The Pyrenees are one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the world. Especially for trail running enthusiasts. The Val d’Aran by UTMB, is a high-mountain trail running event with an incredible challenge. This event is part of the UTMB World Series, a series of 50 international sporting events that make up the world’s premier trail running circuit.
This article will discuss Val d’Aran by UTMB, along with tips for an unforgettable visit to this region. We’ll also share the perfect accommodation options for your stay during the event or at any time of the year.
Main routes and categories of the Val d'Aran by UTMB
There are several races within the Val d’Aran by UTMB event. Here, we’ll explain each of them in more detail:
HOKA Val d’Aran by UTMB® - Peades d'Aigua - PDA
This race is one of the most highly regarded in the circuit, offering a spectacular 55-kilometre adventure through mountains of unparalleled beauty. Participants will face 3,300 metres of positive elevation gain and 3,700 metres of negative elevation gain. The route starts in Salardú, crosses the Colomèrs area and its glacial lake, and finishes in Vielha.
HOKA Val d’Aran by UTMB® - Torn dera Val d'Aran - VDA
This race is a challenge for all participants, but also an opportunity to enjoy incomparable natural beauty. It covers 163 kilometres through valleys, abandoned mines, and lakes, offering a demanding yet equally rewarding experience. The VDA features 10,000 metres of positive elevation gain and is a circular route that starts and finishes in Vielha.
HOKA Val d’Aran by UTMB® - Camins d'Hèr - CDH
This 110-kilometre race, starting in Les, is another perfect option for discovering the Val d’Aran while staying active and crossing some of the wildest parts of the region. Participants will pass through mining areas — and even have to cross some of them! The reward will be breathtaking views of lakes, rivers, and waterfalls, all set against the imposing presence of Mount Mauberme.
HOKA Val d’Aran by UTMB® - SKY - Baqueira Beret
This is a great race for appreciating the Val d’Aran from a privileged vantage point, high up in the mountains. Although it’s a shorter event than the others, at only 15 kilometres, it’s much faster yet still challenging. With a gradient of 800 metres, it offers a unique perspective of the valley, allowing participants to take in the stunning views.
HOKA Val d’Aran by UTMB® - SKY 15K PROMESAS
This is the perfect race for those starting in the world of challenge and adventure. It follows the same route as the previous race (15 kilometres with a gradient of 800 metres) but is aimed at athletes aged between 16 and 19. Starting in Pla de Beret, it offers a fantastic opportunity for young trail running enthusiasts to test their limits.
HOKA Val d’Aran by UTMB® - Experiència d'Aran - EXP
A fast and beautiful race, suitable for all levels, featuring a circular route around the Vielha area. With a distance of 32 kilometres and a 2,100-metre negative elevation gain, it’s perfect for beginners or athletes looking to combine it with other races.
Other locations of the UTMB World Series
This series of events is the perfect way to travel the world and do what you love most: trail running. We’ve talked about the various races you can participate in or attend in the Val d’Aran, in the Pyrenees, but we also want to highlight some of the most interesting locations around the world.
In total, there are 50 events spread across five continents, with the grand finale held at the iconic Mont Blanc in France. Other events in the series take place in places such as Chiang Mai (Thailand), Tarawera (New Zealand), the Chianti region (Italy), Salento (Colombia), and Auburn (United States), among many others. These events attract thousands of participants in each location, and in fact, spots often sell out long before the event dates!
What to see and do in Valle de Arán?
Mountains, snow, lakes, villages… The options are endless, but we’ll make it easy for you with a few suggestions of things to see and do in the Val d’Aran, beyond the UTMB Val d’Aran.
Vielha
This village is the capital of the region and serves as a perfect starting point for exploring the area. Here, you can stroll through the historic centre, visit its museum, sample traditional food, and stop by the tourist office for more information. From here, several spectacular hiking trails begin.
Baqueira-Beret
This is the largest ski resort in southern Europe, with 110 slopes covering a total of 165 kilometres. If you love skiing, you can’t miss it, and if not, you can try snowboarding or simply enjoy the breathtaking views.
Route Uelhs deth Joeu - Era Artiga de Lin
One of the best routes you can do as a family in this area, as it’s not too difficult and will take you through some stunning locations. Uelhs deth Joeu is an impressive waterfall, and Era Artiga de Lin is possibly the most beautiful natural spot in the Val d’Aran. This route allows you to visit both places, so be sure to add it to your list of must-do activities.
UTMB Val d'Aran: An incredible expereince
The Val d’Aran is a fantastic destination for a mountain holiday. It is home to one of the best ski resorts in the country, Baqueira-Beret, and some of the most stunning natural landscapes you can imagine.
Taking part in the UTMB Val d’Aran is the perfect excuse for athletes looking to challenge themselves while exploring this beautiful region. Even if you’re not participating, attending the event is great, as the atmosphere is lively.
For accommodation in the Val d’Aran, Toti Arán is undoubtedly the best choice. With high-quality apartments and houses available it’s a great place to stay while you participate in the UTMB Val d’Aran 2025.
