The month of the big races
October has become the highlight of the trail running season in Mallorca. The Serra de Tramuntana hosts some of the toughest and most spectacular races of the year, attracting elite international athletes as well as passionate runners eager to push their limits in a unique natural setting. From legendary events like the Mallorca 5000 to the epic Serra de Tramuntana SDT ultra, this month the mountains come alive with sport, making Sóller the true heart of the action.
October in the Serra de Tramuntana
The Serra de Tramuntana is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site: it is also a spectacular natural setting for mountain runners, ultratrails, popular races and sporting events of all levels. If you are staying in Sóller or its surroundings, these are some of the most important races worth knowing about – whether you want to take part, watch them, or plan your trip around sport.
During these weeks, Sóller and the nearby villages become the stage for some of the most demanding and spectacular races in Mallorca’s sporting calendar:
Mallorca 5000
Starting in Sóller and finishing in Pollença, the Mallorca 5000 is a true challenge: more than 70 km and 5,000 metres of positive elevation gain, crossing emblematic landmarks such as the Barranc de Biniaraix, l’Ofre, the Coll de sa Línia and other iconic peaks.
It is a tough, technical and beautiful race, part of the Mallorca by UTMB circuit, which attracts elite international runners.
Serra de Tramuntana SDT (Mallorca by UTMB®)
At the end of the month, from 31 October to 2 November, one of the island’s most prestigious ultras takes place: the SDT – Serra de Tramuntana, covering 137 km with more than 5,000 m of elevation gain. It is part of the major event Mallorca by UTMB®, which offers several distances (100K, 50K and 20K) and turns the Tramuntana into a world stage for trail running.
Serra de Tramuntana Races (popular circuit)
Alongside the long-distance events, October also hosts more accessible and family-friendly races within the circuit organised by the Consell de Mallorca.
This month, villages such as Pollença and Deià hold their own running days, perfect for those who want to enjoy the sporting atmosphere of the mountains at a closer pace.
Cursa Vall de Sóller: Mountain race around Sóller, about 27 km with +1250 m of elevation gain. A circular route starting and finishing in Sóller.
Serra de Tramuntana Races of the Consell de Mallorca: A circuit of races for children and adults, involving more than 10 municipalities. They promote grassroots sport, local participation and connection with the villages of the Tramuntana.
Enjoying the races from Sóller
Staying in Sóller during October means being at the heart of these events.
Our valley is the starting point for major races or is very close to several start/finish routes, such as the Mallorca 5000 and stages of the GR-221, making it easy to access the trails without long journeys.
At the same time, it is an ideal place for companions and visitors: while the runners challenge the mountains, their families can enjoy the charm of the town, the beach of Port de Sóller and the local gastronomy.
And finally, after the race, both runners and companions can enjoy beaches, walks along the port, gentle hiking trails, cultural visits to nearby villages, sea views and relaxation… perfect to complete the stay.
