Aldeanueva de la Vera, Cáceres
XVII CxM Carrera Pencona
Sunday, 30 May 2027estimated date
Carrera Pencona 21K
21km D+ 1200m
Mini Pencona 11K
11km D+ 500m
Your checklist for XVII CxM Carrera Pencona
What you need, category by category, with our #1 pick for this race. Tick what you already have.
0 of 13 ready
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GPS watch
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)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)
Gear
Trail shoes with aggressive lugs for technical mountain terrain
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Nike Ultrafly
ZoomX foam: exceptional energy return inherited from the Vaporfly
Downside: High price (190 EUR)
Nutrition
Energy gels or bars for the 21K: the elevation demands constant fueling
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Maurten Gel 100
Hydrogel technology: excellent gastric tolerance
Downside: High price compared to other gels
Sun Protection
SPF 50 sunscreen essential on face, neck, and arms
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)ISDIN Fusion Water Sunscreen SPF 50+
Ultralight texture, feels invisible on skin
Downside: Small format (50 ml), may run short on ultras
Body Care
Anti-chafe balm on friction areas: feet, thighs, armpits
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)After Bite Xtra Gel
Immediate relief from processionary caterpillar irritation
Downside: Strong ammonia smell
Car Rental
Great for combining with a La Vera road trip: gorges, cherry trees, and monasteries
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)DRIVALIA CarCloud Country Plus
Mandatory
Windproof jacket
Long-sleeved, windproof, with hood
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Salomon Bonatti WP
Mandatory
Emergency blanket
Minimum 1.2m x 2.1m
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Lifesystems Thermal Blanket
Mandatory
Water reserve
Bottle, soft flask, or hydration pack
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Salomon Soft Flask 250 ml
High-flow valve: quick sips without hard biting
Downside: Pricier than generic Amazon flasks
Mandatory
Charged mobile phone
Powered on with sufficient battery
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Generic Running Waist Pack with Phone Pocket
Mandatory
Cap or visor
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Salomon Cross Visor
Cooler than a closed cap
Downside: Does not protect the top of the head from the sun
Mandatory
Long tights
At least knee-length
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Salomon Cross Run Tight
Mandatory · Mini Pencona 11K
Emergency whistle
Mandatory for Mini Pencona and Hiking Route
Done, you already have it
View on Amazon →(opens in a new tab)Fox 40 Classic
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.
Mandatory Gear
According to the official race regulations
Windproof jacket
Long-sleeved, windproof, with hood
Emergency blanket
Minimum 1.2m x 2.1m
Water reserve
Bottle, soft flask, or hydration pack
Charged mobile phone
Powered on with sufficient battery
Cap or visor
Long tights
At least knee-length
Emergency whistleMini Pencona 11K
Mandatory for Mini Pencona and Hiking Route
Items tagged “Mandatory” are in the checklist above, with a recommended product.
Race data
Terrain
Mountain
Difficulty
Advanced
Distance
2 modalities
Carrera Pencona 21K
Price: 30 EUR
- Distance
- 21 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 1200m
- Max Time
- 5h
Mini Pencona 11K
Price: 15 EUR
- Distance
- 11 km
- Elevation Gain
- D+ 500m
- Max Time
- 2h
| 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 |
Will your watch battery last the ~5 h of XVII CxM Carrera Pencona?Worked out for the longest course (21 km). See which watches reach the finish with GPS on and which die on the way.Check my watch Check my watchXVII CxM Carrera Pencona 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 15 °C: guide and kit →
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
Weather forecast from Open-Meteo (may change until race day)
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.
360Complete Pack
Carrera Pencona 2026 Registration
RegistrationXVII edition of the CxM Carrera Pencona. Extremadura Mountain Running Championship (FEXME). Registration through Chipserena.
Tips
- •Approximate date: last Sunday of May (to be confirmed)
- •Approximate price: ~€30 (21K) and ~€15 (11K). Discount for federated runners
- •Start from Plaza de San Antón, Aldeanueva de la Vera
- •Includes insurance, timing, aid stations, and traditional migas at the finish
- •There's also a ~14K non-competitive hiking route
Where to Stay for the Carrera Pencona
AccommodationAldeanueva de la Vera is in the La Vera region, an area with charming rural accommodation among cherry trees and natural gorges.
Tips
- •Aldeanueva de la Vera: charming rural houses and apartments
- •Jaraíz de la Vera (15 min): more accommodation and services
- •Plasencia (40 min): hotels and hostels of all categories
- •May coincides with cherry season in La Vera — book early
Gear for the Carrera Pencona
GearTechnical and demanding mountain terrain in the Sierra de Gredos. The 21K accumulates 1,200m of elevation gain with tough, technical sections.
Tips
- •Trail shoes with aggressive lugs for technical mountain terrain
- •Hooded windproof jacket mandatory — essential in Gredos
- •Emergency blanket mandatory (minimum 1.2m x 2.1m)
- •Hydration pack with at least 500ml capacity
- •Poles optional but recommended for the 1,200m D+ on the 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
Best trail running poles 2026: Black Diamond, Leki and Komperdell compared. Carbon vs aluminium, folding length, technique and how to pick your size.
Best Trail Running Hydration Vests 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
Best trail running hydration vests 2026: 12 vests and packs compared. How many litres you need by distance, soft flasks vs reservoir, and fit.
Strength Training Gear for Trail Running at Home 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
Comparison of the best strength training gear for trail runners at home: dumbbells, resistance bands, kettlebell, TRX, weight bench and foam roller, with a 3-day-a-week routine.
Nutrition for the Carrera Pencona
NutritionFour aid stations on the 21K (km 5.5, 13.5, 17, and 21) and one on the 11K (km 5.5). Carry nutrition between stations.
Tips
- •Energy gels or bars for the 21K: the elevation demands constant fueling
- •Mineral salts or isotonic drink — May in Extremadura can be hot
- •The 11K has only one aid station, carry some nutrition
- •Traditional migas extremeñas await you at the finish line
How to Get to Aldeanueva de la Vera
TransportAldeanueva de la Vera is in the La Vera region, northeast of Cáceres, at the foot of the Sierra de Gredos.
Tips
- •From Madrid: ~2h30 via the A-5 and EX-203
- •From Plasencia: 40 minutes via the EX-203
- •From Cáceres city: ~1h30 via the A-66 and EX-203
- •Parking available in the village
Car Rental for the Carrera Pencona
Car RentalA car is essential to reach Aldeanueva de la Vera. There is no direct public transport.
Tips
- •Great for combining with a La Vera road trip: gorges, cherry trees, and monasteries
- •La Vera roads are winding but well-paved
Sports Insurance for the Carrera Pencona
InsuranceFederated race under FEXME. Accident insurance included in registration.
Tips
- •Registration includes accident insurance
- •FEXME federation license recommended
- •Mountain rescue coverage recommended due to technical terrain
Body Care for the Carrera Pencona
Body CareTechnical mountain terrain with demanding sections. Chafing protection is important on longer distances.
Tips
- •Anti-chafe balm on friction areas: feet, thighs, armpits
- •Technical trail socks to prevent blisters on rough terrain
- •Protect nipples with medical tape
Sun Protection for the Carrera Pencona
Sun ProtectionMay in the Sierra de Gredos: intense sun and prolonged exposure on open mountain terrain.
Tips
- •SPF 50 sunscreen essential on face, neck, and arms
- •Reapply every 2 hours — May in Extremadura can exceed 30°C
- •Cap or visor mandatory per race rules
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.
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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