Terra de Gigantes

The Lousa Mountain Trail is a trail running event scheduled for January 18, 2026, in Lousa, Loures, Portugal. It offers three race options: a Long Trail of 23 km, a Short Trail of 13 km, and an 8 km Walk, accommodating various levels of trail running enthusiasts and walkers.

This event is open to all adults aged 18 and over without the need for a license, making it inclusive for both competitive runners and recreational participants. It is part of the Merrell Trail Running Series, highlighting its integration into a recognized trail running circuit.

Participants will experience challenging elevation gains (1200 m for the long trail and 600 m for the short trail) through natural trails in the region. The race atmosphere is supportive with logistical and medical aid, solid and liquid refreshment points, and a festive award ceremony recognizing top individual and team performances. The walk is non-competitive, allowing family and casual participation.

The Funchal Marathon 2026, taking place on January 18th in the beautiful city of Funchal, Madeira Island, offers an exciting and inclusive running experience for athletes of all levels. Organized by the Madeira Athletics Association, the event includes three distances: the full Marathon (42.195 km), Half Marathon (21.097 km), and a shorter, more accessible Mini Marathon (~8.3 km). Open to both amateur and competitive runners—whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced marathoner—this race showcases the island’s mild winter climate and scenic urban coastline.

The course weaves through the vibrant streets of Funchal, providing a mix of sea views, historic architecture, and enthusiastic local support. With a festive and welcoming atmosphere, pace guides for key finish times, and excellent support services, the event is well-suited for personal records, group challenges, or simply enjoying a memorable running experience in one of Portugal’s most charming destinations.

The Vouga Trail 2026 is a trail running event taking place from January 9 to 11, 2026, in Sever do Vouga, Portugal. It offers a variety of race distances, including ultra (55 km), long (38 km), short (20 km), mini (12 km), and uphill (5 km) trails, as well as a non-competitive 12 km walk and a kids’ social event with distances from 500 to 2000 meters adjusted by age.

This event is open mainly to adult athletes (18+), with younger categories for mini and kids events, and includes timed races with official classification. It features challenging elevation profiles, with up to 2800 meters of positive climb, across natural heritage areas with lush trails, riverbanks, levadas, and scenic mountain views around the Serra da Freita, Arestal, and Ladário massifs.

The atmosphere combines competitive trail racing with social and family-oriented activities, including the Vouga Kids event and a walking trail, making it inclusive for various participant profiles. The event also offers a multi-stage Green Stages race totaling 63 km, spread over three days.

The Vulcan Trail 2026, organized by Grupo Desportivo de Igreja Nova, will take place on January 4, 2026, in Igreja Nova, Mafra. The event features three options: Trail Longo (20+ km), Trail Curto (12+ km), and a non-competitive Caminhada. It is part of the Mafra Trail Running Series and aims to promote healthy lifestyles, environmental awareness, and local trail culture. Participants compete across several age divisions and enjoy a scenic route through rural and wooded terrain, with elevation and technical elements. The race is semi self-sufficient, requiring athletes to carry their own hydration system. All competitive participants receive electronic timing, and finishers earn medals. Team participation is encouraged, with prizes for both individual and group results. The event ends with an optional hot meal and social gathering. The organization enforces sustainability practices, including no single-use cups at aid stations.