{"id":3038,"date":"2026-04-10T09:45:37","date_gmt":"2026-04-10T07:45:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/snaprace.app\/blog\/?p=3038"},"modified":"2026-04-10T09:47:18","modified_gmt":"2026-04-10T07:47:18","slug":"penyagolosa-trails-2026-dates-course-favourites-training-tips-mim-csp","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/snaprace.app\/blog\/en\/penyagolosa-trails-2026-dates-course-favourites-training-tips-mim-csp\/","title":{"rendered":"Penyagolosa Trails 2026: dates, course, favourites and training tips for the MiM and CSP"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Penyagolosa Trails 2026<\/strong> is one of Spain\u2019s most iconic trail running events. On Saturday, 18 April 2026, Castell\u00f3n province will once again host the classic MiM 60 km<\/a> and the demanding CSP 106 km<\/a>. The race connects the city of Castell\u00f3n with the Sant Joan de Penyagolosa sanctuary and brings together thousands of runners, volunteers and fans from around the world. In this guide, you\u2019ll find everything you need to know: history, course details, key athletes and practical training tips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A race that connects Castell\u00f3n with its most iconic peak<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The MiM<\/strong> (Marat\u00f3 i Mitja) was established in 1999 as a 60-kilometre mountain race from Castell\u00f3n to the Sant Joan de Penyagolosa sanctuary. Since then, it has become a benchmark in Spanish trail running. In 2012, the CSP was introduced: a 106 km ultra-distance race<\/strong> with 5,600 metres of elevation gain, following historic trails across the province.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Both races attract elite and amateur runners alike, and their success lies in the combination of tradition, physical challenge and spectacular landscapes. Local authorities highlight the event\u2019s role in promoting Castell\u00f3n internationally and boosting sports tourism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

MiM and CSP 2026 courses<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The MiM 2026<\/strong> stays true to its roots: 60 km with approximately 3,300 metres of elevation gain. The race starts at Jaume I University in Castell\u00f3n and climbs through areas such as the Desierto de las Palmas and the forests of Xodos before reaching the iconic Sant Joan de Penyagolosa sanctuary at 1,280 metres above sea level. The route combines technical trails with more runnable sections, offering a diverse and memorable experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The CSP<\/strong> (Castell\u00f3 \u2013 Sant Joan de Penyagolosa) is the more demanding distance: 106 km with 5,600 metres of elevation gain. It starts from Castell\u00f3n\u2019s bullring and crosses mountain areas such as Borriol, Vilafam\u00e9s and Benafigos before joining the MiM course at kilometre 60. It is a true ultra trail<\/em> race, with a strict 24-hour cut-off time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Top contenders and international field<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The 2026 edition will feature a highly competitive field. In the MiM<\/strong>, defending champion Jos\u00e9 \u00c1ngel Canales<\/strong> will face runners such as Marc Bernad\u00e8s<\/strong>, Dakota Jones<\/strong> and Leonard Mitrica<\/strong>. In the women\u2019s race, In\u00e9s Astrain<\/strong> will defend her title against athletes like Gemma Arenas<\/strong> and Azara Garc\u00eda<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The CSP<\/strong> is also expected to feature strong international participation alongside local athletes aiming for the podium. The growing presence of runners from Europe and the Americas confirms Penyagolosa Trails as a key event on the global trail running calendar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The volunteers: the backbone of the race<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

One of the foundations of the event is its team of around 800 volunteers<\/strong>, drawn from local clubs and associations. They are responsible for course marking, aid stations, checkpoints and runner support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition, local communities along the route actively support the event, creating a unique atmosphere that reinforces its strong community spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sustainability and natural environment<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Penyagolosa Trails is committed to environmental sustainability. The course runs through protected natural areas, and specific measures are implemented to minimise impact, including waste management and environmental awareness initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The race also highlights the region\u2019s cultural heritage, passing historic buildings, rural landscapes and traditional paths that form part of Castell\u00f3n\u2019s identity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Training tips for the MiM and CSP<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Preparing for races with significant elevation gain requires a targeted approach. Incorporate hill training<\/a> to build climbing strength and improve downhill technique, alongside muscular endurance work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n