Vielha
HOKA Val d'Aran by UTMB
Wednesday, 7 July 2027
VDA 163K
163km D+ 10000m
CDH 110K
110km D+ 6400m
TDL 75K
75km D+ 5100m
PDA 55K
55km D+ 3300m
EXP 32K
32km D+ 2100m
SKY 18K
18km D+ 900m
SKY Promesas 18K
18km D+ 900m
Vielha 10K
10km D+ 500m
Your checklist for HOKA Val d'Aran by UTMB
What you need, category by category, with our #1 pick for this race. Tick what you already have.
0 of 17 ready
Swipe to see all 18 categories
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GPS watch
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Suunto Vertical 2
Bezel-integrated LED flashlight with red light and SOS mode
Downside: Heavy in steel (87 g); the titanium version drops to 74 g
Gear
The VDA 163K requires a 30L minimum pack and two headlamps
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
Aid stations at Bossost, Salardu, and Arties for the VDA
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
Reapply every 2 hours, even on cloudy days
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
Category 4 sunglasses recommended for snow patches and high-altitude sections
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
A car is needed to move between valley towns during the 5-day event
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)DRIVALIA CarCloud Country Plus
Mandatory · VDA 163K
Hydration vest
30L minimum pack for the VDA
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Salomon ADV Skin 12
Mandatory · VDA 163K, CDH 110K, TDL 75K, PDA 55K
Headlamp
Two headlamps mandatory for VDA and CDH, one for TDL and PDA (200+ lumens recommended)
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Petzl Actik Core
Mandatory
Emergency blanket
Emergency bivvy 2.0m x 0.9m minimum for long distances; survival blanket 1.4m x 2.0m for short ones
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Lifesystems Thermal Blanket
Mandatory
Waterproof jacket
Sealed seams, minimum 10,000mm water column
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Gore Wear R7 GTX Shakedry
Mandatory
Long-sleeve thermal layer
Long-sleeve thermal layer, minimum 180g, non-cotton
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Odlo Active Warm Eco
Mandatory
Gloves
Mandatory for all long distances
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Salomon Cross Warm Glove
Mandatory
Emergency whistle
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Fox 40 Classic
Mandatory
Charged mobile phone
With international roaming and LiveTrail app activated
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Generic Running Waist Pack with Phone Pocket
Mandatory
Reusable cup
Personal cup, 15cl minimum
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Salomon Soft Flask 250 ml
High-flow valve: quick sips without hard biting
Downside: Pricier than generic Amazon flasks
Mandatory
Water reserve
1.5L for VDA/CDH/TDL, 1L for PDA/EXP
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)MARLOAR Soft Flask 500 ml (Pack of 2)
Two units for the price of one branded flask
Downside: Silicone is heavier and tastes slightly more than branded TPU flasks
Mandatory
Food reserve
800 kcal minimum food reserve
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)GU Energy Gel Original
Fast absorption thanks to the carbohydrate blend
Downside: Needs to be taken with water
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.
Mandatory Gear
According to the official race regulations
Hydration vestVDA 163K
30L minimum pack for the VDA
HeadlampVDA 163K, CDH 110K, TDL 75K, PDA 55K
Two headlamps mandatory for VDA and CDH, one for TDL and PDA (200+ lumens recommended)
Emergency blanket
Emergency bivvy 2.0m x 0.9m minimum for long distances; survival blanket 1.4m x 2.0m for short ones
Waterproof jacket
Sealed seams, minimum 10,000mm water column
Long-sleeve thermal layer
Long-sleeve thermal layer, minimum 180g, non-cotton
Gloves
Mandatory for all long distances
Emergency whistle
Charged mobile phone
With international roaming and LiveTrail app activated
Reusable cup
Personal cup, 15cl minimum
Water reserve
1.5L for VDA/CDH/TDL, 1L for PDA/EXP
Food reserve
800 kcal minimum food reserve
Items tagged “Mandatory” are in the checklist above, with a recommended product.
Race data
Terrain
Mountain
Difficulty
Elite
Distance
8 modalities
VDA 163K
Price: 281 EUR
- Distance
- 163 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 10000m
- Max Time
- 48h
- UTMB
100M
CDH 110K
Price: 224 EUR
- Distance
- 110 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 6400m
- Max Time
- 28h
- UTMB
100K
TDL 75K
Price: 180 EUR
- Distance
- 75 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 5100m
- Max Time
- 20h
- UTMB
- 100K
PDA 55K
Price: 135 EUR
- Distance
- 55 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 3300m
- Max Time
- 14h
- UTMB
50K
EXP 32K
Price: 85 EUR
- Distance
- 32 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 2100m
- Max Time
- 7h15
- UTMB
- 50K
SKY 18K
Price: 55 EUR
- Distance
- 18 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 900m
- Max Time
- -
- UTMB
20K
SKY Promesas 18K
Price: 44 EUR
- Distance
- 18 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 900m
- Max Time
- -
- UTMB
- 20K
Vielha 10K
Price: 27 EUR
- Distance
- 10 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 500m
- Max Time
- -
- UTMB
- -
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | UTMB | Max Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VDA 163K | 163 km | D+ 10000m | 100M | 48h | 281 EUR |
| CDH 110K | 110 km | D+ 6400m | 100K | 28h | 224 EUR |
| TDL 75K | 75 km | D+ 5100m | 100K | 20h | 180 EUR |
| PDA 55K | 55 km | D+ 3300m | 50K | 14h | 135 EUR |
| EXP 32K | 32 km | D+ 2100m | 50K | 7h15 | 85 EUR |
| SKY 18K | 18 km | D+ 900m | 20K | - | 55 EUR |
| SKY Promesas 18K | 18 km | D+ 900m | 20K | - | 44 EUR |
| Vielha 10K | 10 km | D+ 500m | - | - | 27 EUR |
Will your watch battery last the ~51 h of HOKA Val d'Aran by UTMB?Worked out for the longest course (163 km). See which watches reach the finish with GPS on and which die on the way.Check my watch Check my watchHOKA Val d'Aran by UTMB 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 Cushioned Trail Running Shoes for Ultras 2026
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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
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Historical weather
What to wear at 15 °C: guide and kit →
Typical weather for the race date (10-year average)
Temperature
13°C – 23°C
Average 18°C
Rain
67%
3.1 mm avg
Wind
8 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
12h
daily average
Gear recommendations
Bring a waterproof jacket (67% 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.
Sun protection essential (12h sunshine, up to 23°C)
Forecast for 7 July
Weather forecast from Open-Meteo (may change until race day)
Val d’Aran by UTMB
HOKA Val d’Aran by UTMB is one of the European Majors of the UTMB World Series. Held every July in the Val d’Aran, in the heart of the central Pyrenees, the race offers 8 distances ranging from 10K to 163K and attracts over 6,000 runners from 80 nationalities.
Val d’Aran by UTMB celebrates its sixth edition in 2027 and fifth consecutive year as a European Major. Runners traverse the valleys and ridges of the Aranese Pyrenees, with access to Aiguestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, the only national park in Catalonia.
The course
The flagship race, the VDA 163K, starts from Vielha with 10,000m of elevation gain and a 48-hour time limit. The circular course crosses the main valleys of the Aran, with mountain passes above 2,500m and traverses through fir forests, alpine meadows, and rocky ridgelines.
Races start from different points across the valley:
- VDA 163K — Starts from Vielha on Friday at 16:00. Two nights in the mountains.
- CDH 110K — Starts from Les on Friday at 06:00. One full night.
- TDL 75K — Starts from Bossost on Wednesday at 08:00.
- PDA 55K — Starts from Salardu on Thursday at 07:00.
- EXP 32K — Starts from Vielha on Sunday at 08:00. Ideal for trail running beginners.
- SKY 18K — Starts on Saturday. A vertical ridge run.
- Vielha 10K — Introductory race on Wednesday.
UTMB World Series
Val d’Aran by UTMB is one of the European Majors of the UTMB World Series. The VDA 163K awards 8 Running Stones and grants direct access to the UTMB Mont-Blanc 2027 finals for the top 10 male and female runners. Around 225 direct entries are awarded across all categories. Read our ITRA points guide to understand how UTMB qualification works.
The Val d’Aran
The Val d’Aran is the only Atlantic-facing valley in the Spanish Pyrenees. Its oceanic microclimate creates a unique landscape of lush forests, fast-flowing rivers, and alpine meadows. Vielha, the capital, offers a perfect base with good hotel infrastructure, restaurants, and services.
The event transforms the valley over five days, with a festive atmosphere that combines elite sport with mountain tourism. The shorter distances allow runners of all levels to discover the valley.
Use our time estimator to set realistic goals, and review the mandatory gear guide to prepare for the extensive equipment requirements. Explore more races in Catalonia.
360Complete Pack
Val d'Aran by UTMB 2027 Registration
RegistrationA European Major of the UTMB World Series. Registration through the UTMB portal. The VDA 163K and CDH 110K grant direct access to the finals.
Tips
- •Registration through the official UTMB platform
- •The VDA 163K requires prior Running Stones to enter
- •Limited places: over 6,000 runners from 80 nationalities in the previous edition
- •Medical certificate required
Where to stay for Val d'Aran by UTMB
AccommodationVielha is the capital of Val d'Aran with a good range of hotels. Demand is very high in July.
Tips
- •Book months in advance: July is peak season in Val d'Aran
- •Vielha, Bossost, Salardu, and Arties all have accommodation options
- •Holiday apartments as an alternative to hotels
- •The event spans 5 days: plan a longer stay if accompanying runners in multiple distances
Recommended gear for Val d'Aran by UTMB
GearHigh-mountain Pyrenean terrain in July. Mandatory gear varies by distance. The VDA 163K requires full mountain equipment.
Tips
- •The VDA 163K requires a 30L minimum pack and two headlamps
- •Emergency bivvy mandatory for all long distances
- •Poles highly recommended given the cumulative elevation
- •July can bring storms: waterproof jacket with sealed seams is mandatory
Choosing trekking poles? Read our guide: Best trail running poles
See our complete buying guide: 5 foldable poles compared and tiered for trail running.
Which shoes for HOKA Val d'Aran by UTMB?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for HOKA Val d'Aran by UTMB?
Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time
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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 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.
Best Mountain GPS Watches 2026: Comparison for Trail, Alpinism and Hiking
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Nutrition plan for Val d'Aran by UTMB
NutritionThe VDA 163K has a 48-hour time limit. Nutrition management is critical for long distances.
Tips
- •Aid stations at Bossost, Salardu, and Arties for the VDA
- •800 kcal food reserve mandatory for all distances
- •Plan solid food for the two nights of the VDA 163K
- •July heat increases hydration and electrolyte needs
Best ultra trail gels and nutrition 2026
A comparison of the best gels, bars, electrolytes and natural alternatives for ultra trail nutrition in 2026: Maurten, GU, SiS, 226ERS, Precision Hydration, Medjool dates and more. How many carbs per hour you need and how to split them.
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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 Vielha
TransportVielha is in the central Pyrenees, accessible from both Spain and France.
Tips
- •From Barcelona (BCN): 3h30 via the C-16 and Vielha Tunnel
- •From Toulouse (TLS): 1h45, the quickest option by air
- •From Lleida: 2h30 via the N-230 and Vielha Tunnel
- •Alsa buses connect Barcelona to Vielha in season
Car rental for Val d'Aran by UTMB
Car RentalA car is recommended for getting around Val d'Aran and reaching the various start points.
Tips
- •A car is needed to move between valley towns during the 5-day event
- •Limited parking in Vielha during the event: arrive early
Sports insurance for Val d'Aran by UTMB
InsuranceA high-mountain ultra in the Pyrenees. Insurance with rescue coverage is essential.
Tips
- •Civil liability insurance is mandatory to participate
- •Helicopter rescue coverage highly recommended
- •For international runners: travel insurance with sports coverage
Sun protection for Val d'Aran by UTMB
Sun ProtectionPeak July sun at altitude above 2,500m intensifies UV radiation significantly. Long hours on exposed alpine ridges and snowfields demand maximum protection.
Tips
- •Reapply every 2 hours, even on cloudy days
- •UV intensity increases 10-12% per 1,000m of altitude — SPF50+ is essential above 2,000m
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 Val d'Aran by UTMB
Body CareProtect your eyes and skin from intense high-altitude UV during July in the Pyrenees. Arm sleeves add an extra layer of protection on the long ridge traverses.
Tips
- •Category 4 sunglasses recommended for snow patches and high-altitude sections
- •UV-blocking arm sleeves prevent burns on multi-day efforts without adding heat
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is Val d'Aran by UTMB 2027?
- The sixth edition takes place from July 7 to 11, 2027, with staggered starts by distance. The VDA 163K starts on Friday, July 9.
- What distances does Val d'Aran by UTMB offer?
- 8 distances: VDA 163K, CDH 110K, TDL 75K, PDA 55K, EXP 32K, SKY 18K, SKY Promesas 18K, and Vielha 10K.
- Does Val d'Aran by UTMB qualify for UTMB Mont-Blanc?
- Yes, it is a European Major of the UTMB World Series. The VDA 163K awards 8 Running Stones and gives direct access to the UTMB Mont-Blanc 2027 finals for the top 10 runners.
- How do you get to Vielha?
- Vielha is in the Val d'Aran, accessible via the Vielha Tunnel (N-230) from Lleida (2h30) or via Pont de Rei from France. Nearest airports: Toulouse (TLS, 1h45) and Barcelona (BCN, 3h30).
- What kind of terrain does the course have?
- High-mountain trails through the central Pyrenees, with sections through Aiguestortes National Park. Technical terrain with passes above 2,500m, fir forests, and alpine meadows.
- What is the mandatory gear?
- Varies by distance. For the VDA 163K: 30L pack, 1.5L water, two headlamps, emergency bivvy, waterproof jacket, thermal layer, waterproof trousers, waterproof gloves, whistle, and 800 kcal food reserve.
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