Photo: Organisation XtremeLagos de Covadonga (opens in a new tab) / Source (opens in a new tab)Covadonga
XtremeLagos de Covadonga
Saturday, 8 May 2027
Your checklist for XtremeLagos de Covadonga
What you need, category by category, with our #1 pick for this race. Tick what you already have.
0 of 6 ready
Swipe to see all 7 categories
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GPS watch
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Garmin Instinct 3 AMOLED 45 mm
Onboard topo maps, unlike the Instinct 3 Solar
Downside: Shorter battery life than the Instinct 3 Solar (no solar charging or MIP display)
Gear
Shoes with good grip for wet rock and steep trail.
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Nike Ultrafly
ZoomX foam: exceptional energy return inherited from the Vaporfly
Downside: High price (190 EUR)
Nutrition
Work out your hourly intake: the marathon can exceed 8 hours.
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Maurten Gel 100
Hydrogel technology: excellent gastric tolerance
Downside: High price compared to other gels
Sun Protection
Sweat-resistant SPF50 cream, reapply at aid stations
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)ISDIN Fusion Water Sunscreen SPF 50+
Ultralight texture, feels invisible on skin
Downside: Small format (50 ml), may run short on ultras
Body Care
Anti-chafe balm on armpits, thighs and feet
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Julbo Aerospeed
Photochromic lenses: adapt from forest to summits
Downside: Higher price compared to non-photochromic glasses
Car Rental
Book in advance and check the mileage policy
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)DRIVALIA 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.
Race data
Terrain
Mountain
Difficulty
Elite
Distance
2 modalities
Maratón XtremeLagos 42K
- Distance
- 42 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 6000m
- Max Time
- -
TrailXtreme 14K
- Distance
- 14 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 2000m
- Max Time
- -
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | Max Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maratón XtremeLagos 42K | 42 km | D+ 6000m | - |
| TrailXtreme 14K | 14 km | D+ 2000m | - |
Will your watch battery last the ~20 h of XtremeLagos de Covadonga?Worked out for the longest course (42 km). See which watches reach the finish with GPS on and which die on the way.Check my watch Check my watchGear up for XtremeLagos de Covadonga
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 15 °C: guide and kit →
Typical weather for the race date (10-year average)
Temperature
10°C – 19°C
Average 14°C
Rain
30%
2.3 mm avg
Wind
12 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
12h
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
Ultralight Gore-Tex Shakedry waterproof jacket (110 g). Full waterproofing without an inner membrane, highly breathable. The benchmark for mountain runners.
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
Ultralight waterproof windproof jacket (135 g). Taped seams, adjustable hood and back ventilation. Packs into its own pocket.
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.
Shokz
Shokz OpenRun
Open-ear bone conduction headphones with IP67 rating: they take rain, mud and a rinse under the tap. Up to 8 h of battery and quick charge (10 min for 1.5 h). The most rugged pick of the range for training in bad weather.
TRIWONDER
TRIWONDER Waterproof Trail Gaiters
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 10°C)
Buff
Buff Thermonet
Thermal tubular Buff with Primaloft technology. Traps body heat, ultralight and versatile: hat, neck gaiter, headband. Ideal for high mountain.
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 Thermal Neck Gaiter
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
Long-sleeve thermal base layer made from recycled fabric with anti-odour treatment. Active thermal regulation, ideal as a base layer in the mountains.
Odlo
Odlo I-Thermic Women's Longsleeve
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 Thermal Windproof Balaclava
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
Long trail tights with stretchy, breathable fabric. Adjustable waist, zipped back pocket. Protection from cold and vegetation.
Salomon
Salomon Cross Warm Glove
Thermal running gloves with a non-slip palm and touchscreen fingertips. Light, warm and compatible with poles.
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 (Men's)
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 8 May
Weather forecast from Open-Meteo (may change until race day)
The race
The XtremeLagos de Covadonga is one of the most demanding mountain races in Asturias. It is organised by the Grupo de Montaña Peña Santa in collaboration with Cangas de Onís Town Council and runs through the Cangas de Onís municipality and Picos de Europa National Park. The 19th edition is announced for 8 May 2027.
The route
The marathon starts at 8:00 from El Repelao in Covadonga and crosses areas such as Priena, Cañavalles, La Tiese, Pozabal, Següenco and Nieda before dropping to Cangas de Onís. It is 42 km with over 6,000 m of positive elevation, with a checkpoint in Covadonga to be passed within 6 h 15 min and a 10-hour finish cut-off. The TrailXtreme starts at 10:00 from Plaza de La Estrella in Cangas de Onís: 14 km with 2,000 m D+ and a checkpoint at the Següencu repeater with a 2 h 30 min cut-off.
When to go and what to expect
In early May the weather in Picos de Europa changes from one valley to the next: sun in Cangas, fog and cold at altitude. Always carry a waterproof windproof layer and check the mandatory gear in the rules.
How to prepare
Train elevation, not just kilometres: with this much slope, poles and strength work make the difference. On the descent to Cangas, save your quads.
See more races in the region or add this one to your season planner.
360Complete Pack
Registration
RegistrationRegistration is handled through the official website. Without a federation licence you pay a €3 insurance fee at bib pickup.
Tips
- •Read the rules: there are intermediate checkpoints with cut-off times.
- •A 50% refund after an injury requires notifying the organisers before 30 April.
Where to stay for XLC
AccommodationBook accommodation near the start in advance: the race weekend fills the area.
Tips
- •Look for accommodation within 30 min of the start
- •Book months ahead if the race falls on a holiday weekend or in summer
Gear
GearOver 6,000 m of climbing in 42 km demands reliable gear for steep terrain and changeable Picos de Europa weather.
Tips
- •Shoes with good grip for wet rock and steep trail.
- •Folding poles and a vest with a light waterproof layer.
Which shoes for XtremeLagos de Covadonga?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for XtremeLagos de Covadonga?
Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time
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Nutrition
NutritionWith few aid stations (km 25 at Covadonga and the finish), carry your own gels and solid food.
Tips
- •Work out your hourly intake: the marathon can exceed 8 hours.
- •Carry salts or electrolytes and a second flask for the long sections.
Transport
TransportCangas de Onís and Covadonga are an hour from Oviedo and Gijón. A car is the most convenient option.
Tips
- •Asturias airport is about 1 h 30 away by road.
- •Book a rental car early: the race falls in the busy tourist season.
Car rental for XLC
Car RentalA car makes it easier to reach the start and get around before and after the race.
Tips
- •Book in advance and check the mileage policy
- •Useful if your accommodation is far from the start
Sports insurance for XLC
InsuranceCover your participation with insurance that includes medical assistance and mountain rescue.
Tips
- •Check that it covers the race format and elevation gain
- •Review rescue cover if the race is in the mountains
Sun protection for XLC
Sun ProtectionSun exposure takes its toll on long races, especially on exposed sections and at midday.
Tips
- •Sweat-resistant SPF50 cream, reapply at aid stations
- •Protect lips, ears and neck
Best Sunscreen for Runners 2026: 7 Sweat-Proof SPF 50 Picks
Which sunscreen survives a sweaty long run? We compared 7 SPF 50 sweat-proof picks — creams, sticks and a lip balm — on heat, altitude UV and sweat resistance. See the winner.
Body care for XLC
Body CareKilometres and descents punish feet and skin: anti-chafe balm and blister patches prevent DNFs.
Tips
- •Anti-chafe balm on armpits, thighs and feet
- •Blister patches in your pocket
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the XtremeLagos de Covadonga?
- The 19th edition is announced for Saturday 8 May 2027. The marathon starts at 8:00 from El Repelao (Covadonga) and the TrailXtreme at 10:00 from Cangas de Onís.
- What distances and elevation does it have?
- The marathon covers 42 km with over 6,000 m of positive elevation and the TrailXtreme 14 km with 2,000 m D+. There is also a kids' race, the PequeXtreme.
- Who organises the XtremeLagos?
- The Grupo de Montaña Peña Santa, in collaboration with Cangas de Onís Town Council. It runs through the Cangas de Onís municipality and Picos de Europa National Park.
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