Fuente Dé, Camaleño
KM Vertical Fuente Dé
Saturday, 5 June 2027estimated date
KM Vertical 2.6K
2.6km D+ 972m
Your checklist for KM Vertical Fuente Dé
What you need, category by category, with our #1 pick for this race. Tick what you already have.
0 of 6 ready
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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 aggressive grip and good traction on steep terrain
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Salomon Speedcross 6
Exceptional grip in mud and technical terrain
Downside: Average durability on pavement
Nutrition
A caffeine gel 15-20 minutes before the start
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
SPF 50 sunscreen on face, neck and arms
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
Vaseline on usual chafing areas
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)After Bite Xtra Gel
Immediate relief from processionary caterpillar irritation
Downside: Strong ammonia smell
Car Rental
Mountain roads with curves but well maintained
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
Advanced
Distance
1 modalities
KM Vertical 2.6K
Price: 25 EUR
- Distance
- 2.6 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 972m
- Max Time
- -
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | Max Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KM Vertical 2.6K | 2.6 km | D+ 972m | - | 25 EUR |
Will your watch battery last the ~3 h of KM Vertical Fuente Dé?Worked out for the longest course (2.6 km). See which watches reach the finish with GPS on and which die on the way.Check my watch Check my watchGear up for KM Vertical Fuente Dé
Buying guides with the best value for money, picked for this kind of terrain.
Swipe to see all 4 comparisons
Best Skyrunning Shoes 2026: 8 Models for Rock and High Mountain
See comparison
Best GPS Watches with Offline Maps 2026: Value Comparison
See comparison
Best Trail Running Poles 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
See comparison
Best Trail Running Hydration Vests 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
See comparison
Historical weather
What to wear at 10 °C: guide and kit →
Typical weather for the race date (10-year average)
Temperature
7°C – 14°C
Average 10°C
Rain
63%
4.8 mm avg
Wind
8 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
10h
daily average
Gear recommendations
Bring a waterproof jacket (63% 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 7°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 5 June
Weather forecast from Open-Meteo (may change until race day)
KM Vertical Fuente Dé
KM Vertical Fuente Dé is a vertical race that climbs 972 meters of elevation in just 2.6 kilometers. The XVI edition (2026) starts from the lower Fuente Dé Cable Car station in the heart of Picos de Europa National Park (Camaleño, Cantabria).
The Course
2.6 kilometers of pure climbing with 972 meters of elevation gain. The format is a time trial: runners start individually from 11:30 AM. The finish is at the top of the mountain, with privileged views over Picos de Europa.
The average gradient exceeds 37%, meaning each kilometer gains over 370 meters of altitude. There are no flat sections or descents: it’s continuous climbing from the first meter to the last.
Fuente Dé and the Cable Car
Fuente Dé is one of the most iconic locations in Picos de Europa. The Fuente Dé Cable Car covers a height difference of 753 meters in under 4 minutes, connecting the valley with the mountain passes. KM Vertical runners make that same ascent under their own power, racing against the mountain.
The Fuente Dé glacial cirque is a natural amphitheatre of vertical limestone walls that impresses anyone visiting for the first time. The race takes advantage of this spectacular setting to offer one of the most beautiful vertical races in Spain.
An Explosive Challenge
Unlike a long trail where pacing is key, a vertical kilometer is a test of pure power. The effort lasts between 30 and 60 minutes at maximum intensity. There are no aid stations and no time to think: it’s about climbing as fast as possible.
Trekking poles are allowed and highly recommended. On such steep gradients, poles save leg energy and improve traction. Shoe choice is critical: aggressive grip on steep mountain terrain is essential. Find the right footwear in our best trail running shoes for 2026 guide.
Use our pace calculator to plan your effort, and discover more races in Cantabria.
360Complete Pack
KM Vertical Fuente Dé 2026 Registration
RegistrationXVI edition of the KM Vertical in Picos de Europa. Time-trial format.
Tips
- •Until April 30: €25 (licensed) / €30 (non-affiliated)
- •From May 1: €28 / €35
- •Limited to 350 participants
- •Includes OS2O technical shirt (size guaranteed if registered before March 26)
Where to Stay for the KM Vertical Fuente Dé
AccommodationFuente Dé is deep in Picos de Europa. Potes is the most practical logistics base.
Tips
- •Potes is 25 km away: hotels, guesthouses and rural cottages
- •Parador de Fuente Dé right next to the cable car station
- •Liébana region with good rural tourism options
- •June is mid-season: book ahead but availability is generally good
Gear for the KM Vertical Fuente Dé
GearVertical race with 972m D+ in 2.6 km. Mountain terrain with very steep gradients.
Tips
- •Shoes with aggressive grip and good traction on steep terrain
- •Poles allowed and highly recommended for managing 972m D+
- •Minimal gear: this is a 30-60 minute race
- •Lightweight race kit: the intensity is maximum
Which shoes for KM Vertical Fuente Dé?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for KM Vertical Fuente Dé?
Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time
Best Skyrunning Shoes 2026: 8 Models for Rock and High Mountain
The 8 best skyrunning shoes in 2026: La Sportiva Bushido III and Prodigio Pro, NNormal Kjerag, Scarpa Ribelle Run 2, La Sportiva Mutant, Rossignol Vezor, Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed and Nike Ultrafly. Rock grip, weight, drop and which race each one suits.
Best Trail Running Poles 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
Best trail running poles 2026: Black Diamond, Leki and Komperdell compared. Carbon vs aluminium, folding length, technique and how to pick your size.
Best Trail Running Hydration Vests 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
Best trail running hydration vests 2026: 12 vests and packs compared. How many litres you need by distance, soft flasks vs reservoir, and fit.
Nutrition for the KM Vertical Fuente Dé
NutritionShort but explosive race. A 30-60 minute all-out effort.
Tips
- •A caffeine gel 15-20 minutes before the start
- •Too short to eat during the race
- •Good hydration in the hours beforehand
- •Light breakfast 2-3 hours before: the intensity is very high
Best salt tablets and sodium capsules for running 2026
A comparison of the 7 best salt tablets and sodium capsules for running and trail 2026: 226ERS Sub9 Salts, Crown Pro Salt Caps, Victory Endurance, Precision Hydration PH 1500 and more. How many salt tablets to take per hour, how to calculate your sweat rate and which format to choose.
How to Get to Fuente Dé
TransportFuente Dé is in the municipality of Camaleño, Liébana region (Cantabria).
Tips
- •Santander Airport (SDR) approximately 150 km away (2 hours)
- •Bilbao Airport (BIO) approximately 200 km away (2h 30min)
- •From Potes: 25 km via the CA-185 towards the cable car
- •The Desfiladero de La Hermida gorge is the main access to Liébana
Car Rental for Fuente Dé
Car RentalA car is essential to reach Fuente Dé. No direct public transport available.
Tips
- •Mountain roads with curves but well maintained
- •Parking available at the cable car station
- •Take the opportunity to visit Potes and the Desfiladero de La Hermida
Sports Insurance for the KM Vertical Fuente Dé
InsuranceVertical mountain race. Federation license or day insurance is mandatory.
Tips
- •FEDME license or day insurance is mandatory
- •Registration includes accident insurance for registered participants
- •Mountain rescue coverage recommended
Body Care for a Vertical Race
Body CareShort but explosive effort. Minimal but important preparation.
Tips
- •Vaseline on usual chafing areas
- •Technical socks that hold well on steep terrain
- •Tape on nipples if not wearing a compression shirt
Sun Protection for a High-Altitude Race
Sun ProtectionJune in Picos de Europa: intense sun above 1,500m altitude.
Tips
- •SPF 50 sunscreen on face, neck and arms
- •Lip balm with SPF is essential at altitude
- •UV radiation increases with altitude: don't underestimate the June sun
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the KM Vertical Fuente Dé 2026?
- The XVI edition takes place on Saturday, June 6, 2026. Start at 11:30 AM in time-trial format from the lower Fuente Dé Cable Car station.
- What is the distance and elevation gain?
- 2.6 km distance with 972 meters of elevation gain. It's a pure vertical race: continuous climbing from the cable car base station.
- How much does registration cost?
- Until April 30: €25 (FEDME licensed) or €30 (non-affiliated). From May 1: €28 and €35 respectively. Limited to 350 participants.
- Are trekking poles allowed?
- Yes, trekking poles are allowed and recommended for the climb.
- How do you get to Fuente Dé?
- Fuente Dé is in the municipality of Camaleño, Liébana region (Cantabria). It's about 25 km from Potes via the CA-185. Nearest airport: Santander (SDR), approximately 2 hours away.
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