Photo: Club de Montaña La Bóveda (opens in a new tab)Sorbeda del Sil
Trail de la Castaña
Saturday, 17 October 2026
Trail de la Castaña 19K
19km D+ 1000m
Castañina Speed 10K
10km D+ 400m
Your checklist for Trail de la Castaña
What you need, category by category, with our #1 pick for this race. Tick what you already have.
0 of 8 ready
Swipe to see all 9 categories
Swipe to see all 9 categories
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
Aggressive-lug shoes: October's damp ground and fallen leaves get slippery
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
One gel every 45-60 minutes is enough on the 19K
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 sunscreen for the 19K's toughest climbs
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
Low gaiters keep stones and leaves out on the climbs
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Salomon Trail Gaiters Low
Quick, simple velcro closure to put on and take off
Downside: Coverage only up to the ankle, not enough for mud or deep snow
Car Rental
Pick up the car in Ponferrada or León for more fleet options
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)DRIVALIA CarCloud Country Plus
Mandatory
Windproof jacket
Recommended for October's cool early-morning temperatures in El Bierzo
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Salomon Bonatti WP
Mandatory
Emergency whistle
Standard requirement in FCLM mountain race rulebooks for isolated sections
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Fox 40 Classic
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
Rain and mud at Trail de la Castaña: pack this kit
Grippy shoes, rain jacket, gaiters and blister protection for a wet race.
See the full kit : Rain and Mud Trail Running Kit 2026: What to Bring to a Wet RaceMandatory Gear
According to the official race regulations
Windproof jacket
Recommended for October's cool early-morning temperatures in El Bierzo
Emergency whistle
Standard requirement in FCLM mountain race rulebooks for isolated sections
Items tagged “Mandatory” are in the checklist above, with a recommended product.
Race data
Terrain
Mountain
Difficulty
Intermediate
Distance
2 modalities
Trail de la Castaña 19K
- Distance
- 19 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 1000m
- Max Time
- -
Castañina Speed 10K
- Distance
- 10 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 400m
- Max Time
- -
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | Max Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trail de la Castaña 19K | 19 km | D+ 1000m | - |
| Castañina Speed 10K | 10 km | D+ 400m | - |
Will your watch battery last the ~5 h of Trail de la Castaña?Worked out for the longest course (19 km). See which watches reach the finish with GPS on and which die on the way.Check my watch Check my watchTrail de la Castaña 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 12°C
Rain
53%
4.3 mm avg
Wind
13 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
6h
daily average
Gear recommendations
Bring a waterproof jacket (53% 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 8°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 17 October
Weather forecast from Open-Meteo (may change until race day)
Trail de la Castaña
Sorbeda del Sil, a small village in the municipality of Páramo del Sil in El Bierzo, becomes the center of Castile and León mountain running every October. Trail de la Castaña, organized by Club de Montaña La Bóveda, has grown edition after edition into a scoring race for the Castile and León Short Distance Trail Running Championship, drawing runners from across the region alongside local support from the Alto Bierzo area.
A Mountain Route Through El Bierzo
The flagship race, Trail de la Castaña, covers 19 kilometers with 1,000 meters of climbing through the hills surrounding Sorbeda del Sil, with technical stretches through oak and chestnut groves. For those looking for a more manageable distance without giving up the mountain feel, Castañina Speed offers 10 kilometers with 400 meters of climbing. Runners who’d rather not compete can join the Andarina, a non-competitive 14-kilometer hike through part of the same terrain at a relaxed pace.
A Popular Chestnut Festival at the Finish
What sets this race apart from the rest of the El Bierzo–León calendar is what happens after crossing the finish line: a popular chestnut-roasting festival with free roasted chestnuts for every participant, plus paella and live music. It’s as much a sporting event as a local celebration, coinciding with the chestnut harvest season in the district — El Bierzo’s signature product.
El Bierzo Beyond the Race
Use the trip to Sorbeda del Sil to explore El Bierzo: the D.O. Bierzo vineyards, the Bárcena reservoir and hiking routes along the Sil valley are all a short drive away. Ponferrada, with its Templar castle, is the ideal base for lodging and getting around the district. Discover more mountain races in Castile and León or plan your full season with the race planner.
360Complete Pack
Trail de la Castaña 2026 Registration
RegistrationThe 6th edition of Trail de la Castaña, organized by Club de Montaña La Bóveda. Registration through GedSports with limited spots.
Tips
- •Online registration via GedSports
- •Counts toward the Castile and León Short Distance Trail Running Championship
- •Check the club's official rulebook before registering
Where to Stay in El Bierzo for Trail de la Castaña
AccommodationSorbeda del Sil is a small village; Ponferrada, about 40 minutes away, is the best base with more lodging and dining options.
Tips
- •Book ahead if you're traveling on the Castile and León championship weekend
- •Ponferrada is the best logistical base for its proximity and hotel options
Gear for Trail de la Castaña
GearMountain terrain with technical stretches and fallen chestnut leaves in October: shoes with strong grip and trekking poles help on the toughest climbs.
Tips
- •Aggressive-lug shoes: October's damp ground and fallen leaves get slippery
- •Foldable poles help on the 19K's steepest climb
Which shoes for Trail de la Castaña?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for Trail de la Castaña?
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 de la Castaña
NutritionShort mountain distances (10K and 19K): one or two gels plus electrolytes is enough to finish with energy.
Tips
- •One gel every 45-60 minutes is enough on the 19K
- •Hydrate well the night before; October mornings in El Bierzo can be cool
How to Get to Sorbeda del Sil
TransportSorbeda del Sil sits in the municipality of Páramo del Sil, El Bierzo, León, well connected by road from Ponferrada.
Tips
- •From Ponferrada: 40 minutes via the CL-631
- •From León city: 1h45 via the A-6 and CL-631
- •Nearest airport: León (LEN), 1h30 away
Car Rental for El Bierzo
Car RentalPublic transport between villages in El Bierzo is limited; a rental car makes it easier to reach Sorbeda del Sil and explore the district before or after the race.
Tips
- •Pick up the car in Ponferrada or León for more fleet options
Sports Insurance for Trail de la Castaña
InsuranceA regional federation license or day insurance is required to start, per Castile and León Mountain Federation rules.
Tips
- •FCLM license or day insurance required to participate
- •Check the club's official rulebook before registering
Sun Protection for Trail de la Castaña
Sun ProtectionEven though it's an autumn race, sun exposure on El Bierzo's open high sections still calls for protection, especially on morning starts once the fog clears.
Tips
- •Sweat-resistant sunscreen for the 19K's toughest climbs
Body Care for Trail de la Castaña
Body CareTechnical terrain with roots and fallen chestnut leaves raises the risk of chafing and knocks; low gaiters and a good anti-chafe balm prevent surprises at the finish.
Tips
- •Low gaiters keep stones and leaves out on the climbs
- •Anti-chafe balm on friction points if you'll be racing for more than 2 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is Trail de la Castaña 2026?
- The 6th edition of Trail de la Castaña takes place on October 17, 2026 in Sorbeda del Sil, León.
- What distances does Trail de la Castaña offer?
- Two competitive distances: Trail de la Castaña, 19K with 1,000m of climbing, and Castañina Speed, 10K with 400m of climbing. There is also a non-competitive 14K hike, the Andarina.
- Is it suitable for beginners?
- The 10K Castañina Speed is manageable for runners with some mountain running experience. The 19K Trail de la Castaña requires better fitness and experience on technical mountain terrain.
- How do I get to Sorbeda del Sil?
- Sorbeda del Sil belongs to the municipality of Páramo del Sil, in the El Bierzo district of León. From Ponferrada it's about 40 minutes via the CL-631. From León city, roughly 1h45 via the A-6 and CL-631.
- What makes this race special?
- Trail de la Castaña counts toward the Castile and León Short Distance Trail Running Championship and ends with a popular chestnut festival: free roasted chestnuts, paella and live music for runners and their companions.
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