Sierra Blanca Trail 2026, also known as CXM Sierra Blanca, is one of the most eagerly anticipated trail races on Spain’s calendar. In mid‑February hundreds of runners descend on Marbella to tackle a rugged mountain range that demands both physical endurance and mental grit. This post provides everything you need to know about the race – from course details and kit requirements to training tips and logistics – so you can make the most of this challenging adventure.
A unique setting: the history of the Sierra Blanca
The Sierra Blanca rises above Spain’s Costa del Sol and forms part of the Penibaetic mountain system. Its highest summit, Pico del Lastonar, reaches roughly 1,275 metres, and the range takes its name from the pale limestone that punctuates the lush stands of Spanish firs. Panoramic views of the Mediterranean accompany steep climbs and rocky paths, making the area a playground for hikers and trail runners. February’s mild climate means you can race without the oppressive heat of summer.
Race options and routes at Sierra Blanca Trail 2026
The event offers four categories to suit different abilities. All start from Marbella’s Paseo Marítimo (Calle Rafael Zea, 17C) on 14 February 2026 and share a mountain‑first philosophy. The options are:
- Destroyer (≃43 km, 98 % trail) – starts at 8:00. This is a true mountain marathon with relentless elevation changes. Runners climb to Puerto Rico Alto and descend through loose rock. Aid stations at La Mina (km 7.5), Ojén (km 13.8) and Puerto de Marbella (km 31.7) provide hydration, food and medical support. The time limit is 10 hours.
- Rompepiernas (≃30 km, 96 % trail) – starts at 9:00. It shares the first 13.8 km with the Destroyer before splitting towards Cerezal. Highlights include the ascent to Puerto de Marbella (km 18.75) and a technical descent towards Puerto Rico Alto (km 24.4). You have 9 hours to finish.
- Trampantojo (≃12 km, 94 % trail) – starts at 10:00. This shorter course is ideal for newcomers to mountain running yet still captures the rugged spirit of the region. After passing Xarblanca (km 3.3) and Los Gitanos (km 6) it offers a descent with stream crossings and safety chains. The cutoff is 4 hours.
- Hiking (≃12 km) – starts at 10:00. Geared towards walkers aged ten and above, it follows the Trampantojo route at a gentler pace. Finish within 6 hours to claim your medal.
All categories finish at Parque Vigil de Quiñones, where showers, massages and a communal meal await. Every participant receives a finisher medal and a race pack containing a timing chip, personalised bib, digital certificate and various gifts.
Registration and bib collection
Registration is handled online and operates on a tiered pricing structure. For example, the Destroyer costs €46 until 31 October, €50 until 30 November and €54 until 31 January; the other races follow similar deadlines. Runners living in Marbella must collect their bibs on Friday 13 February between 16:00 and 20:00 at Plaza del Mar. Everyone else can collect theirs on race day: 6:30–7:30 for the Destroyer, 7:30–8:30 for the Rompepiernas and 8:30–9:30 for the Trampantojo and Hiking.
Participants must turn 18 in 2026 (the Hiking category accepts entrants from age ten). For details on cancellations or transfers, consult the official rules on the event website.
Mandatory equipment and recommendations
Technical terrain and unpredictable weather mean that safety gear is non‑negotiable. The required kit varies by category:
- Trampantojo and Hiking: a hooded windbreaker, thermal blanket, water container (≥0.5 L) or collapsible cup, fully charged phone with the event’s SOS app, a hat, whistle and your bib visible at all times.
- Rompepiernas and Destroyer: in addition to the above, knee‑length trousers, a waterproof jacket if rain is forecast, a water container of at least 1 L and the GPS track loaded on your watch or phone. Collapsible poles and gloves are strongly recommended.
- Suggested extras: lightweight gloves, a headlamp (mandatory for the Destroyer if you expect to finish after dusk), a secondary GPS or compass and trail shoes with excellent grip.
Runners benefit from seven aid stations on the Destroyer, four on the Rompepiernas and three on the Trampantojo/Hiking. Lactose‑ and gluten‑free options are available on request. Your entry also includes accident insurance, bag drop, and a post‑race concert.
Training for Sierra Blanca: practical tips
Tackling a mountain race requires more than mileage on flat roads. Here’s how to prepare for the Sierra Blanca Trail:
- Strength and plyometrics: incorporate squats, lunges, jumps and core work to improve running economy and maintain form during prolonged climbs. Sessions like these help you become more efficient.
- Downhill technique: practise technical descents on steep trails. Focus on quick, short steps, looking ahead and using your arms for balance.
- Power‑based sessions: hill repeats and short controlled intervals teach you to manage effort on climbs. Running power is a useful tool for gauging intensity; check out our guide to training with watts for more details.
- Cross‑training: complement your running with cycling, hiking or swimming to build strength without excessive impact.
- Fuel and hydration: test your nutrition strategy on long runs. Carry energy bars, gels and electrolytes, drink before you feel thirsty and eat before you’re hungry.
A six‑ to eight‑week programme that blends long trail runs, gym workouts and technique drills will get you to Marbella in peak condition. Whenever possible, train on terrain with similar gradients and technical features to the Sierra Blanca so you’re familiar with the demands on race day.
SnapRace: your route companion in the Sierra Blanca
Planning and navigating a technical course can be daunting. The SnapRace app streamlines the process by offering turn‑by‑turn guidance, live leaderboards and adaptive training plans. With SnapRace you can:
- Create and load the full track for the Destroyer, Rompepiernas or Trampantojo and receive visual and audio instructions while training or racing.
- Compete virtually with other runners on the Sierra Blanca segments and see your position on live leaderboards.
- Get a personalised training plan based on your availability and goals, with weekly adjustments as you progress.
- Synchronise your data between iPhone and Apple Watch, receive wrist‑tap alerts and review your performance when you finish. To discover everything SnapRace offers, check out our article about the SnapRace app.
Using SnapRace to prepare for the Sierra Blanca Trail helps you optimise each session, control intensity and enjoy the route without worry. You can compare your times with the community and share your achievements.
Final thoughts: embrace the Sierra Blanca adventure
Sierra Blanca Trail 2026 is more than a race; it’s an adventure that combines nature, endurance and camaraderie. Whether you choose the punishing Destroyer, the demanding Rompepiernas, the dynamic Trampantojo or the relaxed Hiking category, the event allows you to experience one of the Costa del Sol’s gems from a unique perspective. With the right preparation, proper kit and support from tools like SnapRace, you’ll be ready to savour every kilometre and cross the finish line smiling. Are you ready to conquer the Sierra Blanca?