Maratona do Algarve
Next race
Wednesday, 25 November 2026
9:00 am start
Distance
42.195 km / 26.2 mi
Scenic coastal road
Elevation
Rolling · 100 m gain
100 m climbing
Race profile
Overview
The Maratona do Algarve draws approximately 1,500 finishers each November on a scenic coastal road in Vilamoura, Portugal. It is a late-season warm-weather option for European runners. The route passes marina roads, resort zones, and Algarve coastal scenery. Gentle undulations are the only breaks on an otherwise flat profile.
Maratona do Algarve is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
- Typical participants
Approximately 1,500 finishers
- Weather
Course & terrain
Maratona do Algarve course
Starts and finishes in the Vilamoura resort area. The route passes marina roads, resort zones, and Algarve coastal scenery. Mostly flat with gentle undulations. Very flat throughout.
The Maratona do Algarve course is rolling over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 100 metres of climbing and 95 metres of descent, with a net climb of 5 metres from start to finish.
- Elevation
Rolling · 100 m gain — approx. 18 m above sea level
↑ 100 m · ↓ 95 m · net +5 m
Registration
Maratona do Algarve entry requirements
The Maratona do Algarve uses open online registration at algarvemarathon.com with no ballot or qualifying time for the general field. Sign-up for the November race typically opens the previous year and places are allocated first-come, first-served. Charity bibs are available through partner organisations when general entry closes.
Getting there
Maratona do Algarve travel
- Closest airport
Faro (FAO)
Faro - Gago Coutinho International Airport
15 km / 9 mi
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Maratona do Algarve elevation profile?
- The Maratona do Algarve has 100 metres of total climbing and 95 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling, with 5 metres of net climb from start to finish.
- How long is the Maratona do Algarve?
- The Maratona do Algarve is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Coastal course starting and finishing in the Vilamoura resort area.
- What time does the Maratona do Algarve start?
- The 2026 Maratona do Algarve starts at 9:00 am local time on Wednesday, 25 November 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Where does the Maratona do Algarve start and finish?
- Starts and finishes in the Vilamoura resort area. Updated each year.
- When is the Maratona do Algarve and how do I register?
- Maratona do Algarve is typically held in November. Registration opens may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.
- Is the Maratona do Algarve course flat?
- Yes. Maratona do Algarve is known for a largely flat profile with only minor undulations, making it popular with runners chasing steady pacing.
- What landmarks does the Maratona do Algarve pass?
- The route passes marina roads, resort zones, and Algarve coastal scenery.
- What weather should runners expect at Maratona do Algarve?
- Usually mild with sun, dry air, and some coastal breeze.
Official resources
Maratona do Algarve links
Websites
Social Media
Last updated 11 October 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
Close to this race
Nearby Marathons
Other races closest to Vilamoura.
Casablanca Marathon
The Casablanca Marathon attracts approximately 5,000 finishers each October through Morocco's largest city on the Atlantic coast. The course passes the Hassan II Mosque — one of the world's largest — the Corniche waterfront, and the Art Deco downtown district. October's mild Atlantic weather and flat coastal terrain make it North Africa's premier mass-participation marathon.
Next race: Sunday, 25 October 2026
Planning guides
Related guides
Practical guides to help you plan, train for, and run this race.

Marathon Course Profiles Explained
What flat, rolling, and hilly really mean — and how to read elevation gain, net change, and altitude on a marathon course.

Marathon Weather: What to Expect
How temperature, humidity, wind, and rain affect marathon performance — and how to use typical race-day weather when choosing a start line.

How to Choose a Marathon
Match a race to your goals — personal bests, sightseeing, atmosphere, or a major milestone — using course data and realistic expectations.






