Photo: Spain Backyard Ultra / SourceCastro Caldelas, Ourense
Spain Backyard Ultra
Saturday, 22 May 2027estimated date
Backyard loop (6.706 km/h)
6.706km D+ 240m
Spain Backyard Ultra 2027: estimated date 22 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.
Backyard ultra format
Complete format guide: rules, gear and strategy
Race data
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | Max Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backyard loop (6.706 km/h) | 6.706 km | D+ 240m | 1h | 50 EUR |
Gear up for Spain Backyard Ultra
Buying guides with the best value for money, picked for this kind of terrain.
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See comparisonWhat you need
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Petzl
Petzl Actik Core
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
10°C – 19°C
Average 14°C
Rain
43%
1.9 mm avg
Wind
16 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
12h
daily average
Gear recommendations
Bring a waterproof jacket (43% 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
Salomon
Salomon Bonatti WP
Chaqueta cortavientos impermeable ultraligera (135 g). Costuras selladas, capucha ajustable y ventilación trasera. Se pliega en su propio bolsillo.
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.
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.
Bring thermal layers (low of 10°C)
Buff
Buff Thermonet
Buff tubular térmico con tecnología Primaloft. Retiene el calor corporal, ultraligero y polivalente: gorro, braga, cinta. Ideal para alta montaña.
Craft
Craft Pro Hypervent LS Wind Top
Thermal top with a windproof ripstop panel on the chest and a highly ventilated soft jersey back. Built for high-intensity sessions in cold, windy conditions, with long cuffs and thumb loops.
HANKER
HANKER Braga de Cuello Térmica
Unisex thermal seamless neck gaiter in Soft Air Plus fabric (97% polyester). Seamless fit designed for trail running, cycling, motorcycling and outdoor sports. A budget alternative to Buff for moderate cold.
Icebreaker
Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis LS Crewe
Long-sleeve thermal top in 100% merino wool (200g). Natural temperature regulation, genuine multi-day odor resistance and a soft, non-itch handfeel from the fine merino yarn.
Odlo
Odlo Active Warm Eco
Camiseta térmica de manga larga con tejido reciclado y tratamiento antiolor. Regulación térmica activa, ideal como capa base en montaña.
Odlo
Odlo I-Thermic Longsleeve Mujer
Women's long-sleeve thermal top with insulating panels placed over cold-sensitive areas (lower back and kidneys). A mid-layer built for genuinely cold winter conditions, mountain outings or cross-country-style trail sessions.
Salomon
Salomon Agile LS Tee
Lightweight quick-dry polyester long-sleeve tee with underarm mesh, a side pocket and reflective details. Works as a standalone layer in mild cold or as a base layer under a windbreaker on colder days.
Salomon
Salomon Cross Run Tight
Mallas largas de trail con tejido elástico y transpirable. Cintura ajustable, bolsillo trasero con cremallera. Protección contra el frío y la vegetación.
Salomon
Salomon Cross Warm Glove
Guantes térmicos de running con palma antideslizante y puntas táctiles. Ligeros, cálidos y compatibles con bastones.
Under Armour
Under Armour ColdGear Armour Compression Mock
Compression thermal top with a dual-layer fabric: ultra-warm brushed interior and quick-dry exterior. Second-skin compression fit with stretch mesh panels at the back and underarms for ventilation without losing warmth.
Forecast for 22 May
Real-time data from Open-Meteo
Spain Backyard Ultra
Spain Backyard Ultra is the official backyard ultra race in Spain and host of the 4th World National Teams Championship. It takes place every spring in Castro Caldelas, a village declared one of Spain’s most beautiful, in the heart of the Ribeira Sacra (Ourense).
The format
The concept is simple and brutal: a 6.706 km loop with 240 metres of elevation gain that starts every hour on the hour. If you’re not at the start line when the bell rings, you’re out. The race continues until only one runner can complete another loop. That runner is the winner — the last one standing.
The loop
The circuit runs under the tree cover surrounding Castro Caldelas castle, with mountain trails through the Ribeira Sacra. With 240 m of elevation gain per loop, it’s one of the toughest loops on the global backyard ultra circuit. That means less rest time between loops and greater cumulative fatigue.
Silver Ticket
The winner earns a Silver Ticket: a direct spot on Spain’s national team for the World Championship. It also qualifies runners for the 2027 Individual World Championship.
Strategy
The key to a backyard isn’t running fast — it’s managing effort hour by hour:
- First 12 hours: comfortable pace, constant eating, hydration
- Hours 12-24: the mental battle begins. Rotate shoes, dry clothes, hot food
- Beyond 24 hours: every loop is a victory. Simplify the routine, one foot in front of the other
Plan your fueling for the long haul with our nutrition calculator, and use the gear checklist to make sure nothing is left behind at your aid station setup.
Castro Caldelas and the Ribeira Sacra
Castro Caldelas is the gateway to the Ribeira Sacra, one of Galicia’s most spectacular areas. River canyons, terraced vineyards, monasteries and landscapes that deserve a few extra days of exploring. Browse more events in Galicia.
360Complete Pack
Spain Backyard Ultra 2026 Registration
RegistrationSpain's official backyard ultra with Silver Ticket for the World National Teams Championship.
Browse all registrationTips
- •Limited to 150 spots
- •Registration opens January 1, 2026
- •Winner qualifies for Spain's national team
- •Team category: up to 4 runners, loops are summed
Where to stay for Spain Backyard Ultra
AccommodationCastro Caldelas is a small village in the Ribeira Sacra with limited accommodation.
Browse all accommodationTips
- •Book early: options in Castro Caldelas are limited
- •Rural houses in the Ribeira Sacra are the best choice
- •Ourense city is about 50 minutes by car
- •Camping area available near the race venue
Gear for Spain Backyard Ultra
GearMountain loop with 240 m elevation gain per lap. May in Galicia can be rainy and cool.
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Salomon's most versatile trail shoe, ideal for technical terrain and mud. Exceptional grip with Contagrip sole and EnergyCell+ cushioning.
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.
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.
Tips
- •At least 2 pairs of shoes: rotating every few loops reduces blisters
- •Powerful headlamp mandatory if the race extends into the night
- •Camping chair for resting between loops
- •Spare socks: bring at least 4-5 pairs
- •Thermal layers for the Galician early morning
Which shoes for Spain Backyard Ultra?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for Spain Backyard Ultra?
Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time
Best Trail Running Headlamps 2026: Comparison & Buying Guide
In-depth comparison of the best headlamps for trail running in 2026. Petzl Iko Core, Nitecore NU25, Ledlenser iH5R and Petzl Actik Core. Lumens, battery life and weight to help you choose based on your race's night hours.
Night Running Safety Kit: What to Wear Besides a Headlamp
A headlamp lights the trail, but it doesn't make you visible to others. Complete guide to the night running safety kit: rear light, reflective armband, high-visibility vest and power bank, with when you actually need each piece.
Best Shoes for Backyard Ultra 2026: Buying Guide
The 4 best shoes for Backyard Ultra in 2026: Altra Lone Peak 9, New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9, Saucony Peregrine 16 and Salomon Sense Ride 5. Wide toe box, durability and comfort for dozens of 4.167-mile loops.
Nutrition for a backyard ultra
NutritionIn a backyard ultra the feeding window is ~15 minutes per hour. Real food and variety are key to going beyond 24 hours.
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.
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
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.
Tips
- •Real food: sandwiches, rice, pasta, hot broth
- •Don't rely only on gels: the stomach suffers after 12 hours
- •Prepare a box with food organized in 4-6 hour blocks
- •Hot broth for the night hours: salt, calories and warmth
- •Strategic caffeine from nightfall (coffee, cola, caffeinated gels)
How to get to Castro Caldelas
TransportCastro Caldelas is in inland Ourense, deep in the Ribeira Sacra. Road access only.
Browse all transportTips
- •From Ourense: 50 minutes via the OU-536
- •From Santiago de Compostela: 1h 40 min via AP-53 + OU-536
- •From Madrid: about 5 hours via the A-6
- •No direct public transport: a car is essential
Car rental for Spain Backyard Ultra
Car RentalRural location with no public transport. A car is necessary.
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
- •You can also pick up a car at Ourense train station (AVE from Madrid)
- •Mountain roads: no tolls but winding
Sports insurance for backyard ultra
InsuranceExtreme endurance ultra with no distance limit. Sports insurance mandatory.
Browse all insuranceTips
- •Civil liability insurance mandatory
- •Mountain rescue coverage recommended
- •Spanish mountain federation licence or private trail running insurance
Body care for Spain Backyard Ultra
Body CareProtect your feet, skin and joints during the race: sunglasses, anti-chafe balm and post-race recovery.
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.
Bob and Brad
Bob and Brad Q2 Mini
Mini massage gun designed by two physiotherapists: 430 g, brushless motor with 15 kg stall force and operation under 45 dB. Charges over USB-C from any charger and ships with a case. The value pick for packing recovery into your bag or car boot.
Sun protection for Spain Backyard Ultra
Sun ProtectionMountain UV radiation is more intense. Protect your skin and lips with sweat-resistant sunscreen.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
- What is a backyard ultra?
- A backyard ultra is a race where participants must complete a 6.706 km (4.167 mile) loop every hour. The last runner who can complete a loop is the winner.
- When is Spain Backyard Ultra 2026?
- May 23, 2026, starting at 10:00 from Castro Caldelas, Ourense.
- What is the Silver Ticket?
- The winner earns a Silver Ticket granting a spot on Spain's national team for the World Championship in October.
- How many participants can enter?
- Maximum capacity is 150 participants. Registration opens on January 1.
- What type of terrain is the loop?
- Mountain trail under tree cover, starting from Castro Caldelas castle in the Ribeira Sacra. 240 metres of elevation gain per loop.
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