Running in Portugal

Useful information and race calendar (walking, road, trail) in Portugal
Photo credits:

Sean Pavone 2015

A land of explorers to be discovered

Open to the world and the Atlantic, Portugal is a charming country that will leave an unforgettable mark on you. From Porto to Lisbon down to Faro, the country thrives mainly along its Atlantic coast.

Portugal's history is rich and profound. The country emerged as one of the greatest European powers in the 15th century, largely thanks to its impressive fleet of ships. Its famous explorers ⛵️ brought the nation undeniable historical prestige. Vasco de Gama was the first European to reach India by sea (1498). Fernand de Magellan is said to have completed the first circumnavigation of the Earth (1519-1522), journeying through the south of Chile and Tierra del Fuego... An undoubtedly unforgettable moment in history! As a nation facing the Atlantic 💦, Portugal revolves around its capital Lisbon, and the economic hub of Porto. The two most significant cities in the country don't just compete in football! We won't pick sides between these two seaside cities here; to each their own 😁. What's certain is that both cities possess an incredible charm 😍! Of course, we invite you to discover, always in moderation, the Porto wine, which adorns the hills along the Douro River, a river that originates in Spain and flows into the Atlantic... at Porto. The north of the country is rather mountainous, while the center and south are more suited for agriculture, with vast expanses of plateaus and plains. There are also several notable island areas, including the Azores archipelago and the island of Pico, which is home to Portugal's highest peak ⛰, Punta do Pico (2351 meters). The country has a unique way of life, and its inhabitants have a great sense of hospitality... So, pastéis de nata or bacalhau? 😋 You'll decide on the spot!

Here you can find the entire calendar of races in Portugal. Whether it's trail running, hiking, half-marathon, or marathon, the homeland of Cristiano Ronaldo ⚽️ is generous, you will surely find your bliss. Road runners have already marked the Lisbon Marathon or the Lisbon Half-Marathon, races that allow you to combine athletic enjoyment with culinary pleasure. The capital's bay is eternal... Still in Lisbon, but this time on the trails along the Tagus River, the Ultra Marathon Caminhos Do Tejo offers its competitors two courses, both counting for the UTMB. Speaking of Cristiano? Fans, and there are many, can make a pilgrimage to Madeira Island, where the star grew up, and run the MIUT® - Madeira Island Ultra-Trail®. Expect beautiful seaside landscapes on this trail... Mountain lovers ⛰ can head inland to the Serra da Estrela massif. It is in this area that the aptly named race Oh Meu Deus (Oh My God) takes place. Will it be miraculous for you? Your result will tell us.

After all, there's more to Portugal than Fátima...

Should it rain or snow

Portuguese Running Events Calendar

Glance through the full calendar of road races, trails, and walking events in Portugal!
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The new generation platform that allows all runners, whatever their level, to (re)discover the French territory and heritage, by finding the races that suit them.