Running is a strange sport. Some people do it because they want to stay in shape. Others do it because they actually enjoy it, which is concerning. And then there’s ultra-trail running, which is for the truly unhinged—those who think running 168 kilometers across mountains, rivers, and medieval villages sounds like a good weekend.
Welcome to Istria 100 by UTMB, one of the toughest and most breathtaking trail races in Europe. If you’re a runner, this is your next challenge. If you’re a spectator, grab a drink and watch people question their life choices in real-time.
Event Details – When and Where the Madness Begins
This year’s Istria 100 by UTMB is happening from April 10 to April 13, 2025. The race takes runners through some of the most stunning, brutal, and rewarding terrain in Istria, covering ancient towns, rugged trails, and climbs that will make you rethink your fitness levels.
The Courses (or, how much pain do you want?)
- RED – 168 km (For people who don’t believe in sleep)
- BLUE – 110 km (Still insane, but slightly less so)
- GREEN – 69 km (A reasonable level of suffering)
- YELLOW – 42 km (A marathon, but with more hills and regret)
- WHITE – 21 km (A nice Sunday jog, except not really)
The race starts in different towns, like Labin, Buzet, Motovun, and Grožnjan, but every single one of them finishes in Umag—which, conveniently, is where you should be staying.
What Makes Istria 100 Special?
This isn’t just a race. It’s an adventure through Istria’s greatest landscapes. Here’s why you’ll love (and hate) every second of it:
🏔 Trail running paradise – Expect steep climbs, rocky descents, and paths that look like they belong in a fantasy novel.
🏰 Medieval towns along the way – You’ll pass through places like Motovun and Grožnjan, where you’ll be too exhausted to appreciate how beautiful they are.
🌊 Coastal finishes – Just when you think you can’t go any further, you’ll see the Adriatic Sea, which will either motivate you or make you want to collapse right there.
🌦 Unpredictable weather – Could be sunshine, rain, fog, or all three within an hour. Pack accordingly.
Why Stay in Umag for Istria 100?
Here’s why crashing in Umag is the smartest move:
✔ It’s the finish line. You’ll want a bed nearby when you cross it.
✔ The sea is right there. Perfect for a post-race ice bath, or just lying on the beach questioning why you signed up for this.
✔ Food. After burning a ridiculous number of calories, you’ll want fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and a glass of Istrian wine the size of your head.
Basically, staying anywhere but Umag makes about as much sense as running an ultra-marathon for fun.
Where to Stay – Petite Miranda, Because You’ll Need a Comfortable Bed
Once you’ve dragged yourself across the finish line, you’re going to need a place to recover—somewhere quiet, cozy, and close enough to the race so you don’t have to move too much.
That’s Petite Miranda.
✔ Perfect for runners – Quiet, comfortable, and ideal for recovery.
✔ Great for spectators – Easy access to the finish line, so you can watch exhausted runners stumble in.
✔ No Airbnb fees – Because saving money means more for post-race pizza and wine.
Book Direct & Save
Reserve your stay before it sells out, and you won’t have to worry about scrambling for accommodation while limping through Umag.
Survival Tips for Istria 100 by UTMB
✅ Register early – This race fills up faster than your lungs will at kilometer 120.
✅ Pack for anything – One minute it’s sunny and perfect, the next you’re in a foggy, wet nightmare.
✅ Explore Umag – After the race, take a break from running and actually enjoy the town like a normal human being.
Final Thought – Just Do It (And Then Take a Very Long Nap)
Istria 100 by UTMB isn’t just a race. It’s an experience that will break you down and build you back up again. It’s the kind of event that leaves you with aching legs, an exhausted smile, and a medal you’ll want to show off forever.
So whether you’re running, watching, or just here for the post-race food, Umag is the place to be.
Book your stay at Petite Miranda and make sure your race weekend is as comfortable as possible—at least once you cross the finish line.
