Accommodation

Hotel vs Camping vs Motorhome vs Camper Van vs Airbnb

Hotel: Total comfort, but not always close to the start. Ideal if travelling with family or you want post-race recovery with a spa. Look for hotels that allow early departure (many races start at 6-7 AM).

Camping: Budget-friendly option and often right at the race venue. Perfect for the trail runner atmosphere and immediate access to the start. Bring an inflatable pad, compact sleeping bag and eye mask if there's noise.

Motorhome: Maximum autonomy and flexibility. Sleep in the race parking area with your logistics base at hand. Check that the organisation allows overnight parking in the area.

Camper van: Like a motorhome but more discreet and manoeuvrable. Ideal for races in small mountain villages. Bring a pad and sleeping bag if you don't have a fixed bed.

Airbnb / Apartment: Midway between hotel and camping. More space, your own kitchen (useful for specific diets) and usually cheaper than a hotel. Look for places near the start or with parking.

How many nights before the race?

Ideally, arrive at least the day before to pick up your bib, attend the briefing and acclimatise. For high-altitude mountain races (Sierra Nevada, Picos de Europa), consider arriving 2-3 days early to adapt.

After the race, especially if it's an ultra, stay at least one extra night to recover. Driving 4 hours after 50 km of elevation is not a good idea. Take the chance to explore locally and stretch properly.

Near the start or the finish?

Circular races: Start and finish are in the same place. Easy: book near that point and you're all set.

Point-to-point races: This requires planning. Example: Transgrancanaria starts in Agaete and finishes in Maspalomas (125 km). If you stay in Agaete, you need transport to the finish to pick up your car. If you stay in Maspalomas, you need transport to the start. Many organisers offer shuttle buses, but check before booking.

When to book? Peak season and deadlines

Book months in advance if the race coincides with peak tourist season. Examples: Canary Islands in February (Transgrancanaria, Tenerife Bluetrail), Mediterranean coast in summer, Pyrenees in July-August.

In small mountain villages (Zubiri for Nafarroa Xtrem, Sedano for Haciendo Sed Burgos), supply is limited even outside tourist season. Book as soon as you register.

Cancellation policies: Essential for lottery races (Ultra Pirineu, Penyagolosa). Book with free cancellation until you confirm your spot. Booking.com and Airbnb usually offer this option.