Photo: Ignacio Fernández Álvarez (opens in a new tab) / Source (opens in a new tab)Potes
Travesera Picos de Europa
Saturday, 11 September 2027estimated date
Race data
Terrain
Mountain
Difficulty
Elite
Distance
2 modalities
Travesera 72K
Price: 110 EUR
- Distance
- 72 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 5800m
- Max Time
- 22h
- ITRA
- 5 pts
Machacona 36K
Price: 65 EUR
- Distance
- 36 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 2800m
- Max Time
- 11h
- ITRA
- 3 pts
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | ITRA | Max Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Travesera 72K | 72 km | D+ 5800m | 5 pts | 22h | 110 EUR |
| Machacona 36K | 36 km | D+ 2800m | 3 pts | 11h | 65 EUR |
Will your watch battery last the ~23 h of Travesera Picos de Europa?Worked out for the longest course (72 km). See which watches reach the finish with GPS on and which die on the way.Check my watch Check my watchYour checklist for Travesera Picos de Europa
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)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 maximum protection and grip on rock
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
Salomon Speedcross 6
Agarre excepcional en barro y terreno técnico
Downside: Durabilidad media en asfalto
Nutrition
Aid stations at mountain refuges
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
Gourmet Latino Bocadillo de Guayaba Gourmet Latino
100% natural, sin ingredientes artificiales
Downside: Sabor muy dulce, puede cansar en ingestas repetidas
Sun Protection
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
Tape or patches on hot spots before the start
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
BSN Medical (Leukotape) Leukotape P Cinta Deportiva
Car Rental
Mountain roads with curves but well maintained
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.
Travesera Picos de Europa 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
Best GPS Watches with Offline Maps 2026: Value Comparison
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Best Skyrunning Shoes 2026: 8 Models for Rock and High Mountain
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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
See comparison
Historical weather
What to wear at 15 °C: guide and kit →
Typical weather for the race date (10-year average)
Temperature
14°C – 23°C
Average 19°C
Rain
47%
5.5 mm avg
Wind
10 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
9h
daily average
Gear recommendations
Bring a waterproof jacket (47% 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.
Sun protection essential (9h sunshine, up to 23°C)
Forecast for 11 September
Weather forecast from Open-Meteo (may change until race day)
Travesera Picos de Europa
Travesera Picos de Europa is a 72K ultra with 5,800m D+ that traverses all three massifs of Picos de Europa. It is widely regarded as the most technical and toughest trail race in Spain. Held in September from Potes (Cantabria).
Travesera Picos de Europa is, for many, the toughest and most technical ultra trail in Spain. Its 72-kilometer course with 5,800 meters of positive elevation gain crosses the three massifs of Picos de Europa through high-mountain limestone terrain, gullies, sinkholes and ridges that demand both physical fitness and technical mountain experience.
The Course
The Travesera 72K crosses all three massifs of Picos de Europa: Western (Cornión), Central (Urrieles) and Eastern (Ándara). The terrain is technical limestone with gullies, sinkholes and scrambling sections. The course passes by the Naranjo de Bulnes.
The route starts from Potes and traverses all three massifs in a loop that passes through the most iconic landmarks of Picos:
- Central Massif (Urrieles) - The most rugged, with the Naranjo de Bulnes as its landmark
- Canal de Capozo - A technical limestone gully with scrambling sections
- Jou de los Cabrones - An area of karst sinkholes at 2,000m
- Refugio de Cabariezo - An aid station in remote terrain
- Desfiladero del Cares - The final stretch, more of a hiking trail
The Most Technical Race in Spain
The Travesera is considered the most technical race in Spain due to its scrambling sections, limestone gullies and karst terrain. Gloves are needed for scrambling and high-mountain experience is essential. This is not a race for beginners.
Unlike other ultras where the challenge is distance or elevation, at the Travesera the deciding factor is technical skill. There are sections where you need to use your hands to scramble, steep gullies of loose limestone and areas of karrenfeld where a wrong step can be dangerous. The organizers require demonstrable high-mountain experience. Review the mandatory gear guide to prepare for the extensive equipment list.
Picos de Europa
Picos de Europa is the highest limestone massif in western Europe, with summits exceeding 2,600 meters. It is shared between Asturias, Cantabria and León. The landscape is spectacular: limestone spires, deep gorges, glacial lakes and mountain meadows.
Picos de Europa National Park, the first in Spain (declared in 1918), protects a unique ecosystem. Chamois, griffon vultures and the brown bear inhabit these mountains, and Travesera runners share the trails with wildlife.
Limited Spots
The Travesera has only 400-500 spots. They sell out very quickly and a minimum of 3 ITRA points is required. A lottery is held among all registered runners who meet the requirements.
The limited number of spots reflects the fragility of the environment and the logistical difficulty of organizing an event in such remote terrain. Rescue teams are distributed along the course, but evacuation from some points can take several hours.
Use our time estimator to plan your pacing on this extreme course, and check out our budget guide to plan expenses. Browse more races in Cantabria.
Mandatory Gear
According to the official race regulations
With spare batteries
Mandatory for the major climbs
360Complete Pack
Travesera Picos de Europa 2026 Registration
RegistrationSpots are very limited and sell out quickly. ITRA points are required.
Tips
- •Very limited spots: 400-500 runners for the Travesera
- •3 ITRA points are required for the Travesera 72K
- •A medical certificate with ECG is mandatory
- •A lottery is held if demand exceeds available spots
Where to Stay for the Travesera
AccommodationPotes is the main base. The Liébana region has a good selection of rural accommodation.
Tips
- •Potes has hotels, guesthouses and rural cottages
- •The Liébana region is a tourist area with good accommodation options
- •September is not peak season: more reasonable prices
- •Fuente Dé (cable car) is 20 minutes from Potes
Recommended Gear for the Travesera
GearExtreme terrain: limestone gullies, sinkholes, scree fields and scrambling sections. The most technical race in Spain.
Tips
- •Shoes with maximum protection and grip on rock
- •Poles are mandatory for the major climbs
- •Gloves recommended for scrambling sections
- •The most technical race in Spain: prepare full mountain gear
Which shoes for Travesera Picos de Europa?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for Travesera Picos de Europa?
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 Plan for the Travesera
NutritionAn ultra of up to 22 hours with extreme elevation changes. Very high caloric expenditure.
Tips
- •Aid stations at mountain refuges
- •The extreme elevation gain increases caloric expenditure
- •Solid food and broth at night-time aid stations
- •Carry extra food: the stretches between aid stations are long
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 Potes
TransportPotes is in the Liébana region (Cantabria), accessible from Santander and the A-8 motorway.
Tips
- •Santander Airport (SDR) is 120 km away (1h 45min)
- •Bilbao Airport (BIO) is 200 km away (2h 30min)
- •The Desfiladero de La Hermida gorge is the main access route
- •A car is essential for this area
Car Rental for the Travesera
Car RentalA car is essential to reach Potes and get around the Liébana region.
Tips
- •Mountain roads with curves but well maintained
Sports Insurance for the Travesera
InsuranceAn extreme ultra in high-mountain limestone terrain. Insurance with helicopter rescue coverage is mandatory.
Tips
- •Liability and rescue insurance is mandatory
- •The organization requires specific insurance for the event
- •Very remote areas: rescue can take hours
Body care for Travesera Picos de Europa
Body CareFeet and skin face hours of sweat and friction. A blister and anti-chafe kit prevents the silliest DNF.
Tips
- •Tape or patches on hot spots before the start
- •Blister plasters in the vest from the first kilometre
Sun protection for Travesera Picos de Europa
Sun ProtectionMountain UV radiation is more intense. Protect your skin and lips with sweat-resistant sunscreen.
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 Travesera Picos de Europa 2026?
- Travesera Picos de Europa 2026 takes place on September 12, with the start and finish in Potes (Cantabria).
- What distances does the Travesera offer?
- Two distances: the Travesera 72K (5,800m D+) and the Machacona 36K (2,800m D+).
- Are ITRA points required for the Travesera?
- Yes, ITRA points are required for the Travesera 72K. Spots are limited and sell out quickly.
- Why is it considered one of the toughest ultras in Spain?
- The course crosses all three massifs of Picos de Europa through extremely technical high-mountain limestone terrain, with 5,800m of positive elevation gain and exposed sections.
- How do you get to Potes?
- Potes is 1h 30min from Santander via the A-67 and N-621. There are also buses from Santander and Oviedo, although a car is the most practical option.
- What mandatory gear is required?
- The organization requires strict mandatory gear including a windbreaker, long tights, gloves, beanie, headlamp with spare batteries, whistle and emergency blanket.
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