Marathon del Gargano

The Marathon del Gargano

The Marathon del Gargano is a premier mountain bike gran fondo held in Monte Sant'Angelo, in the province of Foggia, deep within the Gargano National Park. Organized by the ASD MTB Monte Sant'Angelo, the event is one of the most anticipated stages of the Challenge XCP MTB Puglia, the regional cross-country marathon circuit.

Two routes through the Gargano forests

The race features two off-road tracks starting from the historic center of the Gargano town: the Marathon, spanning approximately 62 kilometers with 1600 meters of elevation gain, and the Mediofondo, covering about 49-50 kilometers with 1150 meters of elevation gain. Both routes share the most iconic section: a climb to Monte Spigno, the highest point of the race at 1,000 meters, before diving into Bosco Quarto, a mix of fast descents, challenging climbs, rocky terrain, roots, and gravel.

The Two UNESCO Sites Trophy

The event is linked to the Two UNESCO Sites Trophy, sponsored by the AVIS section of Monte Sant'Angelo, celebrating the territory's two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo and the Foresta Umbra. Winners receive a statue of San Michele Arcangelo, while category leaders are awarded local Gargano delicacies.

An event for the region

Beyond the competition, the Marathon del Gargano promotes sports tourism and the natural beauty of the Gargano region in Puglia. The town of Monte Sant'Angelo, with its sanctuary and UNESCO-listed historic center, provides the perfect backdrop for a day that blends sport, nature, and tradition along the trails of the Gargano.

Past editions

Reaching its eighth edition in 2025, held on October 5th with a start in Piazza Beneficenza, the Marathon del Gargano has grown over the years to become a highlight of the Challenge XCP MTB Puglia. The 2026 edition took place on Sunday, June 21st, as one of the most anticipated stages on the regional circuit.