Photo: UTGVVG - Gran Vuelta Valle del Genal (opens in a new tab) / Source (opens in a new tab)Parauta, Málaga
Ultra Trail Gran Vuelta al Valle del Genal
Saturday, 14 November 2026
Race data
Terrain
Ultra Trail
Difficulty
Elite
Distance
3 modalities
Ultra 129K
- Distance
- 129 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 6300m
- Max Time
- 31h
100 Miler 167K
- Distance
- 167 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 7500m
- Max Time
- 40h
Trail Genal 53K
- Distance
- 53 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 3000m
- Max Time
- 12h
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | Max Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ultra 129K | 129 km | D+ 6300m | 31h | - |
| 100 Miler 167K | 167 km | D+ 7500m | 40h | - |
| Trail Genal 53K | 53 km | D+ 3000m | 12h | - |
Will your watch battery last the ~41 h of Ultra Trail Gran Vuelta al Valle del Genal?Worked out for the longest course (167 km). See which watches reach the finish with GPS on and which die on the way.Check my watch Check my watchYour checklist for Ultra Trail Gran Vuelta al Valle del Genal
What you need, category by category, with our #1 pick for this race. Tick what you already have.
0 of 6 ready
GPS watch
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Suunto Race 2
Bright 2,000-nit AMOLED display
Downside: No onboard music
Gear
A headlamp with good battery life is essential for the overnight hours
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
Hoka Speedgoat 7
Max Hoka cushioning: protects your legs over long distances
Downside: High stack: less stable for those who want more ground feel
Nutrition
A solid nutrition plan for efforts over 24 hours
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
Maurten Gel 100
Tecnología de hidrogel: excelente tolerancia gástrica
Downside: Precio elevado respecto a otros geles
Sun Protection
Reapply at every daytime aid station
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water SPF 50+
Ultralight texture, feels invisible on skin
Downside: Small format (50 ml), may run short on ultras
Body Care
Anti-chafe balm on feet from the start, not just when discomfort appears
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
BodyGlide Original Anti-Chafe Balm
Easy-to-apply stick format, even with sweaty hands
Downside: Higher price than traditional petroleum jelly
Car Rental
Choose a vehicle that handles mountain roads well
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud Country Plus
Trip logistics
Registration, travel and insurance: what you should have sorted before race day.
Affiliate links: if you buy, we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Seasonal kit
Ultra Trail Gran Vuelta al Valle del Genal runs into the night: low-light kit
Main and backup headlamp, battery, pre-dawn layers and night-time fuelling.
See the full kit : Night Trail Running Kit: What to Carry in Autumn and Winter Races With Short DaylightYou may also need: Rain and Mud Trail Running Kit 2026: What to Bring to a Wet Race · What to Wear for Cold-Weather Trail Running 2026: The Complete Layering Kit
Ultra Trail Gran Vuelta al Valle del Genal requires mandatory gear: get it sorted early
Buying guides with the best value for money, picked for this kind of terrain.
Swipe to see all 4 comparisons
Historical weather
What to wear at 10 °C: guide and kit →
Typical weather for the race date (10-year average)
Temperature
8°C – 16°C
Average 11°C
Rain
30%
3.3 mm avg
Wind
15 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
8h
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.
Brooks
Brooks Cascadia 20 GTX
The Cascadia 20 with a GORE-TEX membrane: stability and protection for rocky mountain terrain, keeping the foot dry on cold, rainy days.
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.
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX
The Speedcross 6 with a GORE-TEX membrane: the same aggressive 5 mm lugs for mud and soft ground, now waterproof for winter, rain and snow.
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.
ROCKBROS
ROCKBROS Pasamontañas Térmico y Cortaviento
Thermal windproof balaclava covering head, ears, cheeks and neck. Designed for cycling and motorcycling, it works just as well on windy, freezing trail runs.
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.
Under Armour
Under Armour ColdGear Armour Compression Mock Hombre
Men's high-neck thermal compression top: brushed interior that holds heat and a quick-dry outer. Base layer for cold-weather runs.
Forecast for 14 November
Weather forecast from Open-Meteo (may change until race day)
Ultra Trail Gran Vuelta al Valle del Genal
The Ultra Trail Gran Vuelta al Valle del Genal (UTGVVG) is one of the toughest races on the Andalusian ultra-distance calendar. Its course crosses 15 municipalities in the Serranía de Ronda, inland from Málaga, linking white villages, centuries-old chestnut groves, and cork oak forests along historic paths that for centuries connected these isolated communities.
The 2026 edition has its main start on November 14 in Parauta, while the Trail Genal 53K starts on November 7 from Benalauría.
Three levels of demand
- 167K 100 Miler — The flagship distance: 167 km and 7,500m of elevation gain, with a 40-hour time limit. It repeats the Ultra’s route with an additional initial loop through Salitre, 7 Pilas, and El Colmenar.
- Ultra 129K — 129 km and 6,300m D+, with a 31-hour time limit. The event’s reference race.
- Trail Genal 53K — 53 km and 3,000m D+, with a 12-hour time limit. The most accessible entry point, though still a tough mountain race.
A course through chestnut groves and white villages
The UTGVVG route combines technical mountain trails, forest tracks through cork oak groves, and cobbled stretches through the heart of villages like Igualeja, Júzcar, and Pujerra. Trail shoes with good grip are essential for the sierra’s mixed terrain, as is a quality headlamp for the long overnight hours required by both the Ultra and the 100 Miler.
The Serranía de Ronda beyond the race
The Valle del Genal is one of Andalusia’s least crowded regions, with chestnut-grove landscapes that turn spectacular autumn colors in November. Villages like Ronda, with its iconic bridge over the Tajo gorge, or Júzcar, known as “the smurf village,” are worth a calm visit before or after the effort. Plan your full stay in the region with our race planner.
Registration
Given the demands of the long distances, the organization recommends proven prior ultra-distance experience for the Ultra 129K and the 167K 100 Miler. Spots are limited and a waitlist is common, so register as early as possible on dorsalchip.es.
Mandatory Gear
According to the official race regulations
With spare batteries for the overnight hours
Survival blanket mandatory in your pack
Charged and with the organization's emergency numbers
Minimum 1.5L hydration capacity
360Complete Pack
UTGVVG 2026 Registration
RegistrationA highly demanding race with limited spots and a common waitlist across all three distances. The organization requires proven prior experience for the Ultra 129K and the 167K 100 Miler.
Tips
- •Register through dorsalchip.es
- •Prior ultra-distance experience is usually required for the Ultra and the 100 Miler
- •Book your bib early: waitlists are common
- •The Trail Genal 53K is the most accessible entry point to the event
Where to stay for the UTGVVG
AccommodationThe villages of the Valle del Genal have limited hotel capacity; book well in advance in Parauta, Ronda, or nearby municipalities close to the start.
Tips
- •Ronda is the base with the most hotel options in the area
- •The white villages of the valley (Parauta, Cartajima, Alpandeire) have limited rural lodging
- •Book months in advance: supply is limited
- •Consider staying near the finish to simplify post-race logistics
Gear for the UTGVVG
GearA mountain ultra with over 6,000m of elevation gain and overnight sections demands full technical gear: a powerful headlamp, poles, and warm clothing for the cold hours in the sierra.
Tips
- •A headlamp with good battery life is essential for the overnight hours
- •Folding poles are highly recommended given the elevation gain
- •Trail shoes with good grip for the sierra and chestnut-grove terrain
- •Warm clothing for the cold overnight hours in November
Which shoes for Ultra Trail Gran Vuelta al Valle del Genal?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for Ultra Trail Gran Vuelta al Valle del Genal?
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 the UTGVVG
NutritionWith time limits up to 40 hours on the 100 Miler, a solid nutrition and electrolyte strategy is decisive for reaching the finish.
Tips
- •A solid nutrition plan for efforts over 24 hours
- •Electrolyte tablets to prevent cramps over the long duration
- •Aid stations on course, but always carry your own reserve
- •Test your nutrition strategy on long training runs before the event
How to get to the Valle del Genal
TransportMálaga airport is the natural gateway to the region, though the final stretch to the valley's villages runs along mountain roads.
Tips
- •Málaga Airport (AGP): main entry point
- •From Málaga to Ronda, about 1 hour by car
- •From Ronda to the villages of the Valle del Genal, another 20 to 40 minutes
- •Public transport is insufficient: a car is recommended
Car rental in the Serranía de Ronda
Car RentalEssential for getting around the different municipalities of the Valle del Genal, both for race logistics and crew support.
Tips
- •Choose a vehicle that handles mountain roads well
- •Book in advance: rental supply in the region is limited
- •Also useful for crew support on the long distances
Sports insurance for the UTGVVG
InsuranceAn ultra of this level of demand requires sports accident insurance and, in many cases, a valid federation license.
Tips
- •A mountain federation license or day insurance is mandatory
- •A medical certificate or prior check-up is recommended given the demands
- •The organization provides medical assistance at key points on the course
Body care for the UTGVVG
Body CareBlisters and chafing are the main enemy over such a long effort; taking care of your feet from kilometer zero is key.
Tips
- •Anti-chafe balm on feet from the start, not just when discomfort appears
- •Quality technical socks and a sock change at longer aid stations
- •Compression socks for recovery after the race
Sun protection for the UTGVVG
Sun ProtectionDaytime hours in the Málaga sierra, especially on the more open sections of the course, mean intense sun exposure even in November.
Tips
- •Reapply at every daytime aid station
- •High-mountain-specific protection on the most exposed sections
- •A cap or buff for the midday hours
Frequently Asked Questions
- When does UTGVVG 2026 take place?
- The Ultra 129K and the 167K 100 Miler start on November 14, 2026, from Parauta. The Trail Genal 53K starts on November 7 from Benalauría.
- What distances does the Ultra Trail Gran Vuelta al Valle del Genal offer?
- Three races: the 167K 100 Miler (7,500m D+, 40h time limit), the Ultra 129K (6,300m D+, 31h), and the Trail Genal 53K (3,000m D+, 12h).
- Is this race suitable for beginners?
- No. The Ultra 129K and the 167K 100 Miler are extremely demanding races with heavy elevation gain and overnight sections. Prior ultra-distance experience is required. The Trail Genal 53K is more accessible but still a tough mountain race.
- What does the course cover?
- It crosses 15 villages in the Serranía de Ronda and the Valle del Genal, including Parauta, Benalauría, Igualeja, Júzcar, and Pujerra, through chestnut groves, cork oak forests, and white villages.
- How do you get to the Valle del Genal?
- The nearest airport is Málaga (AGP), just over an hour by car from the start area. A car is essential for getting around between the villages in the region.
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