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XXVI Pujada al Montcabrer
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Alcoy

XXVI Pujada al Montcabrer

Sunday, 12 September 2027estimated date

Pujada al Montcabrer

19km D+ 977m

See the gear

Race data

Terrain

Mountain

Difficulty

Intermediate

Distance

1 modalities

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  • Pujada al Montcabrer

    Distance
    19 km
    Elevation Gain
    D+ 977m
    Max Time
    4h
Will your watch battery last the ~4 h of XXVI Pujada al Montcabrer?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

Your checklist for XXVI Pujada al Montcabrer

What you need, category by category, with our #1 pick for this race. Tick what you already have.

0 of 6 ready

  1. GPS watch

    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)

    View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
  2. Gear

    Trail shoes with lugs for rocky, technical terrain

    Nike Ultrafly

    ZoomX foam: exceptional energy return inherited from the Vaporfly

    Downside: High price (190 EUR)

    View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
  3. Nutrition

    Gels and bars to keep your pace on the long climb

    Maurten Gel 100

    Tecnología de hidrogel: excelente tolerancia gástrica

    Downside: Precio elevado respecto a otros geles

    View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
  4. Sun Protection

    Sweat-resistant sunscreen on face, neck and arms

    ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water SPF 50+

    Ultralight texture, feels invisible on skin

    Downside: Small format (50 ml), may run short on ultras

    View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
  5. Body Care

    Anti-chafe cream on feet, groin and underarms before the start

    BodyGlide Original Anti-Chafe Balm

    Easy-to-apply stick format, even with sweaty hands

    Downside: Higher price than traditional petroleum jelly

    View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
  6. Car Rental

    Pick up the car at Alicante airport for convenience

    DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud Country Plus

    View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)
  7. 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.

XXVI Pujada al Montcabrer 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 25 °C: guide and kit →

Typical weather for the race date (10-year average)

Temperature

18°C – 28°C

Average 22°C

Rain

30%

6.6 mm avg

Wind

14 km/h

max. average

Sunshine hours

10h

daily average

Gear recommendations

Bring a waterproof jacket (30% chance of rain)

Asics Gel-Trabuco 14 GTX

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.

View on Amazon →
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Berghaus Paclite 2.0 GTX

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.

View on Amazon →
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Brooks Cascadia 20 GTX

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.

View on Amazon →
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Gore Wear C5 GORE-TEX Glove

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.

View on Amazon →
(opens in a new tab)
Gore Wear M GORE-TEX Thermo Glove

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.

View on Amazon →
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Gore Wear R7 GTX Shakedry

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.

View on Amazon →
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Nike Pegasus Trail 5 GORE-TEX

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.

View on Amazon →
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Salomon Bonatti Pro Waterproof Glove

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.

View on Amazon →
(opens in a new tab)
Salomon Bonatti WP

Salomon

Salomon Bonatti WP

Chaqueta cortavientos impermeable ultraligera (135 g). Costuras selladas, capucha ajustable y ventilación trasera. Se pliega en su propio bolsillo.

View on Amazon →
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Salomon Speedcross 6 GTX

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.

View on Amazon →
(opens in a new tab)
Sealskinz Waterproof Lightweight Glove

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.

View on Amazon →
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TRIWONDER Polainas Impermeables Trail

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.

View on Amazon →
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Sun protection essential (10h sunshine, up to 28°C)

XXVI Pujada al Montcabrer

The Pujada al Montcabrer is one of Alcoy’s most deeply rooted mountain races. In its 26th edition, the event keeps its essence: a climb from the city to the roof of the Serra de Mariola, the imposing 1,390-metre Montcabrer, the highest peak in southern Valencia. Organized by guionet as part of Alcoy’s “Viu l’estiu” summer programme, it’s a must for lovers of Mediterranean mountain running.

A 19-kilometre course

The route covers 19 kilometres with 977 metres of elevation gain, starting from the Municipal Pool in Alcoy and entering the Serra de Mariola Natural Park:

  • Urban start from the Alcoy town center toward the first foothills of the range.
  • Continuous climb along trails and tracks to the Montcabrer summit, with technical, rocky sections.
  • Montcabrer summit (1,390 m), with panoramic views over the l’Alcoià and El Comtat regions and, on clear days, as far as the Mediterranean.
  • Descent back to Alcoy to close the course.

The concentrated gain and mountain terrain make this a medium-difficulty challenge — accessible to runners with endurance but demanding on the climb.

Mediterranean mountain in early September

The race takes place on September 13, 2026, starting at 9:00. At that point in summer the heat still bites in inland Alicante, so hydration management and sun protection are key. The Serra de Mariola, declared a natural park in 2002, is a botanical treasure known for its aromatic and medicinal plants, adding a unique appeal to the route.

Alcoy beyond the race

Alcoy is a city with rich industrial and modernist heritage, famous for its Moors and Christians festivals. After the race, it’s worth exploring its historic center, the bridges spanning the ravines, and the local cuisine. The Serra de Mariola also offers numerous hiking routes and natural springs. Discover other races in the area in the Valencian Community races and add the Pujada al Montcabrer to your season planner.

Mandatory Gear

According to the official race regulations

Recommended due to September heat on the climb

MARLOAR Soft Flask 500 ml (pack de 2)

MARLOAR

MARLOAR Soft Flask 500 ml (pack de 2)

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Fully charged for mountain emergencies

Cinturón de running con porta móvil

Generic

Cinturón de running con porta móvil

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Approx. pack cost:~36,99 €Prices may vary. Check the store for the current price.
0 of 2 items you already have

360Complete Pack

Pujada al Montcabrer 2026 registration

Registration

Registration is handled online through the Rock the Sport platform. It's a classic race with limited spots that tends to sell out in recent editions.

Browse all registration

Tips

  • •Sign up early: it's a popular fixture on the Alcoy calendar with a capped field
  • •Make sure your federation licence or day insurance is valid before completing your bib
  • •Check the rules on Rock the Sport for refund conditions

Where to stay for the Pujada al Montcabrer

Accommodation

Alcoy is a mid-sized city with a good range of hotels, ideal as a base for the race and to explore the Serra de Mariola.

Browse all accommodation

Tips

  • •Alcoy has most hotels and apartments, just minutes from the start
  • •Cocentaina and Muro de Alcoy offer charming rural houses near the natural park
  • •Book ahead: September coincides with local events in the region

Gear for the Pujada al Montcabrer

Gear

A mountain race on Serra de Mariola trails with technical sections on the climb to Montcabrer. Good grip footwear is essential.

Browse all gear

Tips

  • •Trail shoes with lugs for rocky, technical terrain
  • •Carry enough water: September can be hot on the climb
  • •Poles recommended for the continuous ascent to the summit
Nike Ultrafly

Which shoes for XXVI Pujada al Montcabrer?

Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather

→
Garmin Instinct 3 AMOLED 45 mm

Which GPS watch for XXVI Pujada al Montcabrer?

Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time

→
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Best Trail Running Hydration Vests 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide

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Strength Training Gear for Trail Running at Home 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide

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Nutrition for the Pujada al Montcabrer

Nutrition

With around 2-4 hours of effort and a demanding climb, it's worth carrying your own energy between aid stations.

Browse all nutrition

Tips

  • •Gels and bars to keep your pace on the long climb
  • •Electrolyte caps: September heat increases salt loss
  • •Hydrate steadily from the start, before you feel thirsty
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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.

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How to get to Alcoy

Transport

Alcoy is well connected by road in inland Alicante province. The start is right in the town center.

Browse all transport

Tips

  • •Alicante-Elche airport (ALC) about 60 km away
  • •From Alicante: 50 min via the A-7 and CV-795
  • •From Valencia: 1h30 via the A-7
  • •Parking available near the Municipal Pool (start)

Car rental in Alcoy

Car Rental

A car makes it easy to reach Alcoy and explore the Serra de Mariola and the villages of l'Alcoià.

Browse all car rental

Tips

  • •Pick up the car at Alicante airport for convenience
  • •A vehicle lets you combine the race with routes through the natural park

Sports insurance for the Pujada al Montcabrer

Insurance

A mountain race on technical terrain. A federation licence or day insurance is mandatory.

Browse all insurance

Tips

  • •FEMECV licence or day insurance required to take part
  • •Check that your cover includes mountain races

Sun protection for the Pujada al Montcabrer

Sun Protection

In September UV radiation is still high in the Serra de Mariola, with exposed sections on the climb to the summit.

Browse all sun protection

Tips

  • •Sweat-resistant sunscreen on face, neck and arms
  • •Cap or visor for the exposed sections of the ascent
🧴

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.

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Body care for the Pujada al Montcabrer

Body Care

The continuous climb and descent punish feet and joints. Preventing chafing and blisters makes the difference.

Browse all body care

Tips

  • •Anti-chafe cream on feet, groin and underarms before the start
  • •Seamless technical socks to prevent blisters on the descent

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the Pujada al Montcabrer 2026 take place?
On Sunday, September 13, 2026. The start is at 9:00 from the Municipal Pool in Alcoy.
What distance is the Pujada al Montcabrer?
A single 19 km course with 977 m of elevation gain, from Alcoy to the summit of Montcabrer (1,390 m) and back.
Where are the start and finish?
Start and finish at the Municipal Pool area of Alcoy, right in the town center, with easy access and parking.
Is it suitable for mountain beginners?
It is a medium-difficulty race. With 977 m of gain packed into 19 km, it demands endurance and trail experience, but it is manageable for reasonably trained runners.
How do I register?
Registration is handled online through the Rock the Sport platform. The race is organized by guionet.

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