yes. A wetsuit is compulsory for the Loch Ness swim.
We also recommend preparing for cold-water conditions with appropriate kit, including:
- A wetsuit suitable for your cold-water tolerance
- Neoprene gloves
- Neoprene socks or swim boots
- A neoprene swim cap
- A brightly coloured silicone swim cap for visibility
What type of bike should I bring?
Most participants use a road bike, but any well-maintained bike suitable for long-distance riding can be used. The most important thing is that you're comfortable spending long days in the saddle.
What should I pack?
The British weather can be unpredictable, so we recommend preparing for all conditions. A detailed kit list will be included in your participant guide before the event.
Is mechanical support available?
Yes. Our event mechanic travels with the group and carries a range of tools and spare parts. While we'll do everything we can to help, participants should still bring basic spares specific to their bike.
Do I need insurance?
We strongly recommend taking out suitable insurance for yourself, your bike and your equipment before the event.
04
Accommodation
Is accommodation included?
Yes. Your entry includes six nights of hotel accommodation, so everything is taken care of from the moment you finish each day's stage. Breakfast and your evening meal are also included each day.
Will I have my own room?
Rooms are twin share as standard. If you'd prefer your own room, you can add a single room supplement when you register, subject to availability.
What standard of hotels can I expect?
You'll stay in a carefully selected mix of comfortable hotels along the route, including several four-star spa hotels. After a long day on the road, you'll have everything you need to rest, recover and get ready for the next stage. Secure bike storage is provided at each overnight stop.
What happens to my luggage?
You won't need to worry about your luggage during the event. We'll transport your main bag between each overnight stop and place it in your room before you arrive. That means you can finish each day's stage, check in and relax, while we take care of the logistics.
05
Nutrition
Are meals included?
Yes. All of your meals are included throughout the event, including breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Our team takes care of the catering each day, so you can focus on the challenge knowing you'll be well fuelled from start to finish.
Will there be feed stations on the bike route?
Yes. Each cycling stage includes three fully stocked feed stations, offering a selection of drinks, snacks and energy foods. The middle feed station also serves hot food, giving you the opportunity to properly refuel before the second half of the day.
Can you cater for dietary requirements?
Of course. We can accommodate most dietary requirements and food allergies. Simply let us know when you register, and our catering team will ensure suitable meals and snacks are available throughout the event.
Should I bring my own nutrition products?
We'll provide everything you need to stay fuelled during the event. However, if you regularly train with specific gels, bars or drink mixes, you're welcome to bring them along. Many participants prefer to stick with the products they know work best on long endurance days.
06
Registration
When do I need to arrive?
Participants should arrive in Fort Augustus by 10:30am on Sunday 6 June 2027, ready for registration at 11:00am. This gives you plenty of time to get checked in, meet the team and settle in before the adventure begins.
What happens at registration?
Registration is straightforward and designed to get you ready for the week ahead. You'll collect your event pack, receive your luggage labels, rack your bike and have the opportunity to speak with our event team. Our mechanic will also be available if you'd like a final bike check or any last-minute adjustments.
What information will I receive before the event?
In the lead-up to the event, we'll send you a detailed participant guide with everything you need to know before you arrive. It covers travel, accommodation, kit recommendations, route information, event timings and plenty of practical advice, so you'll arrive feeling fully prepared.
Can I transfer my entry?
If your plans change, please get in touch with our team as soon as possible. We'll talk you through the options available and do our best to help.
07
Travel
How do I get to the start?
The Monster Triathlon begins at The Highland Club in Fort Augustus, in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Whether you're travelling by car, train or plane, we'll send you detailed travel information before the event, along with everything you need to make your journey as smooth and straightforward as possible.
Should I arrive the day before?
Yes. We recommend arriving on Saturday 5 June so you can settle in, get a good night's rest and be ready for registration on Sunday morning. It's the best way to start the week feeling relaxed and prepared.
Is parking available at the start?
There isn't any parking available at The Highland Club. Participants can be dropped off at the venue, and public pay-and-display parking is available just a short walk away in Fort Augustus.
Do you offer bike transport?
Yes. To make travelling easier, we offer optional bike transport from London. Simply drop your bike off before the event, and we'll have it waiting for you in Scotland, built and ready for the start.
What happens if I'm flying to Scotland with my bike?
If you're travelling with your own bike and a bike box, we can transport your empty bike box back to London after the start of the event. Just let us know in advance, and we'll take care of the rest.
08
At the Event
How is the swim supported?
Your Loch Ness swim is fully supported from the moment you enter the water. Our experienced safety team, including kayaks, paddleboards, a dedicated safety boat and shore-based medical cover, stays alongside participants throughout the swim and is ready to assist whenever needed.
The swim takes place on a marked 500-metre course close to the shoreline, allowing you to exit the water at the end of any lap if required. While the event is designed to be challenging, your safety is always our priority.
What happens after the swim?
Once you've completed the swim, you'll have access to changing facilities before beginning the ride to Fort William.
While you're in the water, we'll transport your main luggage directly to your hotel room. You'll only need a small transition bag for your cycling kit and swim gear, which we'll collect and transport once you've finished the swim.
What support is available during the week?
The Monster Triathlon is fully supported from start to finish. Throughout the week you'll have access to experienced event staff, medical and mechanical support, support vehicles, fully stocked feed stations, GPS tracking, daily briefings and luggage transfers. Our team is there every day to keep the event running smoothly, so you can focus on the challenge ahead.
What happens if I need medical assistance?
Your safety is our priority. Our experienced medical team is with the event throughout the week, including a dedicated paramedic travelling with the group. Whether it's treating a minor issue or responding to an emergency, help is always close by.
What does a typical day look like?
While every stage is different, the structure of each day is much the same.
Each morning starts with breakfast followed by a rider briefing, where we'll cover the day's route, weather, feed station locations and any important safety information.
You'll then head out on the day's stage, following the GPX route with support available throughout. On the cycling days, you'll pass three fully stocked feed stations, with hot food available at the middle stop.
At the end of each stage, your luggage will already be waiting in your hotel room. After checking in, there's time to shower, recover, enjoy dinner with the group and prepare for the next day's adventure before the following morning's briefing.
The final day finishes with a 50 km run along the Thames into Twickenham, where friends and family are welcome to cheer you across the finish line before celebrating together.
Will I have to navigate myself?
We'll provide GPX files well before the event, so you can load the routes onto your bike computer or watch before arriving.
Navigation is straightforward, with key locations such as feed stations clearly signposted, and every participant is tracked throughout the event. If you leave the planned route, our team will be able to track you and, can contact or assist you if needed.
What do I receive at the finish?
Crossing the finish line is something you'll never forget. Every finisher receives a commemorative medal and is welcomed with food, drinks and a finish-line celebration shared with fellow participants, friends and family.
Can friends and family come to the finish?
Absolutely. Friends and family are encouraged to join us in Twickenham to celebrate your achievement. After seven unforgettable days, there's no better place to share the moment with the people who've supported you along the way.
Still stuck?
Ask us directly
Still deciding?
Download the Monster Route Guide and see the full week, stage by stage, before you commit. We will also send you the kit list and the questions most people ask before they enter.