Nestled in the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees, the Val d’Aran offers an unparalleled trail running experience. This event combines demanding courses with breathtaking alpine scenery. Whether you’re taking on the full 163K Torn dera Val d’Aran (VDA) or the shorter Experiència d’Aran (EXP), each race is a deep dive into the raw beauty and rugged landscapes of the Pyrenees.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the race—from course details and terrain challenges to training, nutrition, and race-day strategies. If you’re planning to take on Val d’Aran, this is the ultimate resource to help you prepare for success.
A Legacy of Trail Running Excellence
The Val d’Aran has quickly become one of the most prestigious ultra-trail events in Europe. Dubbed the “European Major” of the World Series, it draws elite and amateur runners from all over the world.
The course winds through the most spectacular parts of Val d’Aran, a valley known for its glacial lakes, high-mountain passes, and medieval villages. Unlike other races in the, this event showcases the wild and untamed nature of the Pyrenees, with steep climbs, technical descents, and dramatic alpine scenery.
In 2024, over 6,200 runners from 80 countries took part in the event, solidifying its reputation as one of the premier races on the international trail running calendar.
Race Categories: Choose Your Challenge
1. Torn dera Val d’Aran (VDA) – The Ultimate Challenge
- Distance: 163 km (101 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 10,000 meters (32,800 feet)
- Start: Friday, July 4, 2025 – 16:00 in Vielha
- Time Limit: 48 hours
The VDA is the king of the Val d’Aran races, a 100-mile course that pushes runners to their absolute limits. With over 10,000 meters of elevation gain, this race is one of the most difficult ultra-trails in Europe.
The course showcases the best of the Pyrenees, crossing high-altitude ridges, remote valleys, and ancient mining tunnels. Expect long stretches of solitude, unpredictable weather, and some of the most challenging climbs in the UTMB® World Series.
Key Features:
- Technical mountain passes
- Remote, wild landscapes
- Long, punishing ascents
2. Camins d’Hèr (CDH) – A Wild Adventure
- Distance: 110 km (68 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 6,400 meters (21,000 feet)
- Start: Friday, July 4, 2025 – 06:00 in Les
- Time Limit: 28 hours
The CDH is slightly shorter than the VDA, but still incredibly tough. The course features alpine lakes, rugged ridges, and historic trails used by miners centuries ago. Runners will pass through Mauberme, a stunning peak near the French border, and navigate through some of the most remote terrain in Spain.
Key Features:
- Glacial lakes and waterfalls
- Technical mountain terrain
- Remote, unspoiled landscapes
3. Peades d’Aigua (PDA) – A Fast but Tough Race
- Distance: 55 km (34 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 3,300 meters (10,800 feet)
- Start: Thursday, July 3, 2025 – 07:00 in Salardú
- Time Limit: 14 hours
The PDA is a great option for runners looking to experience Val d’Aran’s epic landscapes and dip their toes into ultra-distance races.
This course circles the Colomèrs glacial lake system, one of the most breathtaking spots in the Pyrenees. The ascents are steep and relentless, but the descents are fast and fun. Expect runnable sections mixed with challenging technical terrain.
Key Features:
- Stunning alpine lakes
- Challenging but fast course
- Accessible for experienced trail runners
4. Experiència d’Aran (EXP) – A Short and Scenic Trail Race
- Distance: 32 km (20 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 2,100 meters (6,900 feet)
- Start: Sunday, July 6, 2025 – Vielha
The EXP is a short and scenic race designed for both beginners and experienced trail runners who want to enjoy the mountains without the extreme commitment of the longer distances. This loop around Vielha offers a beautiful mix of forested trails, open ridges, and panoramic viewpoints.
Key Features:
- Ideal for first-time mountain runners
- Beautiful views of Vielha and the Pyrenees
- Challenging but rewarding terrain
Preparing for Val d’Aran
Strength and Conditioning for Mountain Running
The steep climbs and technical descents at Val d’Aran require strong legs, core stability, and overall endurance.
Key Strength Exercises:
- Step-Ups and Lunges – Mimic steep ascents and improve uphill power
- Squats and Deadlifts – Build endurance for long climbs
- Planks and Core Work – Improve balance and control on technical trails
- Single-Leg Exercises – Enhance stability for rocky descents
- Ankle Strengthening – To prepare for those tricky/technical trails
Adapting to Altitude
Many parts of the Val d’Aran course climb above 2,000 meters (6,500 feet), which can make breathing harder for those unaccustomed to high elevations.
How to Prepare Without Living at Altitude:
- Train on Hills and Stairs – Simulate the effort of climbing at high elevation
- Deep Breathing Drills – Strengthen your lungs with nasal breathing exercises
- Arrive a Few Days Early – If possible, arrive 2-3 days before the race to help your body adjust
- Hydrate Aggressively – Dehydration happens faster at altitude, so drink plenty of water
Race-Day Nutrition and Hydration
Long races like the VDA and CDH require a well-planned nutrition strategy to sustain energy.
Fueling Strategy:
- Eat Every 30 Minutes – Aim to consume 70-100 grams of carbs per hour
- Mix Gels, Real Food & Electrolytes – A balance of carbs, proteins, and salts keeps your body fueled
- Hydrate with Electrolytes – Drink 500-750ml per hour to prevent dehydration
Mental Strategies for Success
The mental challenge of Val d’Aran is just as intense as the physical challenge. The remote terrain, long hours, and relentless climbs can wear down even the toughest runners.
- Break the Race Into Segments – Focus on reaching the next aid station, not the finish line
- Develop Mantras and Mental Cues – “One step at a time” can keep you going in the hardest moments
- Visualize Success – Picture yourself cresting the final climb and crossing the finish line
The Val d’Aran is one of the toughest and most beautiful trail races in the world. Whether you’re tackling the VDA’s brutal 163 km journey or the EXP’s scenic 32 km loop, this race is an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Pyrenees.
With the right training, nutrition, and mindset, you’ll be ready to conquer this epic challenge. Good luck, and see you on the trails!
