Casares
CxM Villa de Casares
Saturday, 3 April 2027estimated date
CxM Villa de Casares 2027: estimated date 3 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+ 1094m | - | - |
| Hiking Route 14K | 14 km | D+ 745m | - | - |
Gear up for CxM Villa de Casares
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
10°C – 18°C
Average 14°C
Rain
27%
3.1 mm avg
Wind
20 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
10h
daily average
Forecast for 3 April
Real-time data from Open-Meteo
CxM Villa de Casares
The CxM Villa de Casares is a mountain race through the trails of Sierra Crestellina and its surroundings, starting and finishing in Casares, one of the most spectacular white villages in Malaga province. In 2026 it celebrates its ninth edition.
Casares, perched on a hilltop and crowned by its 13th-century Arab castle, is the starting point for a course that crosses pine forests, cork oak groves, streams, and limestone ridges through the Sierra Crestellina Natural Area and Monte del Duque.
The course
The CxM Villa de Casares offers two main categories:
- Trail 21K — 1,094m D+. A competitive, demanding course through Sierra Crestellina, with steep climbs, stream crossings, and a technical descent back to the village square. Cut-off time: 5 hours.
- Hiking Route 14K — A non-competitive option to enjoy the landscape at a more relaxed pace.
The terrain combines mountain trails, forest tracks, and technical sections along the sierra’s limestone ridges. The race starts with a sharp climb from the village square, and the final stretch descends from the castle back to the center of Casares.
Casares and Sierra Crestellina
Casares is famous for its white silhouette crowned by the ruins of a 13th-century Arab castle. The village, birthplace of the Roman physician Julius Casarius, blends history, gastronomy, and landscapes stretching from the mountains to the coastal beaches.
Sierra Crestellina is a protected Natural Area known for its limestone formations and biodiversity. The course also passes through Monte del Duque, an extensive cork oak forest that’s one of the best-preserved woodlands in the area.
Part of the race proceeds go to Asociacion Botika, which provides socio-health assistance and therapies for people with neurodegenerative diseases.
360Complete Pack
CxM Villa de Casares 2026 Registration
RegistrationRegistration is through DorsalChip. Limited to 400 runners across all categories — Trail 21K, Hiking Route 14K, and Pequetrail. Ninth edition organized by Casares Town Council and Club Sierra Bermeja Trail.
Browse all registrationTips
- •Registration through DorsalChip
- •400 spots total across all three categories
- •Part of the proceeds go to Asociacion Botika charity
Where to stay in Casares
AccommodationCasares is a charming white village, but hotel options are limited. The nearby coast (Estepona, Manilva, Sabinillas) offers many more accommodation choices.
Browse all accommodationTips
- •Casares village has rural houses and small charming accommodations
- •Estepona (30 min) has a wide range of coastal hotels
- •Manilva and Sabinillas (15 min) are closer and more affordable
- •Easter week: book early, it's peak season on the Costa del Sol
Recommended gear for the CxM Villa de Casares
GearTechnical mountain terrain through Sierra Crestellina: limestone ridges, pine forests, and cork oak groves. Concentrated elevation gain over 21K with steep climbs and slippery descents.
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: limestone terrain and slippery sections
- •Hydration vest with at least 1L for the 21K
- •Poles optional but useful for managing the 1,094m D+
- •Light windbreaker: the ridge sections can be windy
Which shoes for CxM Villa de Casares?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for CxM Villa de Casares?
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 the CxM Villa de Casares
NutritionAid stations along the course, but carry extra supplements for the demanding 21K.
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
- •Carry extra gels or bars between aid stations
- •Have breakfast at least 2 hours before the start
- •The steep climbs demand good calorie planning
How to get to Casares
TransportCasares is on Malaga's western coast, inland between Estepona and Manilva.
Browse all transportTips
- •Malaga airport (AGP) is 1h 30min via the AP-7
- •Gibraltar airport (GIB) is 45 min away
- •Estepona is 30 min by road
- •Mountain road with curves up to the village
Car rental in Malaga
Car RentalA car is essential to reach Casares, as public transport to the village is very limited.
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 the car at Malaga or Gibraltar airport
- •The road up to Casares village is a mountain road
- •Take the chance to explore the western Costa del Sol
Sports insurance for the CxM Villa de Casares
InsuranceCheck insurance requirements with the organization. FADMES-federated runners have sports coverage included.
Browse all insuranceTips
- •FADMES-federated runners already have sports insurance
- •If not federated, check with the organization for options
Sun protection for the CxM Villa de Casares
Sun ProtectionIn April, UV radiation is already noticeable in Malaga. Ridge and summit sections have high exposure.
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
- •The Sierra Crestellina ridges are highly exposed
Body care for the CxM Villa de Casares
Body CareExtra protection for a technical race with concentrated elevation gain.
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 the exposed ridge sections
- •Anti-chafe balm on friction zones, especially for the 21K
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the CxM Villa de Casares 2026?
- Saturday, April 4, 2026, in Casares (Malaga). It coincides with Easter week.
- What distances does the CxM Villa de Casares have?
- Two main distances: competitive Trail 21K (1,094m D+) and Hiking Route 14K. There's also a Pequetrail for younger runners.
- How many spots are available?
- 400 spots split across the three categories. Registration is through DorsalChip.
- How to get to Casares?
- Casares is on Malaga's western coast, 1h 30min from Malaga airport (AGP) and 45 minutes from Estepona via the AP-7. Gibraltar airport (GIB) is another nearby option.
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