Aldeanueva de la Vera, Cáceres
XVII CxM Carrera Pencona
Sunday, 30 May 2027estimated date
XVII CxM Carrera Pencona 2027: estimated date 30 May 2027
The organiser has not published the official 2027 schedule yet. The estimated date is based on last year's edition; we'll confirm it as soon as it's announced. Start sorting your gear and logistics.
Race data
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | Max Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrera Pencona 21K | 21 km | D+ 1200m | 5h | 30 EUR |
| Mini Pencona 11K | 11 km | D+ 500m | 2h | 15 EUR |
XVII CxM Carrera Pencona 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 Bonatti WP
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
15°C – 24°C
Average 20°C
Rain
23%
1.0 mm avg
Wind
12 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
13h
daily average
Gear recommendations
Sun protection essential (13h sunshine, up to 24°C)
Forecast for 30 May
Real-time data from Open-Meteo
Carrera Pencona
The Carrera Pencona is a classic mountain race starting from Aldeanueva de la Vera (Cáceres) through the Sierra de Gredos on technical, demanding terrain. Now in its XVII edition, it’s one of the flagship races in the Extremadura calendar and part of the Extremadura Mountain Running Championship (FEXME).
The Course
The route crosses the southern slopes of the Sierra de Gredos from the Plaza de San Antón in Aldeanueva de la Vera. The terrain is tough and highly technical: mountain trails, rocky sections, and steep climbs that challenge even experienced runners. The views over the La Vera region and the Tiétar valley make every meter of climbing worthwhile.
Distances
- Carrera Pencona 21K (~1,200m D+) — The main distance. A demanding mountain trail with technical sections and four aid stations (km 5.5, 13.5, 17, and 21). Time limit: 5 hours.
- Mini Pencona 11K (~500m D+) — A more accessible distance on mountain paths and tracks, with one aid station at km 5.5. Time limit: 2 hours.
- Ruta Senderista (~14K) — A non-competitive hiking route, ideal for companions and mountain lovers. Start at 9:15 AM.
Terrain and Difficulty
The terrain is pure mountain: technical trails, rocky zones, and sustained elevation changes in the Sierra de Gredos. The 21K with 1,200m of positive elevation gain is a demanding race that requires mountain trail experience. The Mini Pencona is more accessible but shouldn’t be underestimated. Mandatory gear checks are performed on 100% of runners.
Aldeanueva de la Vera and the Region
Aldeanueva de la Vera sits in the heart of the La Vera region, famous for its natural gorges, Pimentón de la Vera (DOP smoked paprika), and cherry blossoms. In May, the mountains are green and the gorges run with water — the perfect setting for a mountain race.
Nearby you’ll find the Cuartos and Alardos gorges, natural swimming pools perfect for post-race recovery. The Monastery of Yuste, where Emperor Charles V retired, is just 15 minutes away. Plan your trail weekend with the planner and discover more races in Extremadura.
Atmosphere and Services
The Pencona stands out for its runner-friendly approach: complete aid stations, commemorative t-shirt, category trophies, and the traditional migas extremeñas for all finishers. A village event with a mountain heart.
Mandatory Gear
According to the official race regulations
360Complete Pack
Inscripción Carrera Pencona 2026
RegistrationXVII edición de la CxM Carrera Pencona. Campeonato de Extremadura de Carreras por Montaña (FEXME). Inscripciones a través de Chipserena.
Browse all registrationTips
- •Fecha aproximada: último domingo de mayo (por confirmar)
- •Precio aproximado: ~30€ (21K) y ~15€ (11K). Descuento para federados
- •Salida desde la Plaza de San Antón, Aldeanueva de la Vera
- •Incluye seguro, cronometraje, avituallamientos y migas extremeñas en meta
- •También hay Ruta Senderista (~14K, no competitiva)
Dónde dormir para la Carrera Pencona
AccommodationAldeanueva de la Vera está en la comarca de La Vera, una zona con alojamientos rurales con encanto entre cerezos y gargantas naturales.
Browse all accommodationTips
- •Aldeanueva de la Vera: casas rurales y apartamentos con encanto
- •Jaraíz de la Vera (15 min): más opciones de alojamiento y servicios
- •Plasencia (40 min): hoteles y hostales de todas las categorías
- •Mayo coincide con la temporada de cerezas en La Vera — reserva con antelación
Material para la Carrera Pencona
GearTerreno de montaña técnico y exigente en la Sierra de Gredos. La 21K acumula 1.200m de desnivel con tramos duros y técnicos.
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 Bonatti WP
Chaqueta cortavientos impermeable ultraligera (135 g). Costuras selladas, capucha ajustable y ventilación trasera. Se pliega en su propio bolsillo.
Lifesystems
Lifesystems Thermal Blanket
Manta térmica de emergencia reflectante. Retiene el 90% del calor corporal. Ultraligera (60 g) y compacta, cabe en cualquier mochila de trail.
Fox 40
Fox 40 Classic
Silbato de emergencia sin pieza interna, funciona mojado y con barro. Sonido de 115 dB audible a gran distancia. El estándar en carreras de montaña.
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.
Tips
- •Zapatillas de trail con tacos agresivos para terreno técnico de montaña
- •Cortavientos con capucha obligatorio — imprescindible en Gredos
- •Manta térmica obligatoria (mínimo 1,2m x 2,1m)
- •Mochila de hidratación con mínimo 500ml de capacidad
- •Bastones opcionales pero recomendables para los 1.200m D+ de la 21K
Which shoes for XVII CxM Carrera Pencona?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for XVII CxM Carrera Pencona?
Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time
Best Trail Running Poles 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
The best trail running poles in 2026, compared on technical criteria: Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z, Leki Ultratrail FX.One, Komperdell Carbon FXP Trail and Cascade Mountain Tech. Weight, folded length, aluminium vs carbon, technique and how to pick your size.
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 Value Trail and Mountain GPS Watches 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
The best value-for-money trail and mountain GPS watches in 2026: Coros Pace 3, Amazfit T-Rex 3 and Cheetah Pro, Garmin Forerunner 165 and Suunto Race 2. How much a good trail watch costs, which ones have cheap offline maps, whether an Amazfit performs like a Garmin and which watch to buy for your budget. Figures verified against the manufacturer.
Nutrición para la Carrera Pencona
NutritionCuatro avituallamientos en la 21K (km 5.5, 13.5, 17 y 21) y uno en la 11K (km 5.5). Lleva autonomía entre puestos.
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.
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.
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.
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
- •Geles o barritas energéticas para la 21K: el desnivel exige aporte constante
- •Sales minerales o bebida isotónica — mayo en Extremadura puede ser caluroso
- •La 11K tiene un solo avituallamiento, lleva algo de autonomía
- •En meta te esperan las tradicionales migas extremeñas
Cómo llegar a Aldeanueva de la Vera
TransportAldeanueva de la Vera está en la comarca de La Vera, al noreste de Cáceres, a los pies de la Sierra de Gredos.
Browse all transportTips
- •Desde Madrid: ~2h30 por la A-5 y EX-203
- •Desde Plasencia: 40 minutos por la EX-203
- •Desde Cáceres capital: ~1h30 por la A-66 y EX-203
- •Parking disponible en el pueblo
Alquiler de coche para la Carrera Pencona
Car RentalEl coche es imprescindible para llegar a Aldeanueva de la Vera. No hay transporte público directo.
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
- •Ideal para combinar con ruta por La Vera, gargantas naturales y cerezos
- •Las carreteras de La Vera son sinuosas pero bien asfaltadas
Seguro deportivo para la Carrera Pencona
InsuranceCarrera federada bajo la FEXME. Seguro de accidentes incluido en la inscripción.
Browse all insuranceTips
- •La inscripción incluye seguro de accidentes
- •Licencia federativa FEXME recomendable
- •Cobertura de rescate en montaña recomendable por el terreno técnico
Cuidado corporal para la Carrera Pencona
Body CareTerreno técnico de montaña con tramos exigentes. Protección contra rozaduras importante en distancias largas.
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
- •Vaselina en zonas de roce: pies, muslos, axilas
- •Calcetines técnicos de trail para evitar ampollas en terreno técnico
- •Protege los pezones con esparadrapo
Protección solar para la Carrera Pencona
Sun ProtectionMayo en la Sierra de Gredos: sol intenso y exposición prolongada en zonas abiertas de montaña.
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
- •Crema solar SPF 50 imprescindible en cara, cuello y brazos
- •Reaplicar cada 2 horas — mayo en Extremadura puede superar los 30°C
- •Gorra o visera obligatoria por reglamento
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the Carrera Pencona 2026?
- The exact date of the XVII edition is to be confirmed. It's typically held on the last Sunday of May. In 2025 it was May 25th and in 2024 May 26th.
- What distances does the Carrera Pencona have?
- Two competitive distances: the Carrera Pencona 21K with ~1,200m of elevation gain and the Mini Pencona 11K with ~500m D+. There's also a non-competitive 14K hiking route.
- Is it suitable for beginners?
- The Mini Pencona (11K, 500m D+) is accessible for runners with some mountain experience. The 21K with 1,200m of elevation gain is demanding and requires preparation.
- How to get to Aldeanueva de la Vera?
- Aldeanueva de la Vera is in the La Vera region, northeast of Cáceres. About 2h30 from Madrid via the A-5 and EX-203. Plasencia is 40 minutes away and Jaraíz de la Vera 15 minutes.
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