Vielha
HOKA Val d'Aran by UTMB
Friday, 9 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
HOKA Val d'Aran by UTMB 2027 registration opens on
Save the date and get your gear ready in the meantime.
Race data
| 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 |
HOKA 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.
What you need
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Salomon
Salomon ADV Skin 12
Maurten
Maurten Gel 100
How long will it take you?
Estimate your race time based on distance, elevation and your runner level.
Historical weather
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.
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.
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 (12h sunshine, up to 23°C)
Forecast for 9 July
Real-time data from Open-Meteo
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 2026 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.
Mandatory Gear
According to the official race regulations
Two headlamps mandatory for VDA and CDH, one for TDL and PDA (200+ lumens recommended)
Long-sleeve thermal layer, minimum 180g, non-cotton
With international roaming and LiveTrail app activated
Personal cup, 15cl minimum
360Complete Pack
Val d'Aran by UTMB 2026 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.
Browse all registrationTips
- •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 2025
- •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.
Browse all accommodationTips
- •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.
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Salomon's most versatile trail shoe, ideal for technical terrain and mud. Exceptional grip with Contagrip sole and EnergyCell+ cushioning.
Salomon
Salomon ADV Skin 12
Chaleco de hidratación de 12 litros con sistema SensiFit. Dos soft flasks frontales de 500 ml incluidas. Bolsillos de fácil acceso y ajuste ceñido sin rebotes.
Petzl
Petzl Actik Core
Frontal recargable de 600 lúmenes con batería Core incluida. Compatible con pilas AAA. Modo rojo para preservar la visión nocturna. Ideal para ultras con tramos nocturnos.
Salomon
Salomon Bonatti WP
Chaqueta cortavientos impermeable ultraligera (135 g). Costuras selladas, capucha ajustable y ventilación trasera. Se pliega en su propio bolsillo.
Leki
Leki Ultratrail FX.One
Foldable trail running poles in 3 sections (110-130 cm). Ultralight carbon (175 g per pole), compact 38 cm folded. Speed Lock 2 locking system.
Black Diamond
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z
Ultralight carbon Z-pole foldable trekking poles. 137 g per pole in 110 cm length, 33 cm folded. EVA grip and adjustable strap. The trail running reference.
Hoka
Hoka Speedgoat 7
The best-selling trail shoe in the US and an absolute ultra-trail classic. Max Hoka cushioning, a Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5 mm lugs for grip in mud and technical terrain, and a snug Matryx upper. Built to eat up kilometres without punishing your legs in long races.
Altra
Altra Lone Peak 9
Trail running shoe with zero drop and wide FootShape toe box that allows natural toe splay. 25 mm stack with EGO foam for balanced cushioning without losing ground contact. MaxTrac outsole with 3.5 mm lugs, ideal for non-technical trails, forest tracks and long-distance paths.
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 tested 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
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 Trail Running Hydration Vests 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
In-depth comparison of the best hydration vests and packs for trail running in 2026: Salomon ADV Skin 12 Set, Salomon Active Skin 8, CamelBak Octane, Compressport UltRun Vest, NNormal Race Vest, AONIJIE 10L and HANKER waist belt. Soft flasks vs reservoir, how many litres by distance, how to stop the vest bouncing and how much water to carry.
Best Technical Trail Running Apparel 2026: Waterproof Jackets, Wind Shells, Tights and Gaiters
Comparison of the essential technical pieces for trail running in cold, wind or rain: 5 jackets (membrane waterproofs and wind shells), thermal base layer, tights, gloves, buff and gaiters. Which jacket to pick depending on your race rulebook and forecast.
Nutrition plan for Val d'Aran by UTMB
NutritionThe VDA 163K has a 48-hour time limit. Nutrition management is critical for long distances.
Maurten
Maurten Gel 100
Gel de hidrogel con 25g de carbohidratos. La tecnología de hidrogel encapsula los carbohidratos para una absorción sin molestias gástricas. Sabor neutro, sin edulcorantes artificiales. Usado por corredores de élite en maratón y ultra.
Science in Sport
SiS GO Isotonic Energy Gel
Gel isotónico que no necesita agua para su consumo. 22g de carbohidratos por sobre. Formulación ligera y fácil de digerir durante el ejercicio intenso. Muy popular en ciclismo y trail running.
Clif Bar
Clif Bar Original Energy Bar
Barrita energética con 40g de carbohidratos y 10g de proteína. Ingredientes orgánicos y sabores naturales. Textura densa, ideal para avituallamientos o secciones tranquilas. Una de las barritas más populares en trail running.
Gourmet Latino
Bocadillo de Guayaba Gourmet Latino
Natural guava bar in individual 26 g format. High in vitamin C and fast-absorbing carbohydrates. Solid texture with easy-open wrapper, perfect for carrying during races. Intense sweet flavor that delivers immediate energy without needing water.
Crown Sport Nutrition
Crown Sport Nutrition 3:1 Recovery+
Recuperador muscular a base de proteína de suero aislada (whey isolate) con ratio carbohidratos-proteína 3:1, enriquecido con L-Leucina y L-Glutamina. Certificado Informed Sport y sin alérgenos añadidos. Formato de 750 g, sabor sandía.
GU
GU Energy Gel Original
Gel energético con 100 calorías y 21g de carbohidratos por sobre. Mezcla de maltodextrina y fructosa para absorción óptima. Incluye aminoácidos y electrolitos. El gel más usado en ultratrails de todo el mundo.
226ERS
226ERS Isotonic Drink
Bebida isotónica en polvo de la marca española 226ERS. Aporta carbohidratos, electrolitos y minerales para mantener la hidratación durante el ejercicio. Fórmula con amilopectina para absorción rápida sin molestias digestivas.
Victory Endurance
Victory Endurance Total Recovery
Preparado en polvo para bebida de recuperación post-entreno con carbohidratos, electrolitos y proteína en ratio BCAA 2:1:1. Incluye 12 vitaminas y 9 minerales para acelerar la recuperación muscular tras un trail largo. Formato de 1250 g, sabor sandía.
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.
Real food for ultras 2026: the best natural alternatives to gels
The best natural alternatives to gels for ultra trail 2026: Medjool dates, dried apricots, quince paste, honey sticks, banana chips and guava bars. How many carbs each delivers, how to combine them with Maurten, GU or SiS gels and when to swap sweet for real food.
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 Vielha
TransportVielha is in the central Pyrenees, accessible from both Spain and France.
Browse all transportTips
- •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.
DRIVALIA
DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud Country Plus
SUV/crossover vehicle rental subscription, ideal for reaching mountain races via rural roads and forest tracks.
DRIVALIA
DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud City
Urban vehicle rental subscription, perfect for getting to races with good highway and conventional road access.
Carla
Carla Car Rental - Reserva ahora, paga después
Car rental comparison in over 180 countries with free cancellation. Book now and pay when you pick up the vehicle, no hidden fees or upfront card charges.
Hertz
Hertz - Alquiler de coches
Car rental with one of the world's most recognised brands, with offices at airports and cities across Spain.
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.
Browse all insuranceTips
- •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.
ISDIN
ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water SPF 50+
Ultralight water-phase facial sunscreen with SPF 50+. Fluid texture that absorbs instantly with no greasy residue, ideal for applying during a race. Water and sweat resistant.
Sun Bum
Sun Bum Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 30
Lip balm with SPF 30 sun protection in stick format. Moisturises and protects lips from sunburn, a spot many runners forget. Coconut flavour, paraben-free.
Piz Buin
Piz Buin Mountain SPF 50+
Mountain sunscreen with SPF 50+ formulated for extreme altitude conditions. Extra protection against intensified UV radiation and cold wind. Rich texture that protects skin from dehydration.
Cantabria Labs
Heliocare 360º Sport Transparent Stick SPF 50+
Transparent SPF 50+ sun stick, 25 g, with 360º protection (UVA, UVB, visible light and infrared). Goes on dry in seconds over face, ears, neck and bald scalp with no sticky hands and no white cast: the format built for reapplying at an aid station. High water and sweat resistance, from a Spanish pharmacy brand.
Columbia
Columbia Schooner Bank II Cachalot
Legionnaire-style cap with neck flap, ideal for long-duration races with intense sun exposure. Covers the neck and ears, two of the areas most prone to sunburn in the mountains.
Julbo
Julbo Aero
Sports sunglasses with a Reactiv photochromic lens that automatically adapts to changing light, an ultralight panoramic frame and the Air Link temple system for a secure, pressure-free fit. Built for high-mountain trail running, where light shifts constantly between forest, rock and open summits.
Buff
Buff Venture Gorra 5 Panel
Lightweight 5-panel cap with UPF 50+ protection, breathable fabric and comfortable fit. Ideal for summer trail running races where weight and ventilation are a priority.
d'Alba
d'Alba Air Fit Fresh Stick SPF 50+ PA++++
Facial SPF 50+ PA++++ sun stick, 19 g, Korean skincare, vegan and fragrance-free. Dry, powdery finish, not sticky, doesn't sting the eyes when you sweat: comfortable for daily training and shorter races. The lightest and cheapest option in the comparison.
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 tested 7 SPF 50 sweat-proof picks — creams, sticks and a lip balm — against heat, altitude UV and hours of sweat. 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.
Julbo
Julbo Aerospeed
Sport sunglasses with Reactiv photochromic lenses that automatically adapt to light conditions (category 1 to 3). Designed for trail running with non-slip temples and integrated ventilation.
Buff
Buff CoolNet UV+
Multifunctional tubular with UPF 50+ UV protection and cooling technology. Can be worn as neck gaiter, headband, balaclava or wristband. CoolNet fabric reflects UV rays and cools the skin by evaporation.
Compressport
Compressport ArmForce Ultralight
Ultralight compression arm sleeves with UPF 40+ UV protection. Protect arms from sun, vegetation scratches and cold on summits. Easy to put on and take off without stopping.
OOFOS
OOFOS OOriginal Sport
Unisex recovery sandal with patented OOfoam technology, which absorbs 37% more impact than conventional EVA foam and reduces stress on feet, ankles and back after exertion. Closed thong-style toe post with built-in arch support in the footbed. Machine washable.
Therabody
Theragun Mini (2.ª generación)
Compact massage gun with QuietForce motor and 3 speeds (1750-2400 percussions/min). Weighs just 500g and fits in your race vest or bag. Ideal for self-massage of quads, calves and glutes after a trail.
Compex
Compex Ayre Recovery Boots
Pneumatic pressotherapy boots with 4 sequential air chambers. Dynamic compression that improves venous return and speeds up toxin elimination after mountain races. 3 pressure levels and 20-30 minute sessions. Built-in rechargeable battery.
Salomon
Salomon Mangas Running
Lightweight, breathable and absorbent running sleeves from Salomon, with a comfortable adaptable fit for variable mountain temperature conditions.
Salomon
Salomon Polaina Cuello Merino
Salomon merino wool neck gaiter. Natural warmth, breathable and odour-resistant even after several uses without washing, key for multi-day ultras. Versatile use in the mountains and premium trail running.
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 2026?
- The sixth edition takes place from July 1 to 5, 2026, with staggered starts by distance. The VDA 163K starts on Friday, July 3.
- 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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