Miraflores de la Sierra
Cross de Cuerda Larga
Sunday, 30 May 2027estimated date
Cross de Cuerda Larga
26km D+ 1500m
Cross de Cuerda Larga 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cross de Cuerda Larga | 26 km | D+ 1500m | - | 20 EUR |
Cross de Cuerda Larga 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 Soft Flask 250 ml
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
11°C – 22°C
Average 16°C
Rain
33%
1.7 mm avg
Wind
12 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
13h
daily average
Gear recommendations
Bring a waterproof jacket (33% 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.
Sun protection essential (13h sunshine, up to 22°C)
Forecast for 30 May
Real-time data from Open-Meteo
Cross de Cuerda Larga: the classic Copa de Hierro traverse
Cross de Cuerda Larga is one of Madrid’s most historic mountain races. Organized since 1988 by RSEA Peñalara (Royal Spanish Mountaineering Society Peñalara), the race was born coinciding with the society’s 75th anniversary and is part of the Copa de Hierro circuit, alongside Cross de los 3 Refugios, Kilómetro Vertical de la Barranca, Carrera de Las Dehesas and Cross de La Pedriza.
The 38th edition in 2026 maintains the spring date (May 31), having moved from autumn in recent years for better weather conditions.
The course: the Cuerda Larga ridge
The 26 kilometers follow the spectacular ridge connecting Puerto de la Morcuera to Puerto de Navacerrada, one of the most iconic traverses in the Sierra de Guadarrama:
- Miraflores de la Sierra — Start from the village, climb to Puerto de la Morcuera
- Loma de Bailanderos (2,133 m) — First summit on the ridge
- Asómate de Hoyos (2,242 m) — High point with impressive views
- Cabeza de Hierro Mayor (2,383 m) — Highest point of the race and roof of Cuerda Larga
- Cerro de Valdemartín (2,283 m) — Continuing along the ridge
- Alto de Guarramillas (2,265 m) — Last major summit before the descent
- Puerto de Navacerrada — Finish at the Military Residence
The terrain is granite ridge with an average altitude above 2,000 m. Despite the altitude, the course is very runnable overall, without major technical difficulties, though with continuous ascents and descents between summits.
Copa de Hierro: Madrid’s mountain tradition
Cross de Cuerda Larga is the second race in the Copa de Hierro Peñalara, a circuit of five mountain races in the Sierra de Guadarrama. To earn a trophy and classification in the Copa de Hierro, runners must complete at least four of the five races. It’s one of the most respected trail competitions in Madrid, with decades of history.
Miraflores de la Sierra: Madrid’s northern sierra
Miraflores de la Sierra is a mountain village 50 km from Madrid, on the southern slopes of the Sierra de Guadarrama. At 1,150 m altitude, it’s a classic starting point for routes to Puerto de la Morcuera and Cuerda Larga. In May, the sierra is in full spring: pleasant temperatures, green meadows and residual snow on the highest peaks.
Mandatory Gear
According to the official race regulations
Mobile phone with sufficient battery and emergency number saved
Windbreaker or rain jacket (may be required depending on weather)
360Complete Pack
Cross de Cuerda Larga 2026 Registration
RegistrationRegistration through the Copa de Hierro website (copadehierro.es). Mountain federation membership (FEDME) is mandatory. Limited to 400 runners.
Browse all registrationTips
- •Mountain federation membership (FEDME license) is mandatory
- •Only 400 spots: register as soon as entries open
- •Bring your ID and federation card on race day
- •Registration includes insurance, aid stations and return bus
Where to stay for Cross de Cuerda Larga
AccommodationMiraflores de la Sierra is a mountain village in Madrid's northern sierra with good rural accommodation. The 9:00 AM start means staying overnight the day before is advisable.
Browse all accommodationTips
- •Rural houses and hotels in Miraflores de la Sierra: book in advance
- •Soto del Real and Manzanares el Real are 10-15 minutes away
- •The finish is at Navacerrada: plan your return in advance
- •Madrid city center is 50 km away (45 minutes via A-1 and M-611)
Gear for Cross de Cuerda Larga
GearMountain traverse above 2,000 m average altitude in May. Ridge terrain with granite rock and high mountain paths, generally very runnable.
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 Soft Flask 250 ml
Collapsible 250 ml soft flask with a high-flow valve and a wide 42 mm mouth for fast refills at aid stations. It shrinks as you drink, fits the front pocket of any vest and weighs just a few grams empty.
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.
Tips
- •Trail shoes with good grip: ridge terrain with rock and gravel
- •Hydration vest or lightweight pack for the 26 km
- •May at 2,000 m can be cold: bring a windbreaker or rain jacket
- •The organization may require extra gear depending on weather
Which shoes for Cross de Cuerda Larga?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for Cross de Cuerda Larga?
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.
Nutrition for Cross de Cuerda Larga
Nutrition26 km traverse with aid stations on course. Each runner should assess their additional nutritional needs based on the distance between stations.
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.
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.
226ERS
226ERS Sub9 Salts Electrolytes
Mineral salt capsules with 250 mg of sodium each, plus potassium, magnesium and ginger extract for better digestive tolerance. The highest sodium per capsule from Spain's benchmark endurance brand. Zero calories: you replace salts without touching your gel plan.
Tips
- •Aid stations on course with water and isotonic drink
- •No cups provided: bring your own collapsible cup or bottle
- •Carry extra gels or bars for the long ridge sections
- •Plan your nutrition for an estimated 3-4 hours of racing
How to get to Miraflores de la Sierra
TransportMiraflores de la Sierra is in Madrid's northern sierra, well connected by road. The finish is at Puerto de Navacerrada, with a return bus provided.
Browse all transportTips
- •From Madrid: 50 km via A-1 and M-611 (45 minutes)
- •Point-to-point race: return bus from Navacerrada to Miraflores
- •Parking available in Miraflores de la Sierra
- •Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) is 65 km away
Car rental for Cross de Cuerda Larga
Car RentalA car is the most practical option to reach Miraflores de la Sierra, as public transport is limited.
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.
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.
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
- •Essential if coming from outside Madrid: public transport to Miraflores is limited
- •Great for exploring the sierra over the weekend: La Pedriza, Peñalara, Manzanares el Real
Sports insurance for Cross de Cuerda Larga
InsuranceMountain federation membership (FEDME) is mandatory, which includes federation insurance. Registration includes additional race insurance.
Browse all insuranceTips
- •FEDME license mandatory: includes mountain accident insurance
- •Registration includes liability insurance for the race
- •Medical service available during the race
Body care for Cross de Cuerda Larga
Body Care26 km mountain traverse with 1,500 m elevation gain. High-altitude ridge terrain that demands good preparation.
Compeed
Compeed Ampollas Medianas Duplo
Hydrocolloid blister plasters for medium blisters. Instant pain relief, protect the blister while it heals and stay in place for hours even with sweat. Pack of 10 individually wrapped plasters, ideal for carrying in a trail running vest.
BodyGlide
BodyGlide Original Anti-Chafe Balm
Anti-chafe balm in stick format. Creates an invisible barrier on the skin that reduces friction without clogging pores. Sweat-resistant, ideal for critical zones like inner thighs, armpits, and nipples on long races.
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.
Tips
- •Quality trail socks to prevent blisters on mountain terrain
- •Anti-chafe balm on friction areas
- •Protect your feet: 26 km of ridge with rock and gravel
Sun protection for Cross de Cuerda Larga
Sun ProtectionDaytime May race with the entire ridge above 2,000 m. High sun exposure with no shade for hours.
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.
Tips
- •Apply sunscreen before the start: the Cuerda Larga ridge has no shade
- •Cap or visor essential: several hours above 2,000 m
- •May sun is strong at altitude: reapply at aid stations
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 Cross de Cuerda Larga 2026?
- The 38th edition of Cross de Cuerda Larga takes place on Sunday, May 31, 2026, starting at 9:00 AM from Miraflores de la Sierra.
- What is the Cross de Cuerda Larga route?
- It starts from Miraflores de la Sierra, climbs to Puerto de la Morcuera and follows the entire Cuerda Larga ridge through Bailanderos (2,133 m), Asómate de Hoyos (2,242 m), Cabeza de Hierro Mayor (2,383 m), Cerro de Valdemartín (2,283 m) and Alto de Guarramillas (2,265 m), finishing at Puerto de Navacerrada.
- How much does Cross de Cuerda Larga registration cost?
- Approximately €20. Registration is managed through the Copa de Hierro website (copadehierro.es). Mountain federation membership (FEDME) is mandatory to participate.
- How many spots are available?
- 400 bibs. Participation is limited by Sierra de Guadarrama National Park regulations. Spots tend to sell out quickly.
- What is the time limit?
- 6 hours to complete the 26 km. The race runs mostly above 2,000 m altitude, with very runnable terrain but continuous ascents and descents.
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