Finestrat, Alicante
Costa Blanca Trails
Friday, 13 November 2026
GTCB 102K
102km D+ 6020m
UTCB 66K
66km D+ 4160m
MCB 41K
41km D+ 3100m
TPC 20K
20km D+ 2180m
MTF 17K
17km D+ 1010m
Costa Blanca Trails 2026 registration opens on
Save the date and get your gear ready in the meantime.
Race data
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | Max Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GTCB 102K | 102 km | D+ 6020m | 27h | - |
| UTCB 66K | 66 km | D+ 4160m | 18h | - |
| MCB 41K | 41 km | D+ 3100m | 12h | - |
| TPC 20K | 20 km | D+ 2180m | 6h | - |
| MTF 17K | 17 km | D+ 1010m | 5h | - |
Costa Blanca Trails requires mandatory gear: get it sorted early
Buying guides with the best value for money, picked for this kind of terrain.
Best Value Trail and Mountain GPS Watches 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
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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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Best salt tablets and sodium capsules for running 2026
See comparisonWhat you need
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Maurten
Maurten Gel 100
Gourmet Latino
Bocadillo de Guayaba Gourmet Latino
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
12°C – 20°C
Average 16°C
Rain
20%
0.7 mm avg
Wind
14 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
8h
daily average
Forecast for 13 November
Real-time data from Open-Meteo
Costa Blanca Trails
Costa Blanca Trails is one of the most important trail running events in the Valencian Community. From Finestrat (Alicante), five mountain races traverse the Aitana, Puig Campana and La Serrella ranges, crossing some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Mediterranean. The three main distances (102K, 66K and 41K) are UTMB Index Races.
The races
- GTCB 102K — The flagship race. 102 km with 6,020m D+ across all the ranges of the Marina Baixa. Starts on Friday at 23:00 with a 27-hour time limit.
- UTCB 66K — 66 km with 4,160m D+. Also starts on Friday at 23:00 with an 18-hour time limit.
- MCB 41K — 41 km with 3,100m D+. The marathon distance through the most iconic summits. 12-hour time limit.
- TPC 20K — 20 km with 2,180m D+. The Puig Campana trail, a short but intense race.
- MTF 17K — 17 km with 1,010m D+. The Mountain Trail Finestrat, ideal for beginners.
The 102K also features a relay option for two-runner teams.
The course
The routes run through the mountain ranges of the Marina Baixa, a succession of limestone mountains rising from the coast to nearly 1,600 metres. The terrain is technical: rocky trails, ravines, exposed ridgeline sections and steep descents. Runners pass through the municipalities of Finestrat, Polop, Benimantell, Benifato, Sella, Fageca, Confrides and more.
Pure Mediterranean mountain
The Serra d’Aitana (1,558m), Puig Campana (1,406m) and La Serrella form a natural amphitheatre above the coast. Pine and oak forests, almond trees on the hillsides, springs and ravines. In November, the summits may dawn with frost while the coast enjoys pleasant temperatures. It’s the perfect combination of technical mountain and Mediterranean climate. Read our ITRA points guide to understand how the UTMB Index system works.
Finestrat, the perfect base
Finestrat is a town with two faces: the medieval old quarter perched on the slopes of Puig Campana and the coastal area just 10 minutes from Benidorm. That proximity to the Costa Blanca’s tourist infrastructure — hotels, restaurants, transport — makes logistics simple, without losing the mountain character. After crossing the finish line, the Mediterranean is just a step away.
Use our time estimator to set realistic goals for the GTCB 102K, and review the mandatory gear guide to prepare. Explore more races in the Comunidad Valenciana.
Mandatory Gear
According to the official race regulations
Mandatory for the night starts (23:00)
Essential for November summits
With sufficient battery for the entire race
Cup or soft flask mandatory at aid stations
360Complete Pack
Costa Blanca Trails 2026 Registration
RegistrationFive distances for all levels, from the MTF 17K to the GTCB 102K. The three longest races are UTMB Index Races.
Browse all registrationTips
- •Registration opens on May 18, 2026
- •GTCB 102K, UTCB 66K and MCB 41K are UTMB Index Races
- •Relay option (2 runners) on the 102K
- •Semi self-sufficiency required in all distances
Where to stay for Costa Blanca Trails
AccommodationFinestrat and Benidorm (10 minutes away) offer a huge range of accommodation.
Browse all accommodationTips
- •Finestrat: ideal base right at the start/finish
- •Benidorm (10 min): huge range of hotels and apartments
- •La Nucía and Polop: quieter options 10-15 minutes away
- •November is low season on the coast: very affordable prices
Gear for Costa Blanca Trails
GearTechnical Mediterranean mountain with major elevation changes. The Aitana and Puig Campana ranges combine rocky trails, ravines and ridgeline sections.
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Salomon's most versatile trail shoe, ideal for technical terrain and mud. Exceptional grip with Contagrip sole and EnergyCell+ cushioning.
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.
New Balance
New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9
The model breaking into Spain's best-seller charts. Fresh Foam X midsole with a solid balance between cushioning and ground feel, a Vibram Megagrip outsole, and a comfortable last suited to wide feet. A reliable all-rounder for training runs and mountain races of any distance.
Saucony
Saucony Peregrine 16
The all-round trail shoe par excellence, with excellent reviews across every type of runner. PWRTRAC outsole with 5 mm lugs for grip on mixed and technical terrain, balanced PWRRUN cushioning, and rock-plate protection depending on the version. The perfect middle ground between responsiveness and protection.
Freet
Freet Feldom 3
100% barefoot trail shoe with zero drop, minimal stack (6 mm sole) and anatomical last that respects the natural width of the foot. No midsole cushioning: maximum proprioception and ground feedback. Multi-directional lugs for dirt trails and paths. Designed for runners already adapted to minimalist footwear or those transitioning gradually from cushioned natural footwear.
Garmin
Garmin Forerunner 965
Premium running watch with a 1.4" AMOLED display, onboard topo maps, multi-band GPS and music. Up to 31 h in GPS mode (19 h multi-band) and 23 days in smartwatch mode, at just 53 g. Garmin's top running watch without the bulk of a Fenix: ideal for marathons and single-day ultras with accurate navigation.
Tips
- •Trail shoes with grip for limestone rock and technical terrain
- •Headlamp mandatory: the 102K and 66K start at night (23:00)
- •Poles highly recommended for the long distances
- •Windproof jacket and thermal layers: November summits drop below 5°C at night
Which shoes for Costa Blanca Trails?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for Costa Blanca Trails?
Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time
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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.
Nutrition for Costa Blanca Trails
NutritionThe 102K lasts up to 27 hours and the 66K up to 18 hours. Nutrition and hydration management are critical.
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.
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.
226ERS
226ERS Recovery Drink
Muscle recovery shake from Spanish brand 226ERS. Formula with whey protein, amylopectin, amino acids (including glutamine and BCAAs) and minerals. Carb-to-protein ratio optimised for the post-exercise window. Good taste and digestive tolerance.
226ERS
226ERS Sub9 Pro Salts Electrolytes
The caffeinated version of Sub9 Salts: 250 mg of sodium and 40 mg of caffeine per capsule, plus potassium, magnesium and ginger. Made for the final stretch of an ultra, when you need to replace salts and get a lift without opening another caffeine gel.
Tips
- •Semi self-sufficiency: carry gels, bars and electrolytes between aid stations
- •Aid stations on course with liquid and solid food
- •For the 102K, plan real food for the night hours
- •The 41K and shorter distances: 2-4 gels and electrolytes may be enough
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 Finestrat
TransportFinestrat is on the Alicante coast, between Benidorm and Villajoyosa, with excellent connections.
Browse all transportTips
- •Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC) 50 km away (40 minutes)
- •From Valencia: 1h 30min via the AP-7
- •From Madrid: 4h via the A-31 and AP-7
- •Frequent buses from Benidorm and Alicante
Car rental for Costa Blanca Trails
Car RentalCar recommended to reach Finestrat and explore the Costa Blanca.
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
- •AP-7 and motorways connect the entire Costa Blanca
- •Useful for exploring the inland villages (Guadalest, Confrides, Sella)
Sports insurance for Costa Blanca Trails
InsuranceSemi self-sufficient mountain races with technical sections and significant elevation changes.
Browse all insuranceTips
- •Federation licence or day insurance required
- •Medical certificate may be required for long distances
- •Nearest hospital in La Vila Joiosa (15 min) or Benidorm
- •Travel insurance with sports coverage for international runners
Body care for Costa Blanca Trails
Body CareEffort of up to 27 hours on technical mountain terrain. Preventing chafing and blisters is key.
After Bite
After Bite Xtra Gel
Soothing gel with 3.5% ammonia for immediate relief from skin irritations. Compact format (20 g) ideal for carrying in a trail running vest. Effective against processionary caterpillar urticating hairs, nettles and insect bites.
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.
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.
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
- •Vaseline on chafe-prone areas before the start (feet, armpits, groin)
- •Technical anti-blister socks: essential for long distances
- •For the 102K: carry extra vaseline and plasters in your vest
- •Change socks at life bases (102K and 66K)
Sun protection for Costa Blanca Trails
Sun ProtectionNovember on the Costa Blanca: moderate UV radiation but with many hours of exposure on long distances.
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.
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.
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.
Tips
- •Night races (102K, 66K) will need sun protection at dawn
- •SPF 50 sunscreen on face, neck and arms
- •Lip balm with SPF for windy ridgeline sections
- •Cap or visor for the midday hours
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is Costa Blanca Trails 2026?
- November 13-15, 2026. The long distances (102K and 66K) start on Friday at 23:00. Shorter distances take place on Saturday.
- What distances does Costa Blanca Trails offer?
- Five races: GTCB 102K (6,020m D+), UTCB 66K (4,160m D+), MCB 41K (3,100m D+), TPC 20K (2,180m D+) and MTF 17K (1,010m D+). There is also a relay option on the 102K.
- Where is the start and finish?
- Start and finish in Finestrat (Alicante). The course passes through Polop, Benimantell, Benifato, Sella, Fageca, Confrides and more.
- Is it a UTMB qualifier?
- Yes, the GTCB 102K, UTCB 66K and MCB 41K are UTMB Index Races and award ITRA points.
- When does registration open?
- Registration for the 2026 edition opens on May 18, 2026.
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