The historic road race in the heart of the Abruzzo National Park
The Ecolonga of Pescasseroli is one of the longest-running and most cherished road races in Abruzzo. Every summer, it draws hundreds of athletes and enthusiasts to Pescasseroli, in the province of L'Aquila, to compete along a course immersed in the nature of the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park. The event, reaching its 37th edition in 2026, is organized by ASD Pescasseroli with the support of local associations and the Municipality.
The track measures approximately 10.7 kilometers with a total elevation gain of about 250 meters. The race alternates between asphalt and dirt sections, passing through residential areas, forests, and open spaces in a unique natural setting. The start is set in Piazza Sant'Antonio, in the heart of the village, before the climb toward the Fontana della Difesa, where the first dirt section begins to test the runners. The descent through the woods finally leads to the stretch toward Fonte Fracassi, a flat area that challenges the legs after much exertion.
More than just a race, the Ecolonga is a celebration of sport and the mountains, blending competition with a love for the environment. The route winds through the ancient beech forests of the Park, offering participants direct contact with one of Italy's most precious natural landscapes. Three refreshment points are set up along the course, while a rich buffet awaits the competitors at the finish line.
The Ecolonga is included in the regional FIDAL calendar and the Corrimaster, Corri Marsica, and Corri l'Abruzzo UISP circuits. Nearly forty years of history are no coincidence: the event has become a staple of Abruzzo running, capable of attracting athletes from all over the region and beyond.
Pescasseroli is one of the iconic villages of the Abruzzo mountains, the historic capital of the National Park and home to the philosopher Benedetto Croce. Running the Ecolonga means experiencing the village and its nature from a privileged perspective, amidst a tradition of running, hospitality, and the pristine beauty of the Upper Sangro Valley.
The 37th edition of the Ecolonga of Pescasseroli is scheduled for Saturday, July 11, 2026. The meeting point is set for 2:30 PM in Piazza Sant'Antonio, with the official start at 5:30 PM. The course, 10.7 km long with about 250 meters of elevation gain, crosses the heart of the Abruzzo National Park, alternating between asphalt and dirt sections.
The race is included in the FIDAL regional calendar and the Corrimaster, Corri Marsica, and Corri l'Abruzzo UISP circuits. Three refreshment points are planned along the route, along with a rich buffet at the finish. Prizes will be awarded to the top five finishers in the general FIDAL ranking and the winners of each category.
Pescasseroli can be reached by car from the A25 motorway (Pescina or Cocullo exit) by continuing along the SS83 Marsicana. It is not directly served by rail: the nearest station is Avezzano, from where you can continue by bus or car.
The registration fee is 12 euros (including a race pack for the first 300 registrants) or 5 euros without a race pack. For information and registration: [email protected].
Given the village's altitude (about 1,167 m) and the late afternoon start, appropriate clothing and good hydration are recommended. Three refreshment stations are planned along the route.
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Piazza Sant'Antonio