Trail races in Cantabria — September 2026
Cantabria shares the Picos de Europa with Asturias and Leon, and also offers trail routes along the Cantabrian coast and interior valleys. The Travesera de los Picos de Europa is one of Spain's most demanding ultras.
2 races scheduled
Climate in Cantabria: Cantabria has Atlantic oceanic climate, meaning frequent rain, high humidity, and mild temperatures year-round. The Picos de Europa run best from June to September, when snow has receded and passes are open, though evening storms are common and require early starts. May and October are transition months: weather can be good, but you might also encounter late or early snowfall at altitude. Winter is harsh in the Picos, with abundant snow closing many trails, but interior valleys and coast allow year-round running with proper gear. That said, be ready to get wet: it rains more here than almost anywhere in Spain.
Race summary
2
Races
13 – 72 km
Distance range
500 – 5800 D+
Elevation range
Sep
Race months
Difficulty
Tips for running in Cantabria in september
September can bring sudden storms: always carry your windbreaker even if the sky looks clear.
The terrain starts to have fallen leaves hiding rocks and roots: increase focus on descents.
It is an ideal month for ultras: take advantage of the thermal conditions and remaining daylight hours.
Race map
Click a marker to view race details.
Scheduled races
Photo: Trail La GrajeraTrail La Grajera
Lantueno, Santiurde de Reinosa
Trail La Grajera — 21K con 1.400 m D+ entre hayedos y collados de Campoo, Cantabria
FeaturedPhoto: Ignacio Fernández Álvarez / UnsplashTravesera Picos de Europa
Potes
72K y 36K por los tres macizos de Picos de Europa, una de las ultras más duras de España
Essential gear + sun protection
Get ready to run in the heat: sun protection and key gear
Black Diamond
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z
Ultralight carbon Z-pole foldable trekking poles. 137 g per pole in 110 cm length, 33 cm folded. EVA grip and adjustable strap. The trail running reference.
Hoka
Hoka Speedgoat 7
The best-selling trail shoe in the US and an absolute ultra-trail classic. Max Hoka cushioning, a Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5 mm lugs for grip in mud and technical terrain, and a snug Matryx upper. Built to eat up kilometres without punishing your legs in long races.
Altra
Altra Lone Peak 9
Trail running shoe with zero drop and wide FootShape toe box that allows natural toe splay. 25 mm stack with EGO foam for balanced cushioning without losing ground contact. MaxTrac outsole with 3.5 mm lugs, ideal for non-technical trails, forest tracks and long-distance paths.
ISDIN
ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water SPF 50+
Ultralight water-phase facial sunscreen with SPF 50+. Fluid texture that absorbs instantly with no greasy residue, ideal for applying during a race. Water and sweat resistant.
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