Lo Pastisset Mountain Trail Race
novembre 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
Difficulté : 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
Difficulté : 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: Modéré
Start Time: 9:15 AM
Difficulté : Modéré
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.
Immersion culturelle
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.
Informations pratiques
Inscription
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
Ce dont les coureurs ont besoin
- Chaussures de course sur sentier : Les terrains techniques exigent des chaussures adéquates avec une bonne adhérence
- Hydratation : Des postes de secours sont placés tout au long des parcours, mais emporte ta propre provision
- Nutrition : Apporte des gels, des barres ou ton carburant préféré pour la course.
- Vêtements adaptés aux conditions météorologiques : La fin du mois de novembre en montagne peut varier du soleil et de la douceur au froid et au risque d'humidité
- Puce de chronométrage : Fourni lors de l'inscription, il doit être porté pendant toute la durée de la course.
- Dossard de la course : Doit être visible sur ton torse avant
- Équipement de sécurité obligatoire : Vérifie les règlements de la course pour connaître les articles nécessaires (généralement de l'eau, un sifflet d'urgence, une couverture d'urgence).
Se rendre à la Finca
Tu es à 2,5 kilomètres du centre du village où se déroulent les inscriptions, le départ/arrivée et toutes les activités de la course. C'est une agréable promenade de 30 minutes le long de la route ou de 5 minutes en voiture si tu préfères. Le matin de la course, nous te recommandons de marcher - cela te permet de t'échauffer et d'éviter les problèmes de stationnement.
La zone de départ et d'arrivée de la Pista d'Estiu (piste d'été) se trouve le long du Passeig de l'Ebre, à la périphérie du village, facilement accessible depuis notre finca.
Conseils pour les spectateurs
La beauté des parcours de Lo Pastisset est que plusieurs sections passent par des zones accessibles aux non-coureurs :
- Regarde le départ à Pista d'Estiu
- Positionne-toi le long des premiers kilomètres alors que les coureurs se dirigent vers la montagne.
- Fais des randonnées jusqu'à des points d'observation où les sentiers passent par des zones accessibles (demande des suggestions aux gens du coin).
- Retourne à l'aire d'arrivée pour les derniers étirements émotionnels et les célébrations de la traversée.
- Participe au déjeuner commun (si tu t'y es inscrit).
Novembre à Benifallet
La fin du mois de novembre offre des conditions idéales pour la pratique du trail running dans la vallée de l'Èbre : des températures agréablement fraîches (généralement entre 10 et 18 °C), une humidité plus faible qu'en été et un temps généralement stable. Le paysage prend des couleurs d'automne - herbes dorées, oliviers argentés, et un air clair et vif qui rend les vues sur les montagnes spectaculaires.
Pour les clients de finca, cela signifie un temps agréable pour pêcher sur l'Ebre, des températures confortables pour les randonnées, et cette qualité de lumière particulière que les photographes adorent. Combiné à l'énergie de la semaine des courses dans le village, c'est un excellent moment pour découvrir la région.
Au-delà de la course
Lo Pastisset célèbre la Serra de Cardó, mais il n'est pas nécessaire de faire de la course pour explorer ces montagnes. Pendant ton séjour au finca, envisage de faire de la randonnée sur certains des itinéraires qu'emprunteront les coureurs :
- Des itinéraires plus faciles pour les familles dans les sections inférieures de la chaîne.
- La route de l'Ermitage en visitant des chapelles carmélites en ruine datant du 17ème siècle.
- L'ascension de la Creu de Santos pour une vue panoramique du sommet.
- Itinéraires circulaires reliant Benifallet et Rasquera
- Chemins vers Roca Foradada et Cova Lluminosa
Les associations locales de randonnée Fent Sendera (Benifallet) et La Picossa (Mora d'Ebre) ont fait un excellent travail de récupération et d'entretien de ces sentiers historiques. Des cartes et des informations sur les itinéraires sont disponibles à l'office de tourisme de Benifallet.
Les montagnes qui défient les participants à la course offrent également des randonnées accessibles à tous ceux qui veulent découvrir ce magnifique paysage à un rythme plus doux.
Réservez votre séjour
Si tu envisages de participer à Lo Pastisset ou si tu veux simplement vivre l'atmosphère de la semaine de course à Benifallet, notre Riverside Finca constitue le point de départ idéal. Tu seras assez proche pour participer pleinement à l'événement, mais assez loin pour profiter de la solitude paisible du bord de la rivière pour te concentrer avant la course ou pour récupérer après la course.
Le finca peut accueillir jusqu'à cinq personnes, ce qui le rend idéal pour les petits groupes de coureurs ou les familles qui combinent les ambitions de course d'une personne avec des vacances pour tous les autres. La proximité de la course et du terrain d'entraînement est inégalée - tu restes littéralement là où la course a lieu.
Contacte-nous pour vérifier la disponibilité pour le mois de novembre. Les places autour des événements populaires comme Lo Pastisset se réservent très tôt, surtout auprès des coureurs qui ont découvert cet endroit parfait lors des éditions précédentes.
Prêt à affronter la montagne ? Inscris-toi sur www.lopastisset.cat et prépare-toi à vivre l'une des expériences de trail running les plus mémorables de Catalogne. Les sentiers attendent, la montagne appelle, et Benifallet t'accueillera à bras ouverts.
