The 54-kilometer trek from Rena to Lillehammer stands as a hallmark of the season, featuring challenging climbs, expansive mountain vistas, and a finish imbued with Olympic heritage.
Inaugurated in 1932, the Birkebeinerrennet pays tribute to the perilous rescue of infant Prince Haakon Haakonsson in 1206, where two Birkebeiner warriors traversed the mountains to ensure his safety. To honor this historic journey, every participant carries a 3.5kg backpack throughout the race. This symbolism, along with the rigorous course, has solidified Birkebeinerrennet as one of the most esteemed and culturally important events on the Pro Tour schedule.
A challenging and historic route across the mountains
The course steadily ascends from the start in Rena, climbing 1059 meters and peaking at 906 meters above sea level. After the initial ascent, skiers are rewarded with sweeping views of Norway’s winter panorama before tackling the long second climb and the quick, technical descent into Lillehammer’s Olympic stadium.
“Birkebeinerrennet is more than just a ski race — it is a homage to strength, endurance, and historical bravery. Each stride carries the legacy of those who transported the Royal Prince across the mountains in 1206. We take pride in hosting one of the iconic races during Ski Classics Season XVII,” said Jostein Buraas, CEO of Birkebeinerrennet, in a previous statement.
Also Read – Birkebeinerrennet: The concluding Grand Classics event of Season XVII
This event frequently influences both the women’s and men’s overall standings, and as the last Grand Classics of the season, the pressure on athletes and Pro Teams will be at its highest.
Birkebeinerrennet – Ski Classics Pro Tour Event 10
- Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026
- Location: Rena–Lillehammer, Norway
- Distance: 54km Classic Technique
- Highest Point: 906m
- Elevation Gain: 1059m
- Last Edition Winners: Stina Nilsson (2:44:48.1) and Andreas Nygaard (2:20:15.2)
- SC Play: Birkebeinerrennet
For additional information about Birkebeinerrennet, visit HERE.
Where to stay: from the start village tranquility to Olympic luxury
The event links two contrasting environments: the serene forest surroundings of Rena and the dynamic Olympic backdrop of Lillehammer.
Rena provides a small-town vibe with the advantage of proximity to the start line. Athletes can opt for traditional Birken house accommodations, basic lodgings arranged by event organizers, or comfort at places like Trudvang Hotel and Granlund Guesthouse. Cabins and private rentals are also favored, particularly among groups and Pro Teams. Shuttle buses facilitate transport from accommodations to the starting point at Tingstadjordet on race morning.
Lillehammer extends a wider selection of recovery and comfort post-race, featuring central accommodations such as Scandic Victoria Lillehammer, Mølla Hotel, and Birkebeineren Hotel & Apartments. For those seeking a more secluded mountain experience, cabins and lodges in Sjusjøen, Nordseter, and Hafjell are easily accessible to ski trails and offer scenic views.
Dining options: local and global cuisine
Rena’s compact center provides several convenient dining choices before race day. Åmot Kulturhus Café, located within the same building as bib pick-up, serves as a popular gathering spot in the days leading up to the event. Milano Restaurant & Pizzeria and Andaman Thai & Sushi Restaurant offer dependable meals as the race approaches.
In Lillehammer, athletes and spectators can select from a blend of contemporary Nordic dishes and traditional Norwegian favorites. Notable dining spots include Kjøpstaden Brasserie & Bar, Bryggerikjelleren steakhouse, Lillehammer Bakeri, Hvelvet Restaurant, and the family-friendly Lille Pannekakehuset, making for perfect celebration venues after the race.
Attractions and experiences
Rena, a tranquil village in Østerdalen, is enveloped by forests, crisp winter air, and a distinct pre-race atmosphere. Many participants enjoy a quick ski on nearby trails or take the time to unwind and prepare for the race.
Lillehammer, the site of the 1994 Winter Olympics, boasts several key attractions. Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena offers stunning views of the town, the Maihaugen open-air museum showcases Norway’s architectural heritage, and the Norwegian Olympic Museum provides insights into the Olympic legacy through unique artifacts and multimedia exhibits.
A pivotal moment in the concluding phase of Season XVII
As the final Grand Classics event of the season, Birkebeinerrennet carries significant implications for the overall standings, frequently influencing the competition for the Yellow, Green, Pink, and Climb bibs. With its rich heritage, challenging terrain, and strong cultural identity, it stands as one of the hallmark events in long-distance skiing.
Skiers, spectators, and fans following the Pro Tour can anticipate an unforgettable experience as Pro Teams traverse the mountains between Rena and Lillehammer, continuing one of Norway’s most cherished winter traditions.
Stay tuned for the action
Full live coverage of Birkebeinerrennet will be available on the streaming platform SC Play with English commentary.
Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XVII (2025/2026)
- Event 1: December 13, 2025 — Bad Gastein Pro Team Tempo — Sportgastein, Austria, 7 km.
- Event 2: December 14, 2025 — Bad Gastein Criterium — Sportgastein, Austria, 36 km.
- Event 3: January 17, 2026 — Engadin La Diagonela — Pontresina-Zuoz, Switzerland, 55 km.
- Event 4: January 25, 2026 — Marcialonga — Moena-Cavalese, Italy, 70 km.
- Event 5: January 30, 2026 — Bedřichov Sprint — Bedřichov, Czech Republic, 1.5 km.
- Event 6: February 1, 2026 — Jizerská50 — Bedřichov, Czech Republic, 50 km.
- Event 7: March 1, 2026 — Vasaloppet — Sälen-Mora, Sweden, 90 km.
- Event 8: March 7, 2026 — Orsa Grönklitt 50k ITT Women — Grönklitt, Sweden, 50 km.
- Event 9: March 8, 2026 — Orsa Grönklitt 50k ITT Men — Grönklitt, Sweden, 50 km.
- Event 10: March 14, 2026 — Birkebeinerrennet — Rena-Lillehammer, Norway, 54 km.
- Event 11: March 21, 2026 — Marcialonga Bodø — Bodø, Norway, 50 km.
- Event 12: March 28, 2026 — Reistadloppet — Setermoen-Bardufoss, Norway, 35 km.
- Event 13: March 29, 2026 — Grand Final Summit 2 Senja — Bardufoss-Finnsnes, Norway, 60 km.
For updates and detailed information about the Ski Classics Pro Tour, visit skiclassics.com.
Interested in ski classics and long-distance racing? Click HERE to learn more.
As a member of ProXCskiing.com, you gain full access to all site materials and live broadcasts of Ski Classics Pro Tour events with English commentary.
By joining one of the leading global communities of XC-ski enthusiasts, you’ll receive numerous exclusive offers throughout the year.
REGISTER HERE AS A PARTICIPANT
