Sfakia Vertical Run 2026

The Sfakia Vertical Run is a short, steep mountain race in southwest Crete, linking the small port of Loutro with Anopoli above Chora Sfakion. It takes place in late October and includes about 680 meters of climbing over roughly 5 kilometers. While the distance seems modest on paper, the effort is almost entirely uphill. Participants gather at Chora Sfakion port for bib pickup, then board a ferry to Loutro. The race begins from the ferry ramp, establishing an unusual sea-to-mountain rhythm before the running commences. The course begins with about 500 meters along the car-free Loutro seafront before turning onto a rocky path ascending toward the chapel of Agia Aikaterini. The primary climb spans approximately 3.5 kilometers, accounting for nearly all the race's elevation gain. Poles and a hat are advised, though no mandatory equipment is specified. Competitors must ring the church bell at the chapel to confirm their passage. The descent covers about 900 meters via path, road, and kalderimi to Anopoli square. The event has a participant limit of a few hundred athletes, with two aid stations, a mid-course cut-off point, medical support, electronic timing, bag transfer to the finish, and 4x4 transport for those unable to complete the course.