Estrela Grande Trail 2026
The 11th edition of the Estrela Grande Trail returns to Manteigas from May 8 to 10, 2026, featuring six trail running courses across Serra da Estrela. Over a thousand athletes have already confirmed their participation in this sporting event through stunning Natural Park landscapes.
The Estrela Grande Trail (EGT) is one of Portugal's most iconic trail running events, and its 11th edition takes place in Manteigas, in the heart of Serra da Estrela, from May 8 to 10, 2026. Co-organized by Estrela Outdoor Events and the Municipality of Manteigas, the event celebrates the natural beauty of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park and the UNESCO-recognized Estrela Geopark.
The 2026 edition features six courses with varying difficulty levels, suitable for both experienced athletes and casual participants. The flagship course, the Estrela Grande Trail 105K, is an ultra-trail of approximately 105 kilometers with 5,500 meters of cumulative elevation gain — a true endurance test through the mountain's highest and wildest terrain. For intermediate distances, there's the Estrela Orion Belt (50 km) and Estrela Taurus (35 km). Those seeking a more accessible experience can choose the Estrela Ursa Minor (15 km) or the vertical Uphill Fragão do Corvo race (6 km with around 700 meters of elevation gain). An exciting format is the EGT Experience, covering roughly 71 km split across three stages over the weekend.
The base camp will be set up in front of Manteigas Town Hall, serving as the event's nerve center. Here, visitors and supporters will find a vibrant area with sports merchandise, food stalls, live entertainment, and various recreational and sporting activities for all ages. One of the major innovations of this edition is the live broadcast of the races, allowing people to follow the competition remotely in real time.
Even for those not participating in the races, the Estrela Grande Trail is an excellent opportunity to visit Manteigas, explore the glacial valleys of Serra da Estrela, and enjoy the mountain gastronomy. The event also promotes ecological and social responsibility, raising awareness about preserving this unique natural heritage.
