After visiting Berlin parkrun for my birthday last year, this year we visited Stockholm in Sweden, which is home to Haga Parkrun.
Haga Parkrun is a part of the growing parkrun family in Sweden, nestled in the scenic surroundings of Stockholm.
This review will provide insights into the park, the course, and the overall experience of participating in this parkrun.
FINDING HAGAPARKEN
Haga Parkrun is conveniently located within Hagaparken, a beautiful green space just a short distance from Stockholm city centre.
Accessing the park is straightforward, whether you choose to walk, cycle, or use public transport. The nearest metro station is Odenplan.
The easiest way is to arrive by Uber or taxi, they are literally able to deliver you next to the start and finish line.
Upon arrival, you will notice the picturesque views of the park, which features historical buildings and lovely waterfronts.
You will know if your on the right track, you cant miss the usual parkrun signs in the field.
COURSE
The Haga Parkrun course is a scenic 5km route that primarily follows well-maintained paths.
The course is undulating and on a cold day it can be a proper lung buster. It is a mix of tarmac and gravel surfaces, with the opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the park as you run.
The route consists of two laps around the park, allowing you to experience the scenic atmosphere. While the course is generally easy to navigate, be prepared for a few twists and turns that keep it interesting.
The park's layout ensures that you are never far from the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
You can see my Strava activity HERE to see elevations and the course in detail.
TOILETS
I didn't need to go but I don't think there are any dedicated toilet facilities within the immediate vicinity of the start/finish area that I saw, so it's advisable to go before hand accordingly.
There are however several cafes nearby you can go to.
COFFEE
There are several cafés nearby where you can grab a post-run coffee and cake after the event.
From May-October, the official post-parkrun coffee is held at Haga Tennis Club, which is adjacent to the start and finish.
From November-April the official post-parkrun coffee is held at Espresso House at Karlbergsvägen 10, which is directly adjacent to Odenplan station.
I did not stay for coffee as we were booked on a free walking tour in Stockholm (which I would highly recommend doing) and wanted to get back to take advantage of the hotel breakfast before heading out on our tour.
COST
The cost of Parkrun is FREE. You just need to register and take your barcode to register your time.
RESULTS
You can find the latest results for Haga Parkrun HERE
WOULD I DO IT AGAIN?
Yes definitely, it is a tough course especially on a cold winter day, but it has beautiful scenery in the forest.
Stockholm is a beautiful city with a lot of history and culture that is well worth a visit.
THINGS TO BEAR IN MIND
- Weather: Stockholm's weather can be unpredictable, so take clothes for all conditions. It was a glorious cold sunny day when I visited but the previous week was snow.
- Timing: Unlike parkruns in the UK, Stockholm Parkrun starts at 9:30AM every Saturday, so enjoy your 30 minute lie in!
- Parking: If driving, be mindful of parking, as spaces are limited.
- Language: There were plenty of english speaking tourists and volunteers. The introduction was done in a mix of English and Swedish.
- Trainers: The paths are adequate for super shoe footwear. However, during colder months, icy patches or snow may be present and you might be better off with trail shoes.
- Cost: Everyone I spoke to before visiting said how expensive Sweden is. In my opinion, I found it to be no more expensive than being in any other city in the world.
KIT
I wore the following race day kit:
Top: Saysky Logo Pace Long Sleeve T-Shirt
Tights: Soar Running Fast Cargo Tights
Compression Socks: SHYU Running Socks
Trainers: Saucony Endorphin Pro 3
Watch: Coros Pace 2
Headphones: Aftershokz Aeropex Headphones
QUESTIONS
If you have any questions you would like to ask about the Haga Parkrun in Stockholm, please ask below in the comments.
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