Ultramarathon and trail running on La Palma
Transvulcania: an island in motion
Transvulcania is La Palma’s best-known sporting event and one of the major international mountain races. For several days runners, support teams and spectators change the rhythm of the island. Its defining feature is not distance alone, but the direct journey from sea level through volcanic terrain and high mountains before returning to inhabited valleys.
The principal race is an ultramarathon of roughly 73 kilometres. Exact distance, elevation, cut-off times and route sections are defined in each edition’s regulations. Figures from older editions are therefore not always comparable, and the documents for the year of participation take precedence.
From the lighthouse to Los Llanos
The classic ultramarathon starts before dawn at the Fuencaliente lighthouse. From the Atlantic, the GR 131 climbs through young volcanic landscapes and the Volcano Route to Refugio El Pilar. A head torch, early-morning cold and the long first ascent make the challenge clear from the outset.
Beyond El Pilar, the route follows Cumbre Nueva and the heights of Caldera de Taburiente to Roque de los Muchachos above 2,400 metres. Heat, trade-wind cloud, strong wind and high-mountain weather may occur within a few hours. The long technical descent through the north-west demands as much strength and concentration as the climb.
After descending to Puerto de Tazacorte, the final climb leads through Barranco de Las Angustias and up to Los Llanos de Aridane. Coming after many hours on the course, this finish is one of its most notorious features. Spectators in the villages and at the finish are central to the event’s atmosphere.
Several distances, one demanding mountain
Alongside the ultramarathon, Transvulcania generally includes a marathon, half marathon and vertical kilometre, together with junior and inclusive events. Starts and routes differ: the half marathon traditionally links the Fuencaliente lighthouse with El Pilar, while the marathon connects the high ground with the island’s west side.
Even the shorter races are serious mountain events. Volcanic surfaces, major elevation change, steep descents and variable weather require specific training and mandatory equipment. Entry, regulations, kit, cut-offs and route changes are published only on the official Transvulcania website.
Places are limited and may sell out early. Travel and accommodation are best organised once the relevant edition’s entry conditions, start location, race-number collection and transport arrangements are known.
For additional coverage, the La Palma 24 Journal publishes Transvulcania news, results and stories about the event.
Reventón Trail El Paso
La Palma’s second major trail-running festival is Reventón Trail El Paso. Starts and finishes centre on El Paso, while its different routes cross pine forest, Cumbre Nueva and, depending on distance, highly demanding upland terrain. The event combines elite competition with shorter, inclusive and junior formats.
Distances and events also vary between editions. In 2026, for example, the Ultra Trail was around 70 kilometres, but only the current regulations should guide planning and training. Routes, entry and mandatory equipment are available from the official Reventón Trail website.
Training outside the race
Outside the event, a race route is neither continuously marked nor supplied. Anyone training on individual sections must plan them as self-supported mountain outings: check weather and trail status, carry water and food, set turn-back points and arrange the return journey. Mobile coverage is not guaranteed in ravines and forest.
More than 2,400 metres and several climate zones separate coast from summit. Sun protection by the sea, insulation and waterproofs at altitude, a head torch, first-aid kit and backup navigation may all be needed on the same day. After rain, wildfire risk or official closures, current notices take priority over GPX files.
Remain on authorised trails, avoid shortcuts and respect protected areas, farmland and other users. The emergency number in Spain is 112.