Estrela Grande Trail 2026 – 11th Edition
The 11th edition of the Estrela Grande Trail returns to Manteigas from May 8 to 10, 2026, with six trail running courses in Serra da Estrela. Over a thousand athletes have already confirmed their participation in this sporting and cultural event.
The Estrela Grande Trail (EGT) returns to Manteigas for its 11th edition, taking place from May 8 to 10, 2026. This trail running event, organised by Estrela Outdoor Events in partnership with the Municipality of Manteigas, is one of the most iconic races in the Serra da Estrela and already has over a thousand confirmed athletes.
The 2026 edition features six courses with varying difficulty levels, designed for both experienced athletes and leisure participants. The highlight is the 105 km ultra-trail with 5,500 metres of cumulative elevation gain, a demanding race that traverses the most spectacular landscapes of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. Other options include the Estrela Orion Belt (50 km), Estrela Taurus (35 km), Estrela Ursa Minor (15 km), the Fragão do Corvo uphill race (6 km with 700 m elevation gain), and a 71 km Experience category split across three stages over the weekend.
The programme kicks off on Friday, May 8, at 6:00 PM with the Fragão do Corvo uphill race. On Saturday at 6:00 AM, ultra-trail runners set off on the 105 km course, followed at 8:00 AM by participants in the 50 km race and the second Experience stage. Sunday, May 10, brings the 35 km race (8:00 AM), 15 km race and third Experience stage (9:00 AM), plus the Kids Trail and charity run (9:15 AM).
The event base camp is set up in front of Manteigas Town Hall, transforming the village centre into a vibrant hub with sports merchandise vendors, food and drink stalls, entertainment, and recreational activities for all ages. A notable feature is the live broadcast of the races, allowing people to follow the competition remotely and in real time.
Registration fees range from free (children's race) to €100 (105 km ultra-trail), with intermediate prices for other distances. Bib collection takes place on May 8 from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM and on May 9 from 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM at the secretariat in Manteigas.
Beyond the sporting dimension, the Estrela Grande Trail is a unique opportunity to discover Manteigas and Serra da Estrela, with its mountain landscapes, traditional highland cuisine, and genuine hospitality. It is a must-attend event for lovers of outdoor sports and nature.
