About the Race
The Behobia - San Sebastián is Spain's most legendary popular race and one of the most important 20-kilometer events in the world. Since its first edition in 1919, this race has written some of the most emotional pages of Spanish popular athletics, becoming a tradition passed down through generations in the Basque Country and throughout Spain.
The concept is as simple as it is magical: run 20 kilometers from the French border at Behobia to the finish line in San Sebastián, one of Europe's most beautiful cities. The route follows the Bidasoa river and the Cantabrian coast, traversing spectacular green landscapes with the sea always as a reference point. The climbs at Gaintxurizketa and the descent into Donostia are part of the race's DNA and the stories of thousands of runners.
What makes the Behobia truly special is not just its route or its centennial history, but its atmosphere. The 30,000 participants turn the road into a multicolored human river advancing amid the applause and encouragement of thousands of spectators lining every village along the course. Groups of friends, txistulari musicians, brass bands and improvised aid stations set up by local residents create a festive atmosphere unmatched by any other Spanish race.
For many Basque runners, the Behobia is the race. No matter how many events they complete during the year: if they don't run the Behobia, the season is incomplete. This devotion is reflected in the fact that registrations sell out within hours, and securing a bib number has become an achievement almost as memorable as completing the race itself.
The Behobia is also a first-class competitive reference. Its international elite draws some of the continent's best middle-distance runners, and the course records rank among the fastest in the world at the 20K distance despite the rolling terrain.
Route & Course
The Behobia - San Sebastián route starts from the international bridge at Behobia, on the French border, and heads toward San Sebastián along the N-1 road and parallel paths. The first kilometers are slightly downhill following the Bidasoa valley. Around kilometer 6 begins the most demanding climb of the course, at Gaintxurizketa, with gradients reaching 6-8%. After the summit, the route descends toward the coast and the final kilometers run with views of the Cantabrian Sea before the final descent to the Boulevard in Donostia and the finish line near La Concha beach. Total positive elevation gain is around 200 meters. Aid stations are plentiful, approximately every 2.5 kilometers.
Tips
FAQ
How do I get to the start in Behobia?
The organization provides special buses from San Sebastián to Behobia on race day. You can also drive or use regular bus services. It is recommended to arrive at least one hour early.
Do I need a federation license to participate?
A federation license is not mandatory. Non-federated runners can participate by purchasing a day insurance offered during registration.
How fast do spots sell out?
Spots typically sell out within hours of registration opening. In recent editions, all 30,000 bibs have been claimed in under 24 hours.
Is there a bag drop service at the finish?
Yes, the organization provides a bag drop service at the finish area where you can collect the bag you hand in at the Behobia start. Bags are transported by truck to San Sebastián.
What is the time limit to finish?
The time limit is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes from the start. This margin is generous and allows completion at paces of 7:30 min/km or slower.
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