MessengerUltra Way of the Pilgrim 2026
Event summary
The Ultra Caminho do Peregrino 2026 is an extreme endurance trail running event taking place from September 4 to 6, 2026. The race covers approximately 188 km along the Central Portuguese Way, from Barcelos, Portugal, to Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
This non-stop semi-autonomous race challenges athletes with mixed terrain, significant elevation changes, and variable weather conditions. Participation is limited to adults over 18 years old, with a maximum of 30 athletes and a minimum of 20 required for the event to proceed.
The route passes through historic cities and villages, offering rich spiritual and cultural landscapes. The event emphasizes respect for the environment and the heritage of the Camino, with strict rules on conduct and environmental responsibility.
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Plan itInformation
Age categories/divisions: Only athletes aged 18 years or older
Start/finish locations: Start in Barcelos (Portugal), finish in Santiago de Compostela (Spain)
Start times per category/distance: September 4, 2026, 10:00 AM start
Cut-off times:
• Valença – Saturday 02:00 (16 hours of race)
• Pontevedra – Saturday 17:00 (31 hours of race)
• Total race time limit: 48 hours
Bib pick-up time and location: September 4, 2026, 08:00 at Avenida da Liberdade, Barcelos
Participants limit: Maximum 30 athletes, minimum 20 to hold event
Registration deadline: August 23, 2026, or when maximum participants reached
Surface types: Mixed terrain with technical trails, variable weather conditions
Course format: Non-stop semi-autonomous ultra trail along the Central Portuguese Way
Race routes: Approximately 188 km from Barcelos to Santiago de Compostela via Ponte de Lima, Valença, O Porriño, Redondela, Pontevedra, Caldas de Reis, Padrón
Timing method: Chip in bib or GPS tracking device provided by organization
Toilets and aid station placement: Aid stations with solid and liquid supplies at cities and strategic points
Parking and shuttle details: Transport from Santiago de Compostela to Barcelos after race finish, organized according to arrival times
Drop bag policy: Two drop bags allowed (max 3kg each) for Valença (km 67) and Pontevedra (km 123), to be delivered before race start
Prizes: Finisher medal and kit included in registration
Location
get directionsRaces
Ultra Marathon 188 km
Benefits
🎽 Athlete kit: bib, t-shirt, event-related gifts, GPS tracking device
🏅 Finisher prize: medal and finisher kit
⏱️ Timing + live GPS tracking and monitoring
🛟 Safety support: nursing assistance at aid stations
🛡️ Insurance: personal accident and liability insurance included
🥤 Aid stations: solid and liquid nutrition including fruits, snacks, drinks at multiple points
🚿 Showers, massages, and rest areas available
🧳 Drop-bag transport to Valença and Pontevedra
🚌 Transport from finish line back to start area organized by arrival times