Ultra Trail Guara Somontano: Inside One of Spain’s Most Authentic Trail Races – Interview with Organizer Santi Santamaria
Ultra Trail Guara Somontano (UTGS) has quietly become one of Spain’s most respected trail running events — not by joining major international circuits, but by staying true to its roots.
Set in the spectacular landscapes of the Sierra de Guara and the Somontano region, UTGS offers runners a raw and authentic trail experience: rocky terrain, deep canyons, historic villages, and a strong sense of community. Created more than 17 years ago by a group of passionate local runners, the race has grown steadily while remaining focused on what matters most — the runner, the territory, and the people behind the event.
In this interview with Santi Santamaria, one of the organizers of Ultra Trail Guara Somontano, we explore what makes UTGS different from large international trail running circuits. From the values that define the race, to the challenges faced in recent editions, and the ambitions for UTGS 2026, Santi shares a behind-the-scenes perspective on organizing a trail race that puts authenticity before hype.
We also discuss the unique landscapes of the Sierra de Guara, the importance of volunteers and local communities, the race’s growing appeal for international runners, and UTGS’s integration into the new UNIT TRAIL circuit, designed to support grassroots trail running and young athletes.
Whether you are a runner looking for a genuine trail experience in Spain, or an organizer interested in sustainable race development, Ultra Trail Guara Somontano offers an inspiring model.
Q1. The spirit of Ultra Trail Guara Somontano
Ultra Trail Guara Somontano is a race that has grown over the years without losing its soul. From your point of view, what makes UTGS special and different compared to major international circuits? What values define the race, and what do you want runners to remember after crossing the finish line?
UTGS was born 17 years ago from the initiative of four runners, with the goal of showcasing a territory that was very special to us.
From the very beginning, we wanted to create a race focused on the everyday runner — without artificial elements, without selling hype or empty promises.
We wanted a race where everyone feels comfortable, and above all, a race that people want to come back to again and again.
Q2. Looking back at 2025: lessons and key moments
Each edition brings its own stories, logistical challenges, and lessons learned. Looking back at this year’s edition, what were the highlights for the organizing team? Were there any unexpected challenges, and what did you learn that will help you improve in 2026?
2025 was the year we changed the course of our Ultra distance.
The new route is slightly shorter, but it fully preserves the Guara DNA: lots of rocks, incredible canyons, and very demanding terrain for the runners.
The change was well received, and in 2025 we broke our participation record, exceeding 1,400 registered runners.
On an internal level, however, it was a very difficult year. In August, our main sponsor informed us that they were withdrawing their support. We went through some very tough moments to keep the event alive and finally manage to make it happen.
Q3. What’s new for 2026: dates, distances, and event evolution
You’ve just announced the new date for 2026, and many runners — both Spanish and international — are curious about what the next edition will bring. Can you give us a preview of the main changes or novelties, whether in distances, routes, formats, or runner experience? What goals guide this evolution?
The distances will remain the same.
Our main challenge for 2026 is to consolidate the new Ultra route and make some adjustments to the cut-off times at specific points.
Our goal is to reach 300 participants in the Ultra distance.
As a major novelty, we are joining the new UNIT TRAIL circuit. It’s a project that really excites us, as it is designed for amateur runners, supports young athletes, and introduces an innovative team league format that we believe will be very well received by the trail running community.
Q4. Landscapes, territory, and destination: running to discover
Somontano and the Sierra de Guara are spectacular, yet still relatively unknown outside Spain. If you had to explain to an international runner what makes this region special for trail running, what would you highlight? What kind of experience — in terms of terrain, scenery, and atmosphere — can someone expect if they’ve never run in Guara before?
The Sierra de Guara is unlike any other trail destination — and that’s what makes it special.
Its canyons, eroded rock formations, endless stones, abandoned villages, silence, calm, and even prehistoric cave paintings recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites…
It’s a unique and spectacular landscape that leaves a lasting impression, combined with the warmth and kindness of the local people.
And if you add to that the local gastronomy, the wines and olive oils of the Somontano Designation of Origin, and the village of Alquézar, which is the heart of the race — then you truly have everything.
Q5. Community, volunteers, and the heart of the event
Trail running is about much more than competition — it’s about community, shared effort, and connection to the land. How would you describe the community of volunteers, local associations, and residents who make UTGS possible? What role do they play in the race’s identity and in the runner’s experience?
UTGS is a race created by the people, for the people.
Our volunteers are the soul and the engine of the race — and we don’t say that lightly. Many of them have been with us since the very first edition, helping to make the runner’s experience truly unforgettable.
A few years ago, we also launched the Trail Running School project, with the goal of offering an extracurricular activity for children in Alquézar (a village of just 250 inhabitants) and surrounding towns.
All the families involved in the school take part in organizing the race, and together with us they run the UTGS Kids race, which had nearly 200 participants this year — in addition to the more than 1,400 runners across all other distances
Conclusion
Ultra Trail Guara Somontano stands as a powerful reminder that trail running does not need spectacle or oversized branding to be meaningful. Its strength lies in its terrain, its community, and a clear vision centered on runners rather than trends.
Through route evolution, strong volunteer engagement, and a deep connection to the Sierra de Guara and Somontano region, UTGS has managed to grow responsibly — even in the face of significant organizational challenges. The record participation in recent editions and the successful redesign of the Ultra distance show that authenticity and ambition can coexist.
Looking ahead to UTGS 2026, the race continues to build on its foundations: consolidating its courses, supporting grassroots trail running through the UNIT TRAIL circuit, and opening its doors to more international runners seeking an authentic Spanish trail experience.
For those searching for a trail race where landscapes, people, and values truly matter, Ultra Trail Guara Somontano remains one of the most compelling events on the European trail running calendar.
