Alcalá del Valle
XI Carrera del Espárrago 51
Saturday, 10 April 2027estimated date
Trail 21K
21km D+ 0m
XI Carrera del Espárrago 51 2027: estimated date 10 April 2027
The organiser has not published the official 2027 schedule yet. The estimated date is based on last year's edition; we'll confirm it as soon as it's announced. Start sorting your gear and logistics.
Race data
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | Max Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trail 21K | 21 km | D+ 0m | - | 15 EUR |
Gear up for XI Carrera del Espárrago 51
Buying guides with the best value for money, picked for this kind of terrain.
What you need
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Gourmet Latino
Bocadillo de Guayaba Gourmet Latino
ISDIN
ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water SPF 50+
How long will it take you?
Estimate your race time based on distance, elevation and your runner level.
Historical weather
Typical weather for the race date (10-year average)
Temperature
9°C – 19°C
Average 14°C
Rain
30%
2.1 mm avg
Wind
21 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
11h
daily average
Gear recommendations
Bring a waterproof jacket (30% chance of rain)
Asics
Asics Gel-Trabuco 14 GTX
A best-selling beginner trail shoe: GEL cushioning, good stability and a waterproof GORE-TEX membrane. Versatile and reliable for training on mixed terrain in any weather.
Berghaus
Berghaus Paclite 2.0 GTX
Waterproof jacket with a Gore-Tex Paclite membrane (around 330 g). Fully waterproof with taped seams, fixed adjustable hood, storm flap behind the zip and cuff adjustment. Packs down small in a vest. Heavier than a pure running hardshell, but it meets the waterproof-breathable membrane requirement in race rules and is the affordable route into Gore-Tex.
Gore Wear
Gore Wear C5 GORE-TEX Glove
Glove with a fully waterproof, windproof GORE-TEX membrane and light insulation. The pick for running in snow, sleet or heavy rain while keeping your hand dry.
Gore Wear
Gore Wear M GORE-TEX Thermo Glove
Warmer variant of the Gore Wear C5 GORE-TEX: the same fully waterproof, windproof membrane, with extra thermal lining for intense cold on top of snow or rain. The pick when the problem isn't just water, but water AND hard cold at once.
Gore Wear
Gore Wear R7 GTX Shakedry
Chubasquero Gore-Tex Shakedry ultraligero (110 g). Impermeabilidad total sin membrana interior, altamente transpirable. El referente para corredores de montaña.
Nike
Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GORE-TEX
The best-selling gateway trail shoe: comfortable, cushioned and versatile for moving from road to trail. Waterproof GORE-TEX version, perfect for beginners and easy runs on mixed terrain.
Salomon
Salomon Bonatti Pro Waterproof Glove
Lightweight waterproof glove built for running, not just standing still in the snow: a waterproof membrane with more dexterity and less bulk than a thick membrane glove, for sustained rain without giving up handling gels or poles.
Salomon
Salomon Bonatti WP
Chaqueta cortavientos impermeable ultraligera (135 g). Costuras selladas, capucha ajustable y ventilación trasera. Se pliega en su propio bolsillo.
Sealskinz
Sealskinz Waterproof Lightweight Glove
Lightweight waterproof glove from a brand that specializes in outdoor sport waterproofing. A solid middle ground between a thin windproof glove and a thick membrane glove: genuinely waterproof without the bulk or price of the Gore C5.
TRIWONDER
TRIWONDER Polainas Impermeables Trail
Waterproof, breathable low gaiters for trail running, hiking and mountain use. Under-shoe strap and adjustable elastic band. A budget-friendly alternative to premium technical brand gaiters.
Bring thermal layers (low of 9°C)
Buff
Buff Thermonet
Buff tubular térmico con tecnología Primaloft. Retiene el calor corporal, ultraligero y polivalente: gorro, braga, cinta. Ideal para alta montaña.
Craft
Craft Pro Hypervent LS Wind Top
Thermal top with a windproof ripstop panel on the chest and a highly ventilated soft jersey back. Built for high-intensity sessions in cold, windy conditions, with long cuffs and thumb loops.
HANKER
HANKER Braga de Cuello Térmica
Unisex thermal seamless neck gaiter in Soft Air Plus fabric (97% polyester). Seamless fit designed for trail running, cycling, motorcycling and outdoor sports. A budget alternative to Buff for moderate cold.
Icebreaker
Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis LS Crewe
Long-sleeve thermal top in 100% merino wool (200g). Natural temperature regulation, genuine multi-day odor resistance and a soft, non-itch handfeel from the fine merino yarn.
Odlo
Odlo Active Warm Eco
Camiseta térmica de manga larga con tejido reciclado y tratamiento antiolor. Regulación térmica activa, ideal como capa base en montaña.
Odlo
Odlo I-Thermic Longsleeve Mujer
Women's long-sleeve thermal top with insulating panels placed over cold-sensitive areas (lower back and kidneys). A mid-layer built for genuinely cold winter conditions, mountain outings or cross-country-style trail sessions.
Salomon
Salomon Agile LS Tee
Lightweight quick-dry polyester long-sleeve tee with underarm mesh, a side pocket and reflective details. Works as a standalone layer in mild cold or as a base layer under a windbreaker on colder days.
Salomon
Salomon Cross Run Tight
Mallas largas de trail con tejido elástico y transpirable. Cintura ajustable, bolsillo trasero con cremallera. Protección contra el frío y la vegetación.
Salomon
Salomon Cross Warm Glove
Guantes térmicos de running con palma antideslizante y puntas táctiles. Ligeros, cálidos y compatibles con bastones.
Under Armour
Under Armour ColdGear Armour Compression Mock
Compression thermal top with a dual-layer fabric: ultra-warm brushed interior and quick-dry exterior. Second-skin compression fit with stretch mesh panels at the back and underarms for ventilation without losing warmth.
Forecast for 10 April
Real-time data from Open-Meteo
Carrera del Espárrago 51
The Carrera del Espárrago 51 is a sporting event held in Alcalá del Valle, in the heart of the Sierra de Cádiz. Now in its eleventh edition, the race merges the traditional Carrera del Espárrago with the KM51 Homenaje Cientouner@, a tribute to the historic 101 km race that inspired the event.
Each year it draws around 600 participants across three disciplines: trail running, MTB and hiking. The trail race covers 21 km of mountain terrain through the trails and paths of the Sierra de Cádiz.
The course
The 21 km trail runs through the landscapes of the Sierra de Cádiz:
- Sierra de Cádiz — Mountain trails through holm oaks and olive groves
- White villages — The surroundings of Alcalá del Valle, gateway to the White Villages Route
- Varied terrain — Mountain paths with technical sections and forest tracks
Registration and prices
Registration is through DorsalChip with three pricing phases:
- First phase (8 Dec – 17 Feb): €15 with shirt
- Second phase (18 Feb – 17 Mar): €20 with shirt
- Third phase (from 20 Mar): €15 without shirt
Registration closes on April 1, 2026. The first 100 trail and MTB entrants are entered into a Garmin watch raffle.
Entry includes bib, timing, free photos, runner’s bag, aid stations and medical assistance.
Alcalá del Valle and the Sierra de Cádiz
Alcalá del Valle is a white village in Cádiz province, situated between Ronda and Olvera at the gateway to the White Villages Route. The area offers mountain landscapes, olive groves and hearty sierra cuisine with asparagus as the star ingredient.
Take the opportunity to discover Ronda (30 min away), Olvera with its castle and greenway, and the rest of the white villages in one of Andalucía’s most authentic regions.
360Complete Pack
Registration for Carrera del Espárrago 51
RegistrationRegistration is through DorsalChip with three pricing phases. Entry includes bib, timing, photos, runner's bag and aid stations.
Browse all registrationTips
- •Registration through DorsalChip
- •First phase (Dec–Feb): €15 with shirt
- •Second phase (Feb–Mar): €20 with shirt
- •Third phase (from Mar 20): €15 without shirt
- •Registration deadline: April 1, 2026
- •First 100 trail and MTB entrants enter a Garmin watch raffle
Where to stay in Alcalá del Valle
AccommodationAlcalá del Valle is a Sierra de Cádiz village with rural accommodation options. Ronda and Olvera, a short drive away, offer more choices.
Browse all accommodationTips
- •Alcalá del Valle has rural guesthouses and charming accommodation
- •Ronda (30 min) offers a wide range of hotels
- •Olvera (20 min) is another nearby option with accommodation
- •Book ahead if you want to stay in the village
Recommended gear for Carrera del Espárrago 51
Gear21 km mountain trail in the Sierra de Cádiz. April brings pleasant temperatures but the mountain terrain requires good footwear.
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Salomon's most versatile trail shoe, ideal for technical terrain and mud. Exceptional grip with Contagrip sole and EnergyCell+ cushioning.
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.
New Balance
New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9
The model breaking into Spain's best-seller charts. Fresh Foam X midsole with a solid balance between cushioning and ground feel, a Vibram Megagrip outsole, and a comfortable last suited to wide feet. A reliable all-rounder for training runs and mountain races of any distance.
Saucony
Saucony Peregrine 16
The all-round trail shoe par excellence, with excellent reviews across every type of runner. PWRTRAC outsole with 5 mm lugs for grip on mixed and technical terrain, balanced PWRRUN cushioning, and rock-plate protection depending on the version. The perfect middle ground between responsiveness and protection.
Freet
Freet Feldom 3
100% barefoot trail shoe with zero drop, minimal stack (6 mm sole) and anatomical last that respects the natural width of the foot. No midsole cushioning: maximum proprioception and ground feedback. Multi-directional lugs for dirt trails and paths. Designed for runners already adapted to minimalist footwear or those transitioning gradually from cushioned natural footwear.
Garmin
Garmin Forerunner 965
Premium running watch with a 1.4" AMOLED display, onboard topo maps, multi-band GPS and music. Up to 31 h in GPS mode (19 h multi-band) and 23 days in smartwatch mode, at just 53 g. Garmin's top running watch without the bulk of a Fenix: ideal for marathons and single-day ultras with accurate navigation.
Tips
- •Trail shoes with good grip for mountain terrain
- •Hydration vest with at least 1L capacity
- •Light windbreaker in case it gets cool at higher elevations
- •Cap or visor: April in Cádiz can be sunny
Which shoes for XI Carrera del Espárrago 51?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for XI Carrera del Espárrago 51?
Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time
Best Trail Running Hydration Vests 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
In-depth comparison of the best hydration vests and packs for trail running in 2026: Salomon ADV Skin 12 Set, Salomon Active Skin 8, CamelBak Octane, Compressport UltRun Vest, NNormal Race Vest, AONIJIE 10L and HANKER waist belt. Soft flasks vs reservoir, how many litres by distance, how to stop the vest bouncing and how much water to carry.
Best Value Trail and Mountain GPS Watches 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
The best value-for-money trail and mountain GPS watches in 2026: Coros Pace 3, Amazfit T-Rex 3 and Cheetah Pro, Garmin Forerunner 165 and Suunto Race 2. How much a good trail watch costs, which ones have cheap offline maps, whether an Amazfit performs like a Garmin and which watch to buy for your budget. Figures verified against the manufacturer.
The 6 Best Trail Running Socks 2026
Compare the 6 best trail running socks in 2026: Compressport Pro Racing V3.0 Trail, Injinji Trail Midweight Crew, OrrinSports toe socks, Lurbel Desafío Four, Icebreaker Merino Hike+ and Compressport Full Socks Recovery. Toe socks vs regular, merino vs synthetic, and how to avoid blisters.
Nutrition for Carrera del Espárrago 51
NutritionThe organization provides liquid and solid aid stations along the course.
Gourmet Latino
Bocadillo de Guayaba Gourmet Latino
Natural guava bar in individual 26 g format. High in vitamin C and fast-absorbing carbohydrates. Solid texture with easy-open wrapper, perfect for carrying during races. Intense sweet flavor that delivers immediate energy without needing water.
Maurten
Maurten Gel 100
Gel de hidrogel con 25g de carbohidratos. La tecnología de hidrogel encapsula los carbohidratos para una absorción sin molestias gástricas. Sabor neutro, sin edulcorantes artificiales. Usado por corredores de élite en maratón y ultra.
Crown Sport Nutrition
Crown Sport Nutrition 3:1 Recovery+
Recuperador muscular a base de proteína de suero aislada (whey isolate) con ratio carbohidratos-proteína 3:1, enriquecido con L-Leucina y L-Glutamina. Certificado Informed Sport y sin alérgenos añadidos. Formato de 750 g, sabor sandía.
GU
GU Energy Gel Original
Gel energético con 100 calorías y 21g de carbohidratos por sobre. Mezcla de maltodextrina y fructosa para absorción óptima. Incluye aminoácidos y electrolitos. El gel más usado en ultratrails de todo el mundo.
226ERS
226ERS Isotonic Drink
Bebida isotónica en polvo de la marca española 226ERS. Aporta carbohidratos, electrolitos y minerales para mantener la hidratación durante el ejercicio. Fórmula con amilopectina para absorción rápida sin molestias digestivas.
Victory Endurance
Victory Endurance Total Recovery
Preparado en polvo para bebida de recuperación post-entreno con carbohidratos, electrolitos y proteína en ratio BCAA 2:1:1. Incluye 12 vitaminas y 9 minerales para acelerar la recuperación muscular tras un trail largo. Formato de 1250 g, sabor sandía.
226ERS
226ERS Recovery Drink
Muscle recovery shake from Spanish brand 226ERS. Formula with whey protein, amylopectin, amino acids (including glutamine and BCAAs) and minerals. Carb-to-protein ratio optimised for the post-exercise window. Good taste and digestive tolerance.
226ERS
226ERS Sub9 Pro Salts Electrolytes
The caffeinated version of Sub9 Salts: 250 mg of sodium and 40 mg of caffeine per capsule, plus potassium, magnesium and ginger. Made for the final stretch of an ultra, when you need to replace salts and get a lift without opening another caffeine gel.
Tips
- •Aid stations with water and food along the course
- •Carry extra gels or bars as backup
- •Have breakfast at least 2 hours before the start
How to get to Alcalá del Valle
TransportAlcalá del Valle is in the Sierra de Cádiz, well connected by road from Ronda and the coast.
Browse all transportTips
- •From Ronda: 30 min via the A-384
- •Málaga Airport (AGP): 1h 30min
- •Jerez Airport (XRY): 1h 30min
- •From Seville: 2h via A-92 and A-384
Car rental in Sierra de Cádiz
Car RentalA car is essential to reach Alcalá del Valle. Pick up at Málaga or Jerez airport.
DRIVALIA
DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud Country Plus
SUV/crossover vehicle rental subscription, ideal for reaching mountain races via rural roads and forest tracks.
DRIVALIA
DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud City
Urban vehicle rental subscription, perfect for getting to races with good highway and conventional road access.
Carla
Carla Car Rental - Reserva ahora, paga después
Car rental comparison in over 180 countries with free cancellation. Book now and pay when you pick up the vehicle, no hidden fees or upfront card charges.
Hertz
Hertz - Alquiler de coches
Car rental with one of the world's most recognised brands, with offices at airports and cities across Spain.
Tips
- •Pick up your car at Málaga or Jerez airport
- •Take the chance to visit Ronda, Olvera and the white villages of the sierra
Sports insurance for Carrera del Espárrago 51
InsuranceThe race includes medical assistance provided by the organization.
Browse all insuranceTips
- •Federated runners (FADMES) already have sports insurance
- •Check with the organization about insurance options for non-federated runners
Sun protection for Carrera del Espárrago 51
Sun ProtectionIn April UV radiation in Cádiz is already significant. Protect yourself on exposed sections.
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.
Cantabria Labs
Heliocare 360º Sport Transparent Stick SPF 50+
Transparent SPF 50+ sun stick, 25 g, with 360º protection (UVA, UVB, visible light and infrared). Goes on dry in seconds over face, ears, neck and bald scalp with no sticky hands and no white cast: the format built for reapplying at an aid station. High water and sweat resistance, from a Spanish pharmacy brand.
Columbia
Columbia Schooner Bank II Cachalot
Legionnaire-style cap with neck flap, ideal for long-duration races with intense sun exposure. Covers the neck and ears, two of the areas most prone to sunburn in the mountains.
Julbo
Julbo Aero
Sports sunglasses with a Reactiv photochromic lens that automatically adapts to changing light, an ultralight panoramic frame and the Air Link temple system for a secure, pressure-free fit. Built for high-mountain trail running, where light shifts constantly between forest, rock and open summits.
Sun Bum
Sun Bum Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 30
Lip balm with SPF 30 sun protection in stick format. Moisturises and protects lips from sunburn, a spot many runners forget. Coconut flavour, paraben-free.
Buff
Buff Venture Gorra 5 Panel
Lightweight 5-panel cap with UPF 50+ protection, breathable fabric and comfortable fit. Ideal for summer trail running races where weight and ventilation are a priority.
d'Alba
d'Alba Air Fit Fresh Stick SPF 50+ PA++++
Facial SPF 50+ PA++++ sun stick, 19 g, Korean skincare, vegan and fragrance-free. Dry, powdery finish, not sticky, doesn't sting the eyes when you sweat: comfortable for daily training and shorter races. The lightest and cheapest option in the comparison.
Piz Buin
Piz Buin Mountain SPF 50+
Mountain sunscreen with SPF 50+ formulated for extreme altitude conditions. Extra protection against intensified UV radiation and cold wind. Rich texture that protects skin from dehydration.
Tips
- •Apply sunscreen before the start
- •April in the Sierra de Cádiz can be very sunny
Body care for Carrera del Espárrago 51
Body CareSunglasses and protection for exposed sections of the mountain course.
Buff
Buff CoolNet UV+
Multifunctional tubular with UPF 50+ UV protection and cooling technology. Can be worn as neck gaiter, headband, balaclava or wristband. CoolNet fabric reflects UV rays and cools the skin by evaporation.
Julbo
Julbo Aerospeed
Sport sunglasses with Reactiv photochromic lenses that automatically adapt to light conditions (category 1 to 3). Designed for trail running with non-slip temples and integrated ventilation.
OOFOS
OOFOS OOriginal Sport
Unisex recovery sandal with patented OOfoam technology, which absorbs 37% more impact than conventional EVA foam and reduces stress on feet, ankles and back after exertion. Closed thong-style toe post with built-in arch support in the footbed. Machine washable.
Therabody
Theragun Mini (2.ª generación)
Compact massage gun with QuietForce motor and 3 speeds (1750-2400 percussions/min). Weighs just 500g and fits in your race vest or bag. Ideal for self-massage of quads, calves and glutes after a trail.
Compex
Compex Ayre Recovery Boots
Pneumatic pressotherapy boots with 4 sequential air chambers. Dynamic compression that improves venous return and speeds up toxin elimination after mountain races. 3 pressure levels and 20-30 minute sessions. Built-in rechargeable battery.
Salomon
Salomon Mangas Running
Lightweight, breathable and absorbent running sleeves from Salomon, with a comfortable adaptable fit for variable mountain temperature conditions.
Salomon
Salomon Polaina Cuello Merino
Salomon merino wool neck gaiter. Natural warmth, breathable and odour-resistant even after several uses without washing, key for multi-day ultras. Versatile use in the mountains and premium trail running.
Bob and Brad
Bob and Brad Q2 Mini
Mini massage gun designed by two physiotherapists: 430 g, brushless motor with 15 kg stall force and operation under 45 dB. Charges over USB-C from any charger and ships with a case. The value pick for packing recovery into your bag or car boot.
Tips
- •Sunglasses for open sections
- •Vaseline on friction areas to prevent chafing
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the Carrera del Espárrago 51 in 2026?
- April 11, 2026. The children's race Esparraguin takes place on Friday April 10.
- What distance is the trail race?
- The trail running event is 21 km through mountain terrain. There are also MTB and hiking categories.
- How much does registration cost?
- Between €15 and €20 depending on the registration phase. First phase (December–February) costs €15, second phase (February–March) €20, and third phase (from March 20) €15 without shirt.
- How do I get to Alcalá del Valle?
- Alcalá del Valle is in the Sierra de Cádiz. Access via the A-384 from Ronda (30 min) or from Olvera. The nearest airports are Málaga (1h 30min) and Jerez (1h 30min).
- Where do I register?
- Registration is through DorsalChip. The deadline is April 1, 2026 at 11:00 PM.
Races similar to XI Carrera del Espárrago 51
View all similar races →
CxM Villa de Casares
Casares
21K y 14K por la Sierra Crestellina desde Casares (Málaga)
VIII Trail El Calvario del Dragón
Osuna
23K y 12K por los arroyos y pinares de Osuna, final de la Copa Sevilla de Carreras por Montaña
CxM Alfarnat Trail
Alfarnate
23K y 14K por la montaña de la Axarquía malagueña desde Alfarnate