XTERRA Lake Scanno

XTERRA arrives at the heart-shaped lake

In the heart of the Abruzzo mountains, Lake Scanno — world-renowned for its unmistakable heart shape — provides the backdrop for XTERRA Lake Scanno, the Italian stage of the prestigious international XTERRA off-road triathlon circuit. In the town of Scanno, in the province of L'Aquila and the heart of Abruzzo, the lake becomes the stage for one of the most fascinating and grueling multisport competitions in Europe, with a start from the shores and climbs toward the trails and ridges of the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park.

Cross triathlon between lake and mountain

The XTERRA format combines three disciplines into a single course: open water swimming in the cold, crystal-clear waters of the lake, mountain biking on dirt tracks that climb toward the ski slopes, and trail running on the technical paths of the Abruzzo mountains. The race has built its reputation as one of the toughest in Europe, with long, steep climbs reaching demanding altitudes above the village.

• Olympic Distance (M): 1.5 km swim, 30 km mountain bike, 10 km run;
• Sprint (S): 750 m swim, 12 km mountain bike, 5 km run;
• Super Sprint (XS): 400 m swim, 10 km mountain bike, 2 km run;
• Open Water Swims: open water swimming competitions on the lake;
• XTERRA Kids: events dedicated to younger athletes.

An international event

XTERRA Lake Scanno attracts athletes from over thirty countries every year, with constant growth edition after edition. The event is organized by XTERRA Italy with the support of the Municipality of Scanno and the Abruzzo Region, which has included the event in a broader project to promote outdoor sports and inland areas, alongside the events in Ovindoli and Roccaraso.

Scanno, one of Italy's most beautiful villages

Beyond the competition, XTERRA Lake Scanno is an opportunity to discover one of Italy's most beautiful villages: stone alleys, traditional costumes, the famous presentosa (the jewelry of Scanno), and a mountain gastronomy featuring cheeses, lamb, and local bread. The combination of international sport, the nature of the Park, and Abruzzo identity makes this event a unique experience for both athletes and spectators.