Puglia by UTMB® 2026

Puglia by UTMB® is an autumn trail-running series in southern Italy. Races range from short, accessible distances to a 144 km ultra. The longest race begins in Matera, linking the inland canyon country with Castellaneta Marina on the Ionian coast. Distances include a 10 km route with 50 m of climbing, a 144 km race with 3,800 m+, and options of 35 km, 50 km, and 85 km. As part of the UTMB World Series, it attracts runners seeking Running Stones and those attempting their first UTMB-branded race outside of high mountains. The courses traverse Puglia’s limestone terrain, featuring coastal paths, country lanes, agricultural land, white villages, cliffs, and uneven rocky sections. The 144 km route crosses Gravine Natural Park, focusing on the canyon landscape between Matera and the sea. The 85 km race starts in Laterza with 2,000 m+ of climbing. The terrain is technical and stop-start, demanding frequent changes of rhythm, with wind exposure being as significant as climbing on open stretches. While long-distance amateurs form a core part of the field, the results also show a strong international presence near the top of the 85 km standings, with competitors from Italy, Norway, Switzerland, Austria, France, Ireland, Belgium, Poland, and other nations.