Overview
The San Sebastián Marathon (Donostia Marathon) draws about 3,000 finishers each November along the Basque Country's stunning Bay of Biscay coast. The course passes La Concha beach, the Kursaal Congress Centre, and the Gros district with views of green hills and the Cantabrian Sea. November cool weather and rolling coastal terrain make it one of Spain's most scenic regional marathons.
San Sebastián Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
San Sebastián Marathon 2026 race day
The next San Sebastián Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 15 November 2026 with a 8:30 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 150 m of climbing on a rolling with coastal hills layout.
San Sebastián Marathon course route
The San Sebastian Marathon is a coastal Basque loop starting and finishing near the Kursaal Congress Centre on Zurriola beach, following La Concha bay past Monte Urgull and the Parte Vieja before reaching the Gros and Igueldo coastal roads. The bay-level sections are the easiest because they stay relatively sheltered and flowing, while the headland climbs on the Gros and Igueldo roads are the tougher defining feature of the second half. Spectator support is strongest around the Kursaal, along La Concha, and through the Parte Vieja finish corridor.
San Sebastián Marathon elevation profile
The San Sebastián Marathon course is rolling with coastal hills over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 150 metres of climbing and 140 metres of descent, with a net climb of 10 metres from start to finish.
San Sebastián Marathon course video
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
Half marathon of San Sebastián - The course
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the San Sebastián Marathon elevation profile?
- The San Sebastián Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling with coastal hills, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
- How long is the San Sebastián Marathon?
- The San Sebastián Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Coastal course starts and finishes near the Kursaal Congress Centre on Zurriola beach.
- What time does the San Sebastián Marathon start?
- The 2026 San Sebastián Marathon starts at 8:30 am local time on Sunday, 15 November 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.sansebastianmarathon.com/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- What beaches does the San Sebastián Marathon pass?
- The course passes La Concha and Zurriola beaches along the Bay of Biscay, with views of Monte Urgull and the old town.
- Is the San Sebastián Marathon hilly?
- Yes. The Basque coastal roads have rolling climbs around the bay and headlands. It is scenic but not a flat personal-best course.
- Where does the San Sebastián Marathon finish?
- The finish is near the Kursaal Congress Centre on the Zurriola beachfront.
- What is San Sebastián weather like in November?
- November is cool and often wet on the Cantabrian coast, typically 10–15 °C (50–59 °F). Rain gear for before and after the race is advisable.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
