Trail Las Palomas 2026 registration opens on
Save the date and get your gear ready in the meantime.
Race data
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | Max Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trail 23.5K | 23.5 km | D+ 1500m | 6h | - |
| Trail 39K | 39 km | D+ 2300m | 10h | - |
Trail Las Palomas requires mandatory gear: get it sorted early
Buying guides with the best value for money, picked for this kind of terrain.
Best Value Trail and Mountain GPS Watches 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
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Best Trail Running Poles 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
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Best Trail Running Hydration Vests 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
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Best Trail Running Headlamps 2026: Comparison & Buying Guide
See comparisonWhat you need
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Gore Wear
Gore Wear R7 GTX Shakedry
Maurten
Maurten Gel 100
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
8°C – 15°C
Average 11°C
Rain
37%
5.0 mm avg
Wind
15 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
6h
daily average
Gear recommendations
Bring a waterproof jacket (37% 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 8°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 12 December
Real-time data from Open-Meteo
Trail Las Palomas
Trail Las Palomas celebrates its fifteenth edition on December 12, 2026 in Zahara de la Sierra, one of the most photographed white villages in Cádiz, perched above the reservoir that shares its name. Organized by GCC Sport Events, the race has become a fixture on Andalucía’s mountain running calendar thanks to a route that combines limestone crags, holm oak forests, and views over the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park — one of the most technically demanding protected areas in all of Andalucía.
A route of crags and ridges
The race offers two distances suited to different profiles:
- 23.5K with 1,500 m of climb, a demanding but manageable morning format, ideal for a first taste of the Sierra de Grazalema.
- 39K with 2,300 m of climb, the flagship distance, stacking several technical limestone climbs and wind-exposed ridge sections.
Both routes start and finish in Zahara de la Sierra, so runners and their support crews can move around the village on foot before and after the race.
December in Grazalema: cold, wind, and fog
The Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park is the rainiest area in Spain, and December is no exception. The ridges crossed on the 39K are often wrapped in fog or hit by west winds, which makes a waterproof windbreaker essential — and calls for extra care on the terrain, since wet limestone gets noticeably more slippery than dry rock.
Zahara de la Sierra beyond the race
Beyond the trail itself, Zahara de la Sierra is worth a full weekend trip. The Moorish castle crowning the village offers one of the best panoramas of the Sierra de Grazalema and its reservoir, and the Pueblos Blancos route connects Zahara with Grazalema, Ubrique, and Arcos de la Frontera in just over an hour by car. If you’re traveling from outside Andalucía, plan the full trip with the season planner and discover other races in the region at Andalucía races.
Mandatory Gear
According to the official race regulations
360Complete Pack
Trail Las Palomas 2026 registration
RegistrationThe fifteenth edition, organized by GCC Sport Events, with 412 spots and start/finish in Zahara de la Sierra.
Browse all registrationTips
- •Register online through the GCC Sport Events website
- •€5 late fee applies from November 2, 2026
- •Registration closes December 4, 2026
- •You need a mountain federation license or day insurance
Where to stay for Trail Las Palomas
AccommodationZahara de la Sierra is a small white village; book ahead, especially in December.
Browse all accommodationTips
- •Rural houses in Zahara itself, with reservoir views
- •Grazalema and El Bosque, 20-30 minutes away, with more hotel options
- •Ronda as an alternative base, 45 minutes away
Gear for Trail Las Palomas
GearUp to 39 km and 2,300 m of climb over limestone crags in the Sierra de Grazalema. December in the natural park means cold and wind on the ridges.
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Salomon's most versatile trail shoe, ideal for technical terrain and mud. Exceptional grip with Contagrip sole and EnergyCell+ cushioning.
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.
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.
Tips
- •Shoes with strong grip: limestone gets slippery after rain
- •Waterproof windbreaker — the ridges of Grazalema catch strong wind
- •Poles recommended for the 39K given the cumulative climb
Which shoes for Trail Las Palomas?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for Trail Las Palomas?
Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time
Best Neck Gaiter (Buff) for Trail Running 2026: Comparison & Buying Guide
Comparison of the best neck gaiters for trail running in 2026: Buff Original, Midweight, Windproof, DryFlx, CoolNet UV+, Thermonet, HANKER and Salomon Merino. Which to pick based on sun, wind, cold or budget.
Best Thermal Base Layer for Trail Running 2026: Comparison & Buying Guide
The best thermal base layers for trail running in 2026: Odlo Active Warm Eco, Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis, Craft Pro Hypervent, Under Armour ColdGear, Salomon Agile LS Tee and Odlo I-Thermic. Which to pick based on cold, sweat management, merino wool, compression or built-in wind protection.
Best Trail Running Gaiters 2026: 3-Way Comparison
Comparing the 3 best trail running gaiters in 2026: Salomon Trail Gaiters High, Salomon Trail Gaiters Low and TRIWONDER waterproof gaiters. Which to pick by terrain and budget.
Nutrition for Trail Las Palomas
NutritionBetween 3 and 10 hours of effort depending on distance, with aid stations on course.
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.
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.
226ERS
226ERS Salts Electrolytes
Mineral salt capsules with 141 mg of sodium, plus potassium, magnesium, calcium and chloride. A gentle dose for moderate sweating or to top up gels and drinks that already contain sodium. Zero calories, gluten-free and vegan.
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.
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
- •50-70 g of carbs per hour on the 39K
- •Hydrate even in the cold — thirst is deceptive in winter
- •Solid breakfast 2-3 hours before the start
Getting to Zahara de la Sierra
TransportZahara de la Sierra sits at the heart of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, in Cádiz province.
Browse all transportTips
- •From Seville: 1h30 via A-376 and A-2302
- •From Cádiz: 1h30 via Arcos de la Frontera
- •Seville airport 1h30 away; Jerez 1h15 away
Car rental for the Sierra de Grazalema
Car RentalWith your own car, extend the weekend to the white villages of Grazalema, Ronda, and the Peñón Grande.
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.
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.
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.
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 Seville or Jerez airport
- •Parking is limited in Zahara — arrive early on race morning
Sports insurance for Trail Las Palomas
InsuranceA mountain race with technical sections inside the Grazalema Natural Park. Insurance is mandatory to take part.
Browse all insuranceTips
- •Valid FEDME/FAM license or day insurance required
- •Race entry includes accident insurance for the event
Body care for Trail Las Palomas
Body CareLimestone and scrambling sections — protect your feet and chafing zones before a long December race.
BodyGlide
BodyGlide Original Anti-Chafe Balm
Anti-chafe balm in stick format. Creates an invisible barrier on the skin that reduces friction without clogging pores. Sweat-resistant, ideal for critical zones like inner thighs, armpits, and nipples on long races.
Compressport
Compressport Full Socks Recovery
Full-length compression socks (foot to knee) designed specifically for post-exercise recovery. Graduated compression that improves venous return and reduces swelling. Breathable fabric with infrared fibres that improve microcirculation.
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.
Tips
- •Anti-chafe balm on feet and groin before the start
- •Compression socks for recovery after the 39K
Sun protection for Trail Las Palomas
Sun ProtectionEven in December, the exposed limestone ridges of Grazalema catch strong midday sun.
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.
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.
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.
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
- •SPF 50 on face and neck, especially on the 39K
- •Cap or buff for the low winter sun
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is Trail Las Palomas 2026?
- December 12, 2026, starting and finishing in Zahara de la Sierra (Cádiz).
- What distances does Trail Las Palomas offer?
- Two distances: 23.5 km with 1,500 m of climb and 39 km with 2,300 m of climb, both through the Sierra de Grazalema.
- Where do you register for Trail Las Palomas?
- Registration is handled through the GCC Sport Events website, the race organizer.
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