Looking for a Trail Race Near Porto? Discover Trail Quinta das Arcas 2026

Paula Veloso
by Paula Veloso
14 minutes ago

Looking for trail running near Porto before the 2026 season comes to an end?

On 29 November 2026, runners will head to Sobrado, Valongo, for the 10th Trail Quinta das Arcas, an event combining competitive trail running, a shorter race option and a recreational walk — all within easy reach of Porto.

With approximately 20 km and 12 km trail races, plus a 12 km walk, this is a late-season event that works for experienced trail runners, athletes looking to move from road running to the trails, and anyone simply looking for another outdoor challenge before the end of the year.

And this year, you can register directly through RaceFinder.

👉 Register for Trail Quinta das Arcas 2026 on RaceFinder

Trail running in Valongo: just outside Porto

Valongo has become one of the most recognizable trail-running areas around Porto, with a calendar that brings runners back to the region throughout the year.

For Trail Quinta das Arcas, both the start and finish are located at Quinta das Arcas in Sobrado, with the routes taking runners through trails and paths around Campo and Sobrado.

That location makes the race especially interesting for runners searching for a trail event near Porto without having to plan a full weekend away.

It is also part of the Valongo Trails Circuit, meaning results from the competitive races contribute towards the municipal ranking.

Which distance should you choose?

One of the strengths of Trail Quinta das Arcas is that you do not need to be an ultra runner to take part.

20 km Trail

The main event covers approximately 20 km and starts at 09:00.

It is the longest competitive option of the day and is open to participants aged 18 and over. Runners have a maximum of four hours to complete the race.

For anyone looking for a substantial Sunday trail without stepping into ultra-distance territory, 20 km offers a good middle ground.

👉 Book the 20 km Trail

12 km Mini Trail

Prefer something shorter?

The 12 km Mini Trail starts at 09:30 and is also competitive. Participation is open from age 16, making it a more accessible introduction to trail racing or a good option for runners who prefer shorter, faster events.

👉 Book the 12 km Mini Trail

12 km Walk

There is also a non-competitive 12 km walk, starting after the Mini Trail.

This makes the event suitable for groups where not everyone wants to race. Minors can also participate in the walk when accompanied by an adult.

More than 2,000 available places across the event

Trail Quinta das Arcas has capacity for up to 2,000 participants across its three formats:

  • 500 places for the 20 km Trail
  • 750 places for the 12 km Mini Trail
  • 750 places for the 12 km Walk

The official registration deadline is 21 November 2026, although late registrations may be possible if places remain.

If the race is already part of your November plans, registering earlier removes one thing from the pre-race checklist.

👉 Secure your place through RaceFinder

What do you need to carry?

Trail Quinta das Arcas is run in semi-autonomous conditions, so there are several items participants need to bring.

Mandatory equipment includes a working mobile phone, whistle, emergency blanket, water container and personal cup. Disposable cups will not be provided at aid stations.

The reusable-cup requirement is worth remembering in particular. It is one of those small details that is easy to forget when preparing your race kit the night before.

Aid-station locations and the final elevation profiles are expected to be published closer to race day.

Why race in late November?

November trail races offer something different from the heat and dry terrain of the summer calendar.

They can also serve several purposes depending on your season: one final competitive goal, a transition from road running into trail, preparation for winter events, or simply an excuse to keep training consistently once the major autumn races are over.

And if Trail Quinta das Arcas leaves you wanting another race in the area, you will not have to wait long.

The Valongo Night Trail 2026 takes place on 12 December, with 21 km and 13 km trail options and a 9 km walk. It is also part of the Valongo trail calendar.

👉 Discover the Valongo Night Trail on RaceFinder

This kind of internal link is especially useful here because we start building a Valongo / Porto trail-running content cluster, instead of each event page existing in isolation.

Trail Quinta das Arcas 2026: quick race guide

Date: 29 November 2026
Location: Quinta das Arcas, Sobrado, Valongo
Main Trail: approximately 20 km
Mini Trail: approximately 12 km
Walk: approximately 12 km
20 km start: 09:00
12 km Mini Trail start: 09:30
Registration deadline: 21 November 2026
Timing: Portimer
Circuit: Valongo Trails Circuit
Registration: Available directly through RaceFinder

👉 View distances, prices and register for Trail Quinta das Arcas 2026

Frequently asked questions about Trail Quinta das Arcas

When is Trail Quinta das Arcas 2026?

The 10th Trail Quinta das Arcas takes place on Sunday, 29 November 2026 in Sobrado, Valongo.

How far is Trail Quinta das Arcas?

There are three options: an approximately 20 km competitive Trail, a 12 km competitive Mini Trail and a 12 km non-competitive walk.

Where is Trail Quinta das Arcas?

The start and finish are located at Quinta das Arcas in Sobrado, Valongo, in the Porto district.

Can beginners participate?

Runners who do not want to take on the 20 km distance can choose the shorter 12 km Mini Trail, while those looking for a non-competitive experience can join the 12 km walk.

Where can I register for Trail Quinta das Arcas 2026?

Official registration is available directly through RaceFinder.

👉 Register now for Trail Quinta das Arcas 2026

One more trail before the year ends

You do not have to wait until January to choose your next challenge.

If you are searching for trail running near Porto, Trail Quinta das Arcas offers a convenient late-November date, two competitive distances, a walking option and the trails of Valongo — all before the 2026 calendar comes to an end.

Whether you choose 12 km or 20 km, there is still time for one more start line.

Ready?

Or explore more upcoming events:

👉 Find trail running races and other events on RaceFinder

More from the blog

Musings on swimming, running and riding for everyday athletes.

7 Running Races in Portugal to Finish 2026 Strong
18 Sep 2026

7 Running Races in Portugal to Finish 2026 Strong

Summer may be over, but the running season certainly is not. From October through December, the calendar is still packed with running races in Portugal, ranging from fast road 10Ks and half marathons to mountain races and long trail challenges. So if you still have room for one more goal before turning your attention to […]

Read More
5 Granfondos in Portugal to Add to Your Cycling Calendar
17 Sep 2026

5 Granfondos in Portugal to Add to Your Cycling Calendar

There is a big difference between simply going out for a ride and having a race on the calendar that gives every training session a purpose. That is part of what makes Granfondos in Portugal so appealing. They provide a clear goal to work towards while taking cyclists through some of the country’s most impressive […]

Read More
How Far Can You Go? Ultra Trails and Backyard Ultras in Portugal
16 Sep 2026

How Far Can You Go? Ultra Trails and Backyard Ultras in Portugal

Some races have you counting down the kilometres to the finish. Others have you counting the climbs still ahead. And then there is a format where you return to the start, rest for a few minutes and do it all again — without knowing when it will end. For runners looking for a demanding challenge, […]

Read More
10K, Plenty of Reasons to Run: Races in Portugal This October and November
15 Sep 2026

10K, Plenty of Reasons to Run: Races in Portugal This October and November

A first finish line. A faster time. A Sunday morning with your running club. Everyone arrives at a 10K with a different reason to run. That is what makes the distance so appealing. You can build a season around improving your time, choose an event with friends, or use race day to give your weekly […]

Read More