The Salomon Run Barcelona 2026 returns on April 11 with a format that pushes the limits of urban running. With 10K, 5K, Vertical Run and Family Run categories, the race invites you to discover the hidden corners of Montjuïc, combining stairs, dirt trails and panoramic views of the city and the sea. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about the 2026 edition, how to prepare for it and why this race has become a must for running enthusiasts.
Date, distances and categories
The 2026 edition will take place on Saturday, April 11 and offers several distances so every runner can find their challenge. The main race is the 10K, featuring a course with around 300 metres of elevation gain. There is also a 5K ideal for those new to urban trail running, a family-friendly 5K to enjoy with children and the spectacular Salomon Vertical Run, a time trial that tackles Montjuïc’s stairways.
Registrations are open from December 2025 until April 8, 2026, with approximate prices of €18 for the 10K, €15 for the 5K and €13 for the family race. If you’re looking for a fast 10K in Barcelona to complete your calendar, check out our recap of the Cursa Moritz Sant Antoni 2026.
Course and Montjuïc experience
The Salomon Run Barcelona course is as diverse as Montjuïc itself. The start and finish are located at Plaça Puig i Cadafalch, next to the Magic Fountain, and from there runners take on a route that combines asphalt sections, dirt trails and numerous stair climbs.
You’ll pass iconic landmarks such as the Olympic Ring, the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys and the surrounding gardens, all while enjoying stunning views of Barcelona’s skyline and the Mediterranean Sea. The constant ups and downs allow you to explore lesser-known parts of the hill and understand why this race is considered one of the most unique events in the city’s running calendar.
How to train for stairs and elevation
Taking on a race with stairs and elevation requires specific preparation. Incorporating hill workouts and stair repetitions will strengthen your legs, improve your technique and boost your cardiovascular capacity. Research shows that regular hill training can improve both speed and endurance.
Try the following sessions progressively:
- Short hill repeats: 6–10 repetitions of 30 seconds on 10–20% gradients at high intensity, recovering on the way down. Builds power and stride efficiency.
- Hill endurance sessions: 2–3 minute climbs at a strong effort (70–80%) followed by easy descents. Improves endurance on rolling terrain.
- Stair training: run up stairs with short, explosive steps to simulate the Vertical Run; walk or jog down to recover.
Combine these sessions with easy runs and strength training to balance the load. If you train with the SnapRace app, you can track elevation, schedule hill workouts and monitor your progress.
Practical information for runners
Beyond the sporting challenge, the organisation takes care of runners with services included in the registration: chip timing bib, hydration stations, medical assistance, toilets and a commemorative gift. The 5K starts at 9:00 a.m. and the 10K at 9:30 a.m.
Public transport is highly recommended: metro lines L1, L3 and L8 stop at Espanya, just a few minutes from the start area. There will also be a bag drop service and designated areas for spectators. Check the official Salomon Run Barcelona website for updated schedules and registration details.
Why you shouldn’t miss Salomon Run Barcelona 2026
The Salomon Run Barcelona offers much more than kilometres: it’s an experience that blends sport, tourism and urban nature. Whether you’re aiming to push your limits in the 10K, take on the vertical challenge or enjoy a family run, there’s something for everyone.
Its demanding course and spectacular views make it one of the most original races in Spain. Training for it will also help you improve your technique, mental strength and aerobic capacity.
If you want to track your training and progress, download SnapRace: the app helps you plan your runs, monitor elevation and share your results with the community. Ready for the challenge? See you in Montjuïc on April 11!