Lo Pastisset Mountain Trail Race
November 22, 2026 @ 09:00 – 15:00
Lo Pastisset Mountain Trail Race is Benifallet’s biggest sporting event of the year, bringing trail runners from across Catalonia and beyond to tackle the challenging terrain of the Serra de Cardó. This has become one of the most anticipated races in the entire Terres de l’Ebre Mountain Racing Circuit.
The Races
Lo Pastisset offers three competitive routes designed to challenge runners of different abilities whilst showcasing the spectacular natural beauty of the Serra de Cardó:
Lo Pastisset Trail (The Crown Jewel)
Distance: 24.5 km
Elevation Gain: 1,192 m positive / 1,192 m negative
Start Time: 9:00 AM
Difficulty: High
Circuit Status: Scoring race for Terres de l’Ebre Mountain Racing Circuit
This is the flagship race—the most demanding route that ventures deepest into Benifallet’s mountain territory. The circular course starts and finishes in the village, threading through ancient paths and mountain trails that reveal why this region captivates trail runners year after year.
The route passes iconic landmarks of the Serra de Cardó including the Roca Foradada (Holed Rock), the luminous Cova Lluminosa cave, and reaches the highest point at Creu de Santos at 924 metres altitude. You’ll traverse the Racó de Costumà ravine, cross the Coll de Motxo pass, and experience terrain that ranges from technical rocky sections to flowing mountain paths with sweeping views across the Ebro Valley and Els Ports mountain range.
This challenging yet rewarding course combines difficulty with sheer enjoyment, allowing runners to experience nature and landscapes that few visitors to the region ever see.
Lo Pastisset Express
Distance: ~20 km
Elevation Gain: 1,090 m positive
Start Time: 9:15 AM
Difficulty: Moderate to High
Circuit Status: Scoring race for Express category of Terres de l’Ebre Circuit
Designed for Junior category runners and anyone wanting to compete in the Express Circuit, this route offers a substantial mountain challenge without the full commitment of the Trail distance. Don’t let the “Express” name fool you—this is still serious mountain running with over 1,000 metres of climbing packed into 20 kilometres.
The course provides a concentrated dose of everything that makes the Serra de Cardó special: technical terrain, sustained climbs, spectacular viewpoints, and that satisfying burn in your legs that reminds you why you love trail running.
Lo Pastisset Junior/Cadet
Distance: ~12 km
Elevation Gain: Moderate
Start Time: 9:15 AM
Difficulty: Moderate
Category: Youth runners
The Junior/Cadet race introduces younger runners to mountain racing in an environment that’s challenging but appropriate for developing athletes. It’s a genuine mountain race, not a gentle introduction—these young runners tackle real trail terrain and meaningful elevation, preparing them for future editions of the longer routes.
The Serra de Cardó Setting
What makes Lo Pastisset extraordinary isn’t just the racing—it’s where the racing happens. The Serra de Cardó is one of the most charismatic mountain ranges in Terres de l’Ebre, a limestone massif rising dramatically between Benifallet and neighbouring Rasquera.
Landscape and Terrain
The mountain terrain is classic Mediterranean karst landscape: fractured limestone cliffs, hidden caves, seasonal springs bubbling from underground aquifers, and ancient paths worn smooth by centuries of shepherds and pilgrims. The south-facing slopes burst with aromatic herbs—rosemary, thyme, and wild lavender perfume the air as you run. Pine forests cling to sheltered valleys whilst hardy oaks cluster in shadier microclimates.
The Cardó Valley itself is a steep, dramatic gorge drained by the Cardó ravine, a tributary of the Ebro. Runners experience constantly changing perspectives: one moment you’re threading through tight single-track between limestone outcrops, the next you’ve emerged onto a ridge with views stretching from the Ebro Delta to the peaks of Els Ports Natural Park.
Historical Echoes
As you pound up ancient mule paths, you’re literally following in historic footsteps. These routes once connected Benifallet and Rasquera with Tivenys and Tortosa, serving as vital communication links long before modern roads. The ruins of the 17th-century Carmelite hermitages dot the mountainside—spiritual deserts where monks sought solitude and contemplation in this remote wilderness.
The now-ruined Balneari de Cardó (Cardó Spa), accessible by road from Rasquera, stands as a testament to the 19th-century belief in the healing properties of the mountain’s mineral springs. The spa attracted wealthy visitors from across Spain who came to “take the waters” in this dramatic setting.
Race Day Atmosphere
Lo Pastisset has evolved far beyond a simple sporting event—it’s become a genuine community celebration that brings together competitive athletes, casual trail enthusiasts, families, and the entire village of Benifallet.
Pre-Race Morning
Race day begins early at the Centro Polivalente (Avinguda Lluís Companys, 6) where runners collect their race bibs from 7:15-8:45 AM. The village gradually fills with runners warming up, checking gear, and absorbing that distinctive pre-race nervous energy. Local volunteers—over 200 of them—are already stationed at checkpoints, aid stations, and marshalling points throughout the course.
By 8:50 AM, Trail runners enter the closed start park at Pista d’Estiu (Summer Track) along Passeig de l’Ebre for chip timing checks. The 9:00 AM start sends them into the mountains, followed by the Express and Junior runners at 9:15 AM.
The Solidarity Element
What distinguishes Lo Pastisset from many trail races is its deep commitment to charitable causes. Throughout race day, the event raises funds and collects resources for multiple worthy causes:
Red Cross Collections: Sports clothing and equipment are collected for distribution to those in need.
Cancer Support: In collaboration with the Terres de l’Ebre Cancer League (Oncolliga), the event raises funds through sales of handmade craft items. Volunteers sell these handmade products throughout the morning, with proceeds directly benefiting those affected by cancer in the Ebro region.
Community Engagement: The solidarity initiative isn’t an add-on—it’s woven into the fabric of the event. Participants and spectators actively engage with these charitable efforts, understanding that their involvement in Lo Pastisset extends beyond personal athletic achievement.
Activities for Families and Supporters
Race organisers ensure that non-runners aren’t left watching from the sidelines. The Pista d’Estiu becomes an activity hub from 10:00 AM-2:00 PM:
- Children’s Activities: Inflatable play structures, participatory workshops, and games keep younger children entertained whilst parents compete or spectate
- Solidarity Market: Browse and purchase handmade items supporting cancer charities
- Community Atmosphere: Chat with locals, meet other visitors, and experience the warm hospitality that makes Benifallet special
The Finish Line Celebration
As runners complete their mountain battle and emerge onto the finishing stretch, they’re greeted by cheering crowds and the satisfaction of having conquered one of the region’s most respected trail races. But the celebration is just beginning.
Around 12:30 PM, the famous Dinar Popular “Olla Barrejada” begins—a communal lunch prepared by the Dones Meravelles de Benifallet (Wonderful Women of Benifallet association). This traditional stew brings everyone together: exhausted but elated runners, their support crews, volunteers, locals, and visitors. It’s nourishment for the body after mountain exertion and nourishment for the spirit through shared celebration.
(Note: If you have food intolerances or allergies, inform the organisation when registering so they can accommodate your needs.)
At 1:45 PM, the official awards ceremony and prize draw takes place at the Centro Polivalente, recognising not just the fastest runners but celebrating everyone who took on the challenge. The event officially closes at 3:00 PM with embraces, pastries (pastissets, naturally—the race’s namesake sweet pastry), and champagne toasts.
Why Lo Pastisset Matters
Since its founding in 2010 by Associació Fent Sendera, Lo Pastisset has grown from a local trail race into a respected fixture on the Catalan mountain running calendar. But it’s maintained the values that made it special from the beginning:
Environmental Respect: The race celebrates the natural beauty of the Serra de Cardó whilst emphasising the responsibility to protect these landscapes for future generations.
Promotion of Physical Activity: In a world of sedentary habits, Lo Pastisset champions outdoor exercise, mountain sports, and the health benefits of challenging yourself in nature.
Community Pride: For tiny Benifallet (population around 800), organising an event that draws 500+ participants annually represents enormous communal effort and pride in their village and its surroundings.
Accessible Competition: Whilst the courses are genuinely challenging, they’re not exclusive to elite mountain runners. Average trail runners test themselves here, first-timers discover mountain racing, and experienced athletes chase competitive times.
Cultural Preservation: By bringing visitors to Benifallet and showcasing the Serra de Cardó, the race helps sustain rural life and agricultural traditions that might otherwise struggle in an increasingly urbanised Catalonia.
Competitive Standards
Lo Pastisset attracts serious mountain running talent alongside recreational participants. The race has seen victories from accomplished athletes and competitive times that demonstrate its credibility on the Catalan racing circuit.
Winning times for the Trail route typically come in around 2 hours 55 minutes to 3 hours for men, with women’s winning times around 3 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 45 minutes. But these are the fastest—most finishers take considerably longer, with cutoff times generous enough to accommodate a wide range of abilities.
For Finca Guests: Why This Matters to You
If you’re staying at our Riverside Finca during late November, Lo Pastisset offers multiple ways to engage with authentic Catalan culture and outdoor sports:
For Runners
Consider entering the race! You’ll be staying within walking distance of the start line—no logistical complications, no early morning drives to unfamiliar locations. Wake up at the finca, walk to the village, compete in one of Catalonia’s most scenic trail races, and return to your riverside accommodation for recovery.
The courses showcase terrain you can explore during your stay. Training runs on the Serra de Cardó paths during the week before the race serve as both preparation and sightseeing.
For Supporters
Even if you don’t run, race day offers fantastic spectating opportunities. Position yourself at various points around Benifallet to cheer runners as they depart and return, or hike partway up the mountain to catch them at scenic sections. The community atmosphere, solidarity activities, and communal lunch welcome everyone—you don’t need to be racing to participate in the celebration.
Cultural Immersion
Lo Pastisset reveals Benifallet at its best: hundreds of volunteers working together, the entire village transformed by a shared purpose, visitors from across Catalonia mingling with locals, and that distinctive Spanish talent for combining serious sporting competition with joyful social celebration.
It’s authentic, unpretentious, and genuinely welcoming—everything we love about this region condensed into one spectacular day on the mountain.
Practical Information
Registration
Registration typically opens several weeks before the event and closes when the race reaches capacity (usually around 500 total participants across all categories). The race has sold out in advance in recent editions, so early registration is strongly advised.
Visit the official website at www.lopastisset.cat for:
- Registration links and pricing
- Detailed race regulations and rules
- Course maps and elevation profiles
- Updates and announcements
Follow the race on social media:
- Facebook: La Cursa del Pastisset / @lopastisset
- Instagram: @lopastisset
- Twitter: @lopastisset
What Runners Need
- Trail running shoes: Technical terrain demands proper footwear with good grip
- Hydration: Aid stations are positioned throughout courses, but carry your own supply
- Nutrition: Bring gels, bars, or your preferred running fuel
- Weather-appropriate clothing: Late November in the mountains can range from sunny and mild to cold and potentially wet
- Timing chip: Provided at registration, must be worn throughout race
- Race bib: Must be visible on your front torso
- Mandatory safety equipment: Check race regulations for required items (typically includes water, emergency whistle, emergency blanket)
Getting There from the Finca
You’re 2.5 kilometres from the village centre where registration, start/finish, and all race activities take place. That’s a pleasant 30-minute walk along the road or a 5-minute drive if you prefer. On race morning, we recommend walking—it doubles as your warm-up and avoids any parking complications.
The start/finish area at Pista d’Estiu (Summer Track) sits along Passeig de l’Ebre on the village outskirts, easily accessible from our finca.
Spectating Tips
The beauty of Lo Pastisset’s courses is that multiple sections pass through areas accessible to non-runners:
- Watch the start at Pista d’Estiu
- Position yourself along the first kilometres as runners head toward the mountain
- Hike to vantage points where trails pass through accessible areas (ask locals for suggestions)
- Return to the finish area for the emotional final stretches and crossing celebrations
- Join the communal lunch (if you’ve registered for it)
November in Benifallet
Late November offers ideal trail running conditions in the Ebro Valley: comfortably cool temperatures (typically 10-18°C), lower humidity than summer, and usually stable weather. The landscape takes on autumn colours—golden grasses, silvery olive trees, and clear, crisp air that makes mountain views spectacular.
For finca guests, this means pleasant weather for fishing on the Ebro, comfortable hiking temperatures, and that special quality of light that photographers love. Combined with the race week energy in the village, it’s an excellent time to experience the area.
Beyond the Race
Lo Pastisset celebrates the Serra de Cardó, but you don’t need to be racing to explore these mountains. During your stay at the finca, consider hiking some of the routes that runners will tackle:
- Easier family routes through lower sections of the range
- The Hermitage Route visiting ruined 17th-century Carmelite chapels
- The climb to Creu de Santos for panoramic summit views
- Circular routes connecting Benifallet and Rasquera
- Paths to Roca Foradada and Cova Lluminosa
Local hiking associations Fent Sendera (Benifallet) and La Picossa (Mora d’Ebre) have done excellent work recovering and maintaining these historic trails. Maps and route information are available at the Benifallet tourist office.
The mountains that challenge race participants also offer accessible walking for anyone who wants to experience this beautiful landscape at a gentler pace.
Book Your Stay
If you’re considering entering Lo Pastisset or simply want to experience the race week atmosphere in Benifallet, our Riverside Finca provides the perfect base. You’ll be close enough to fully participate in the event yet far enough to enjoy peaceful riverside solitude for pre-race focus or post-race recovery.
The finca sleeps up to five people, making it ideal for small groups of runners or families combining one person’s racing ambitions with a holiday for everyone else. The proximity to both the race and the training terrain is unmatched—you literally stay where the race happens.
Contact us to check availability for November. Spaces around popular events like Lo Pastisset book early, especially from runners who’ve discovered this perfect location in previous editions.
Ready to take on the mountain? Register at www.lopastisset.cat and prepare for one of Catalonia’s most memorable trail running experiences. The trails are waiting, the mountain is calling, and Benifallet will welcome you with open arms.
