stages

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T

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G

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Stage One

March 2 2026

Porozina - Cres

Course

  • Distance: 28.9 km
  • Elevation gain: 1082 m
  • Start: 10:00
  • Time limit: 7:00 h
  • Finish: 16:30

Feed Zones

  • Feed Zone 1: 9.5 km
  • Feed Zone 2: 15.5 km
  • Finish 28.9 km

Transfer

  • Departure to start: 8:00
  • Transfer: 1:25 h | 80 km
  • Departure from finish: 15:00 - 17:00
  • Transfer: 1:00 h | 60 km

The race starts in Porozina, a small port on the northern tip of Cres Island, within the Tramuntana region. This area is known for its rugged terrain and the powerful tramontane wind, a strong, cold, dry wind that blows from the northeast. This part of the island is quite unusual and different from the rest of Cres. It is full of dramatic contrasts and, because of its isolation, could be described as being “frozen in time”. The stage immediately challenges runners with a significant climb to Sis, the highest peak on Cres. From the summit, runners descend through a variety of terrains, including rugged coastal paths offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, dense pine forests providing shade and a more sheltered environment, and historic trails. The stage culminates in the charming town of Cres, the island’s main settlement, offering a welcome respite and the chance to experience local culture.

Stage Two

March 3 2026

Cres - Martinšćica

Course

  • Distance: 36.4 km
  • Elevation gain: 883 m
  • Start: 9:30
  • Time limit: 7:00 h
  • Finish: 16:30

Feed Zones

  • Feed Zone 1: 8.9 km
  • Feed Zone 2: 19.9 km
  • Feed Zone 3: 26.9 km
  • Finish 36.4 km

Transfer

  • Departure to start: 8:00
  • Transfer: 1:00 h | 58 km
  • Departure from finish: 15:00 - 17:00
  • Transfer: 0:55 h | 48 km

Stage 2 takes runners on a journey through the heart of Cres, showcasing the island’s agricultural heritage and traditional way of life. The route meanders through ancient olive groves, where centuries-old trees stand as testaments to the island’s history. Intricate dry-stone walls, built without mortar and crisscrossing the landscape, are a defining feature of this stage, demonstrating the ingenuity and hard work of past generations. Runners will also traverse serene trails, offering moments of tranquility and connection with nature. A highlight of this stage is the picturesque ridge-top village of Lubenice, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the sea. The stage offers a balanced mix of inland paths, winding through the island’s interior, and coastal paths, providing breathtaking views of the coastline. The stage concludes in the seaside village of Martinščica, known for its beautiful bay and relaxed atmosphere.

Stage Three

March 4 2026

Martinšćica - Nerezine

Course

  • Distance: 36.7 km
  • Elevation gain: 945 m
  • Start: 9:30
  • Time limit: 8:00 h
  • Finish: 17:30

Feed Zones

  • Feed Zone 1: 10.7 km
  • Feed Zone 2: 26.1 km
  • Finish 36.7 km

Transfer

  • Departure to start: 8:00
  • Transfer: 0:55 h | 48 km
  • Departure from finish: 15:00 - 17:00
  • Transfer: 0:25 h | 20 km

This stage takes runners across a diverse range of landscapes, showcasing the untouched beauty of both Cres and Lošinj. The route traverses rolling hills, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and the expansive Kvarner Bay. A significant moment in this stage is the crossing from Cres to Lošinj at the historic town of Osor, which sits on a narrow isthmus connecting the two islands. The stage also includes a challenging climb up Osoršćica, the highest peak on Lošinj. From the summit, runners are rewarded with sweeping vistas of the archipelago. The stage finishes in the village of Nerezine, located on the coast of Lošinj.

Stage Four

March 5 2026

Nerezine - Mali Lošinj

Course

  • Distance: 21 km
  • Elevation gain: 420 m
  • Start: 10:00
  • Time limit: 5:00 h
  • Finish: 15:00

Feed Zones

  • Feed Zone 1: 10.6 km
  • Finish 21 km

Transfer

  • Departure to start: 8:00
  • Transfer: 0:25 h | 20 km
  • Departure from finish: short walk
  • Transfer: 0:15 h | 1.5 km

Stage 4 presents a blend of rugged coastal paths, demanding focus and agility, and more gentle forest trails, offering a change of pace. The route guides runners towards Mali Lošinj, the largest town on the island. Mali Lošinj is known for its vibrant port, bustling with activity, its colorful waterfront, lined with charming buildings, and its lively atmosphere, offering a contrast to the more secluded villages encountered in previous stages. Despite its name, Mali Lošinj (“Little Lošinj”) is the largest town on the Croatian islands. It was built by the famed Lošinj seafarers, shipbuilders and shipowners. When “the golden age of sailing ships” ended in the late 19th century, their spacious houses were converted into hotels for the Viennese aristocracy wishing to tend to their health in Lošinj’s healing (micro)climate.

Stage Five

March 6 2026

Mali Lošinj - Mali Lošinj

Course

  • Distance: 34 km
  • Elevation gain: 784 m
  • Start: 10:00
  • Time limit: 6:30 h
  • Finish: 16:30

Feed Zones

  • Feed Zone 1: 15.2 km
  • Feed Zone 2: 22.7 km
  • Feed Zone 3: 29.4 km
  • Finish 34 km

Transfer

  • Departure to start: short walk
  • Transfer: 0:15 h | 1.5 km
  • Departure from finish: short walk
  • Transfer: 0:15 h | 1.5 km

The final stage is a loop that explores the southern part of Lošinj. This stage features scenic promenades, perfect for enjoying the coastal scenery, fragrant pine forests, providing shade and a refreshing aroma, and crystal-clear bays, inviting a post-race dip in the Adriatic. The loop eventually returns to Mali Lošinj, concluding the race in the heart of the town, where runners can celebrate their achievement and enjoy the festivities.