Vielha
HOKA Val d'Aran by UTMB
Friday, July 3, 2026
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
Date, registration & deadlines
Jul 3, 2026 · Check official website
Registration
Prices, deadlines and direct registration link
Local guides
Race data
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | ITRA | 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 |
What you need
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.
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 WP
Chaqueta cortavientos impermeable ultraligera (135 g). Costuras selladas, capucha ajustable y ventilación trasera. Se pliega en su propio bolsillo.
Sun protection essential (12h sunshine, up to 23°C)
Forecast for July 3
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
InscripciónA 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 inscripciónTips
- •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
AlojamientoVielha is the capital of Val d'Aran with a good range of hotels. Demand is very high in July.
Browse all alojamientoTips
- •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
MaterialHigh-mountain Pyrenean terrain in July. Mandatory gear varies by distance. The VDA 163K requires full mountain equipment.
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
La zapatilla de trail más versátil de Salomon, ideal para terrenos técnicos y barro. Agarre excepcional con suela Contagrip y amortiguación EnergyCell+.
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
Bastones plegables de trail en 3 tramos (110-130 cm). Carbono ultraligero (175 g por bastón), plegado compacto de 38 cm. Sistema de cierre Speed Lock 2.
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 Cushioned Trail Running Shoes for Ultras 2026
The 6 best max-cushion trail shoes for ultra and long distance in 2026: Hoka Tecton X3, Hoka Speedgoat 7, Hoka Mafate 5, Brooks Cascadia 18, Nike Ultrafly and Hoka Challenger 8. Carbon plate, PEBA/ZoomX foams, stability and which runner each one is for.
Best Trail Shoes for Mud & Technical Terrain 2026
The 4 best trail shoes for mud and technical terrain in 2026: Salomon Speedcross 6, Inov-8 Mudclaw G 260, La Sportiva Bushido III and La Sportiva Mutant. Lugs, grip on rock and mud, and which terrain each one is for.
Best Technical Trail Running Apparel 2026: Jackets, Tights, Gloves and Gaiters
Comparison of the 7 essential technical pieces for trail running in cold, wind or rain: Gore-Tex rain jacket, windproof shell, thermal base layer, tights, gloves, buff and gaiters. What to combine depending on your race's weather.
Best Trail Running Hydration Vests 2026: 5 Models Compared
In-depth comparison of the 5 best hydration vests for trail running in 2026. Salomon ADV Skin 12 Set, CamelBak Octane, Compressport UltRun Vest, AONIJIE 10L and HANKER waist belt. Flasks vs reservoir, capacity, and who each one suits.
Best Trail Running Poles 2026: 4 Foldable Models Compared
In-depth comparison of the 4 best foldable trail running poles in 2026. Technical analysis of Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z, Leki Ultratrail FX.One, Komperdell Carbon FXP Trail and Cascade Mountain Tech. Weight, folded length, system and grip.
Best ultra trail GPS watches 2026: a battery-life comparison
A comparison of the best GPS watches for ultra trail in 2026, ranked by real battery life. Garmin Enduro 3, Fenix 8, Forerunner 965, Coros Apex 2 Pro, Suunto Vertical and more. Battery in GPS and multi-band mode, maps, weight and price. Figures verified against the manufacturer.
Nutrition plan for Val d'Aran by UTMB
NutriciónThe 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
Bocadillo de guayaba natural en formato individual de 26 g. Alto contenido en vitamina C y carbohidratos de rápida absorción. Textura sólida y envoltorio fácil de abrir, ideal para llevar en carrera. Sabor dulce intenso que aporta energía inmediata sin necesidad de agua.
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, SaltStick, Precision Hydration, Medjool dates and more. How many carbs per hour you need and how to split them.
How to get to Vielha
TransporteVielha is in the central Pyrenees, accessible from both Spain and France.
Browse all transporteTips
- •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
Alquiler de vehículoA 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
Suscripción de alquiler de vehículos tipo SUV/crossover, ideal para llegar a carreras de montaña por carreteras rurales y pistas forestales.
DRIVALIA
DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud City
Suscripción de alquiler de vehículos urbanos, perfecta para desplazarte a carreras con buenos accesos por autovía y carretera convencional.
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
SeguroA high-mountain ultra in the Pyrenees. Insurance with rescue coverage is essential.
Browse all seguroTips
- •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
Protección solarPeak 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+
Protector solar facial ultraligero de fase acuosa con SPF 50+. Textura fluida que se absorbe al instante sin dejar residuo graso, ideal para aplicar durante la carrera. Resistente al agua y al sudor.
Sun Bum
Sun Bum Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 30
Bálsamo labial con protección solar SPF 30 en formato stick. Hidrata y protege los labios de quemaduras solares, un punto que muchos corredores olvidan. Sabor a coco, sin parabenos.
Piz Buin
Piz Buin Mountain SPF 50+
Crema solar de montaña con SPF 50+ formulada para condiciones extremas de altitud. Protección extra contra la radiación UV intensificada y el viento frío. Textura rica que protege la piel de la deshidratación.
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
Body care for Val d'Aran by UTMB
Cuidado corporalProtect 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
Gafas de sol deportivas con lentes fotocromáticas Reactiv que se adaptan automáticamente a las condiciones de luz (categoría 1 a 3). Diseñadas para trail running con patillas antideslizantes y ventilación integrada.
Buff
Buff CoolNet UV+
Tubular multifunción con protección UV UPF 50+ y tecnología de refrigeración. Se puede usar como cuello, cinta de cabeza, balaclava o muñequera. El tejido CoolNet refleja los rayos UV y enfría la piel por evaporación.
Compressport
Compressport ArmForce Ultralight
Manguitos de compresión ultraligeros con protección UV UPF 40+. Protegen los brazos del sol, arañazos de vegetación y frío en cumbres. Se pueden poner y quitar fácilmente sin parar.
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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