The year is almost over, but Portugal’s running calendar still has plenty to offer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you think it’s too late to set yourself a new sporting goal, we have good news: November and December still offer exciting opportunities to run, discover new routes and finish 2026 with another achievement.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n And we’re not just talking about the traditional S\u00e3o Silvestre races.<\/p>\n\n\n\n From road races and scenic trails to ultra-endurance challenges and skyrunning events, there’s something for runners with different interests and experience levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We’ve selected seven running races in Portugal taking place in November and December 2026<\/strong>, with registration options directly through RaceFinder, to help you find your next challenge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We often associate new fitness goals with January. Starting to run, improving your 10K time or preparing for a half marathon are some of the most common New Year’s resolutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But you don’t have to wait until January to set a new goal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Having a race on your calendar can be a great way to stay motivated and consistent with your training during the colder months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Participating in a race before December ends also gives you an opportunity to reflect on your progress throughout 2026 and identify realistic goals for the next season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You don’t necessarily need to chase a personal best. You might simply want to explore a new route, try a different type of race or enjoy a running event with friends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The important thing is finding a challenge that feels right for you.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n November 14, 2026 | 10 km Trail Run<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n If you enjoy smaller races with a more relaxed atmosphere, the 101 Autumn Run deserves a place on your calendar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Held at Monverde Hotel & Spa in Tel\u00f5es, Amarante, this trail running event features an unusual format: three laps of an approximately 3.35 km circuit, covering a total distance of around 10 km.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The event is limited to just 101 participants, creating a more intimate experience than most large road races.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It’s an opportunity to run surrounded by nature, following trails and paths through the local landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The race includes official timing and a finisher medal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Who is it for?<\/strong> Runners looking for a shorter trail experience who prefer smaller, more personal events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Explore the 101 Autumn Run and register on RaceFinder<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n November 14, 2026 | Backyard Ultra and 10-Lap Challenge<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n What if your next running challenge wasn’t about covering a fixed distance, but discovering how many laps you could complete?<\/p>\n\n\n\n That’s the idea behind the Benqueren\u00e7as Backyard Ultra.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The backyard format requires participants to complete a 6.706 km loop within one hour. At the beginning of every new hour, runners start another lap.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the traditional format, the challenge continues until only one runner remains able to complete another lap.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The event also offers a 10-lap category, covering approximately 67 km.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Unlike conventional races, success depends not only on running pace but also on how effectively participants manage rest, nutrition and recovery between laps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Who is it for?<\/strong> Experienced endurance athletes looking for a different physical and mental challenge. This isn’t recommended as a first running event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Discover the Benqueren\u00e7as Backyard Ultra on RaceFinder<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n November 15, 2026 | 22 km Trail, 15 km Trail, Mini Trail and Walk<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n For runners who prefer mountain paths to paved roads, Trail do M\u00edscaro offers several ways to explore Aguiar da Beira, in Portugal’s Guarda district.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The event includes four main options:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The courses follow natural trails, featuring elevation changes and some technically demanding sections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The event also emphasises the social side of running, with activities and a communal meal associated with the race.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For runners accustomed to road running, the Mini Trail could be an interesting option, provided they have suitable preparation for the terrain and elevation gain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Who is it for?<\/strong> Runners looking to explore Portugal’s inland trails while choosing from different distances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Explore Trail do M\u00edscaro on RaceFinder<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n November 21, 2026 | 31 km, 16 km, 10 km and Walking Route<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The Serra de Sic\u00f3 welcomes runners once again for another edition of Trail da Escarpiada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Held in Casmilo, in the municipality of Condeixa-a-Nova, the event offers several distances for athletes with different experience levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Long Trail covers approximately 31 km, while the Short Trail is around 16 km. There’s also a 10 km Mini Trail and an approximately 8.5 km walking route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Participants can discover an area known for its limestone formations, rural paths and impressive natural scenery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, distance doesn’t tell the whole story. Elevation gain and technical terrain can make a 10 km trail considerably more demanding than a road race of the same distance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Who is it for?<\/strong> Runners interested in mountain trails and participants looking for different race distances or a walking experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Discover VI Trail da Escarpiada on RaceFinder<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n November 29, 2026 | 10 km and 15 km Road Races, Walk and Youth Events<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Not every running challenge needs to involve mountains or extreme distances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For those who prefer road running, Grande Pr\u00e9mio de Atletismo de Mendiga is an event worth considering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Its 38th edition takes place in Mendiga, in the municipality of Porto de M\u00f3s, maintaining a strong connection with the local community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The programme includes 10 km and 15 km races, youth events for different age groups and a non-competitive 5 km countryside walk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For runners looking to work on their speed or evaluate improvements in their road running pace, the competitive distances provide a useful opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The youth races and walking event also make it possible for family members and friends to participate, even when they have different goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Who is it for?<\/strong> Road runners, athletics club members, young athletes and participants interested in an event with different activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Explore Grande Pr\u00e9mio de Mendiga on RaceFinder<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n December 11, 2026 | 7 km Race and 4 km Walk<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n S\u00e3o Silvestre races are one of Portugal’s most popular year-end running traditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But not every S\u00e3o Silvestre follows the usual 10 km format.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In Vendas Novas, in the \u00c9vora district, the 12th edition features a competitive 7 km road race and a non-competitive 4 km walk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The event takes place in the evening, starting near the Vendas Novas Municipal Stadium and offering a festive end-of-year atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The 7 km distance may be particularly appealing to runners who already complete 5 km regularly and want to try a slightly longer competitive event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Meanwhile, the walking option allows participants to enjoy the experience without the pressure of a competitive result.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Who is it for?<\/strong> Runners looking for a distance between 5 km and 10 km, as well as anyone interested in an active end-of-year event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Register for S\u00e3o Silvestre de Vendas Novas through RaceFinder<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n December 20, 2026 | 22 km and 13 km Skyrunning Races<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n For athletes looking to end the year with a serious mountain challenge, Kiaius Sky Race is one of the most demanding events on this list.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Held in the Praia de Quiaios area of Figueira da Foz, the event features two main distances:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The longer race is part of the National and Central-Southern Skyrunning Championships, while the 13 km distance is associated with the National SkySprint Trophy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Skyrunning demands more than cardiovascular endurance. Steep climbs, technical descents and uneven terrain make pacing and effort management particularly important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even the shorter 13 km option represents a significant challenge because of the accumulated elevation gain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Who is it for?<\/strong> Athletes experienced in mountain running, with good physical preparation and familiarity with technical terrain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Discover Kiaius Sky Race on RaceFinder<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n With so many options available, your choice should depend more on your preparation and goals than on how popular an event is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Look for a race with a familiar distance and suitable conditions for managing your pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Grande Pr\u00e9mio de Mendiga, with its 10 km and 15 km courses, could be interesting for runners aiming for a competitive performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n S\u00e3o Silvestre de Vendas Novas offers an alternative 7 km distance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Trail running can be an excellent way to introduce variety into your usual training routine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The 101 Autumn Run, Trail do M\u00edscaro and Trail da Escarpiada offer different experiences, but it’s important to review the terrain and elevation profile before choosing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Benqueren\u00e7as Backyard Ultra offers a format where managing effort and recovery plays a central role.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Kiaius Sky Race adds the challenge of steep climbs and technical mountain terrain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Both are better suited to athletes with specific preparation and previous experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The walking options included in several events allow participants to enjoy the atmosphere of an organised race without necessarily running or competing for a result.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This can be a good alternative for people starting their fitness journey or those who want to participate alongside family and friends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n November and December races come with a few particular challenges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In Portugal, temperatures can be lower, daylight hours are shorter and the possibility of rain requires some additional planning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To arrive at the starting line feeling prepared, consider these recommendations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Adjust your warm-up.<\/strong> On cold days, begin with progressive movements and avoid immediately starting at a high intensity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Choose suitable clothing.<\/strong> Wear breathable layers appropriate for the expected temperature and conditions. For mountain races, always check the mandatory equipment requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Don’t neglect hydration.<\/strong> Even when temperatures are lower, you still lose fluids during exercise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Train for the conditions you might encounter.<\/strong> If your race takes place on trails, include some training on similar terrain. For evening events, familiarise yourself with the equipment and reduced visibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Respect recovery.<\/strong> There’s no need to compensate for months of missed training in the final weeks before your race.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’ve already built a solid running base, an end-of-year race can be a great way to make the most of the fitness you’ve developed throughout the season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Finding and booking your next running event is simple.<\/p>\n\n\n\n1. Why Should You Run One More Race Before the End of the Year?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Seven Running Races in Portugal for November and December 2026<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
101 Autumn Run \u2014 Amarante<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Benqueren\u00e7as Backyard Ultra \u2014 Castelo Branco<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Trail do M\u00edscaro \u2014 Aguiar da Beira<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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VI Trail da Escarpiada \u2014 Condeixa-a-Nova<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
38th Grande Pr\u00e9mio de Atletismo de Mendiga \u2014 Porto de M\u00f3s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
12th S\u00e3o Silvestre de Vendas Novas \u2014 Vendas Novas<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2nd Kiaius Sky Race \u2014 Figueira da Foz<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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3. How to Choose the Right Race to Finish 2026<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If You Want to Improve Your Road Running Performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If You Want to Try Something Different<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If You’re Looking for an Endurance Challenge<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If You Prefer to Participate Without Competing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. How to Prepare for Running Races During the Colder Months<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5. How to Register for a Running Race Through RaceFinder<\/h3>\n\n\n\n