Trail running course near Radda in Chianti, Tuscany, IT
Chianti Ultra Trail by UTMB

Chianti Ultra Trail by UTMB 75K

75K·577m gain·Radda in Chianti, Italy
ultramountaintrail

AI-generated image

Distance75K
Gain577m
DateMar 2026
Difficulty4/5

About This Race

The Chianti Ultra Trail 75K sits in the middle of the UTMB World Series lineup through Tuscany's storied wine country, bridging the gap between the shorter courses and the flagship ultra distance. Starting from the medieval hilltown of Radda in Chianti, runners navigate 75 kilometers of demanding terrain that weaves through centuries-old vineyards, chestnut forests, and ancient olive groves, with the course serving up continuous elevation changes that define the Chianti landscape. This distance attracts runners with solid ultra experience who want to engage seriously with the terrain without committing to the full 120K route. The race window allows for strategic pacing through the technical sections and enough recovery to enjoy the regional food and wine culture that makes Chianti races distinctive. With approximately 3 Running Stones in the UTMB World Series index, the 75K represents meaningful UTMB qualification potential for runners building toward Western States, UTMB Mont-Blanc, or other major international events.

The 75K route explores the heart of the Chianti Classico wine region, connecting medieval villages and working vineyards through trails that have served local communities for centuries. Runners encounter mixed surfaces throughout, from narrow dirt paths through oak and chestnut forests to exposed vineyard roads with commanding views across the Tuscan hills. The terrain demands continuous attention to footing, particularly on descents where loose stones and root systems require technical skill.

Mid-March timing means cooler temperatures and the possibility of muddy conditions, especially in forested sections where winter runoff lingers. The course includes several aid stations positioned in villages along the route, offering both standard ultra nutrition and regional specialties.

Elevation Profile

Elevation profile estimated from terrain data. Actual course may differ.

The course gains 577m over 75km, with the steepest section between km 70–km 71.

Location

Practical Info

Nearest Airport

FLR - Florence Airport

Accommodation

Radda in Chianti offers agriturismos, small hotels, and vacation rentals, though the medieval town center is compact with limited large-scale lodging. Many runners stay in nearby Siena (30km) or other Chianti villages with better access to accommodation, requiring rental car transportation to the race start.

Best For

destination runnerswine enthusiastscultural experience seekersintermediate to advanced trail runners

Notable Features

The Chianti Ultra Trail distinguishes itself through genuine cultural immersion in one of Europe's most celebrated wine regions. Unlike races that simply pass through scenic countryside, this course runs directly through working vineyards and production estates where Sangiovese grapes grow on the same hillsides runners climb. The medieval villages serving as course waypoints and aid stations retain their historical character, with cobblestone streets and stone towers that predate modern trail running by eight centuries. The race village atmosphere centers on regional food and wine rather than generic event expo culture, reflecting the Tuscan approach to hospitality that prioritizes quality and authenticity.

Other Distances at This Event

10K

47m gain

The route explores the characteristic Chianti terrain of mixed surfaces, including dirt paths between vine rows, connecting trails through oak and chestnut woods, and brief sections through historic village centers with their distinctive pietra serena stonework. Runners can expect the gentle undulations typical of Tuscan hills, though the 10K distance moderates the cumulative effect. The course showcases working vineyards and agricultural landscapes that define this UNESCO-recognized cultural zone.

21K

170m gain

The course explores the agricultural landscape surrounding Radda in Chianti, moving through the patchwork of vineyards, woodlands, and olive groves that define this wine-producing region. Runners can expect mixed terrain typical of Tuscan farmland, including dirt roads connecting estates, vineyard access paths, and forest trails through the oak and chestnut woods that separate cultivated areas. The route likely incorporates sections of the region's white roads, the unpaved limestone tracks called strade bianche that historically connected farms and villages across central Italy. Specific routing details and cumulative elevation are not published in advance. Runners should prepare for variable footing including compact dirt, loose gravel, and potentially muddy conditions depending on spring weather patterns.

46K

551m gain

The route departs Radda in Chianti and explores the forested hills and agricultural valleys that define central Tuscany. Trails pass through working vineyards where spring pruning is still underway, cross oak and chestnut forests, and touch on hamlets like Volpaia and Vertine that date to medieval times. The terrain switches frequently between maintained vineyard access roads and narrower woodland paths, with stream crossings and stone staircases adding technical variety. While complete course details remain subject to annual confirmation, the mixed terrain designation reflects the characteristic Chianti landscape: neither purely technical mountain running nor groomed trail racing, but rather a shifting combination that requires attention throughout. Navigation follows standard trail markings with course marshals at key junctions, though runners should expect some exposure to vehicle-accessible roads during village passages.

120K

5,200m gain

The flagship 4 Running Stone distance takes runners on an epic journey connecting Chianti's historic castles across 120 kilometers of demanding terrain. With 5200 meters of elevation gain, this race represents one of the more challenging offerings in the UTMB World Series, demanding both physical and mental fortitude.