MIUT – Madeira Island Ultra-Trail 2026

MIUT 2026: Madeira’s Iconic Island Ultra-Trail Experience

MIUT – Madeira Island Ultra-Trail 2026 is confirmed for April 25–26, 2026 (the 17th edition), delivering Madeira’s signature coast-to-coast trail challenge across volcanic peaks, cloud forests, and famous levada paths. With multiple race formats from a shorter starter distance to the iconic long crossing, MIUT is one of the most compelling ways to experience this Atlantic island on foot, alongside a passionate local community of volunteers and mountain runners.

Madeira has a special reputation among trail runners. It’s an island where the terrain rises fast from sea level to high ridgelines, where laurel forests can feel prehistoric, and where narrow paths thread through terraces, tunnels, and levadas that once carried water across the mountains. MIUT takes those natural and cultural features and turns them into a weekend that feels both athletic and deeply place-based.

The official MIUT site frames the event as an “iconic mountain race” on Madeira, highlighting rugged trails, steep ascents, breathtaking landscapes, and a “coast to coast” journey. For travelers, that “coast to coast” concept is the hook. You’re not just racing in Madeira, you’re crossing the island and seeing how dramatically it changes from one side to the other.

Confirmed Dates for MIUT – Madeira Island Ultra-Trail 2026

MIUT’s 2026 dates are confirmed as April 25–26, 2026, publicized as the 17th edition of the event. If you’re planning flights and accommodation, that weekend is your anchor, especially because trail race weekends can fill hotels quickly in key towns.

Even if you are not racing, MIUT weekend is a fantastic time to visit the island because the atmosphere extends beyond the course. You’ll see runners in cafés, supporters in the streets, and a strong volunteer presence that gives the island a communal sports-festival feel.

Race Options: Distances and Elevation (Confirmed)

MIUT 2026 offers multiple race choices, and the official registration rate selection confirms the following race formats and elevation profiles:

• MIUT LEGEND: 110 km, 7200 D+
• MIUT ADVANCED: 80 km, 4800 D+
• MIUT DISCOVER: 56 km, 2800 D+
• MIUT MARATHON: 40 km, 1500 D+
• MIUT STARTER: 17 km, 500 D+

This variety is part of why MIUT works so well for island travel. Friends can come together, choose different distances based on their experience, and still share the same event week energy.

Entry Fees for MIUT 2026 (Confirmed Pricing Where Available)

MIUT entry pricing is visible on the official RockTheSport event pages, with prices shown in euros for several race categories. The Portuguese RockTheSport rate selection also shows at least one confirmed specific price point: MIUT LEGEND (110 km) listed at €155.00 on the tariff selection view.

Because pricing can vary by race, tier, and availability status, use the official RockTheSport event page to confirm the exact price for your chosen distance at the time you register. The rate selection view also indicates some categories can reach maximum registrations, which is common for popular island ultras and another reason to plan early.

The Island Backdrop: What Makes MIUT Uniquely “Madeira”

Madeira’s trail culture is shaped by geography. The island’s ridgelines, steep gradients, and microclimates mean you can move from warm coastal air into misty highlands quickly, sometimes within the same long climb. MIUT’s identity is tied to that dramatic variability and the feeling of earning every view.

The official MIUT site emphasizes a runner-first organization, with course marking, aid stations, safety teams, trail logistics, timing systems, and real-time tracking from start to finish. For travelers, this matters. On a rugged Atlantic island, strong logistics make the difference between a stressful trip and an unforgettable one.

Madeira Culture Around MIUT: Food, Community, and the Spectator Experience

Even if you arrive as a runner, you’ll leave with a deeper taste of Madeira. Trail weekends naturally push you into local food rhythms: early breakfasts, post-run comfort meals, and the celebratory feeling of finishing something hard on an island that rewards effort.

If you’re traveling as a supporter, MIUT can be a surprisingly fun spectator event. Madeira’s towns and road network make it possible to see runners at key points, then explore local markets, viewpoints, and seaside promenades between sightings. (Always follow official crew and spectator guidance for access, because mountain roads and parking can be limited.)

Practical Travel Tips for MIUT 2026 Visitors

Where to Stay on Madeira for MIUT

Madeira’s best base depends on your race distance and logistics, but in general:

• Funchal is ideal if you want restaurants, nightlife, and easy transport connections.
• Machico and the east can be convenient if your race logistics or finish plans point that way.
• Porto Moniz and the northwest are beautiful but more remote, ideal if you want quiet recovery and dramatic coastline.

If you’re unsure, choose Funchal for comfort and mobility, then day-trip to the coastlines as part of your race week.

Getting Around the Island

A rental car is often the simplest solution for trail travelers on Madeira, especially if you’re carrying gear and want to reach early bib pickup times or support points. If you’re traveling without a car, book transfers early and keep your schedule flexible, because rural routes can take longer than expected.

What to Pack for an Atlantic Island Ultra

• A breathable waterproof jacket and layers, because Madeira weather can change quickly.
• Trail shoes with reliable grip, as steep descents and wet surfaces are common on island terrain.
• A headlamp if your race involves low-light starts or finishes.
• A compact day bag for supporters with water, snacks, and a warm layer for higher viewpoints.

Planning Your MIUT Week: How to Turn a Race into an Island Trip

One of the best parts of traveling for MIUT is that Madeira rewards extra days. Consider arriving at least two days before your race to adjust to time zones, pick up your bib calmly, and explore without rushing. After your event, give yourself one full recovery day to enjoy the island slowly.

A simple Madeira plan around MIUT weekend:

• Day 1: Arrive, settle in, short walk along the coast.
• Day 2: Light sightseeing, early dinner, sleep.
• Day 3: Race day.
• Day 4: Recovery, ocean views, local food.
• Day 5: Levada walk or a scenic drive, then depart.

Verified Information at a Glance

Item: Confirmed details

Event name: MIUT – Madeira Island Ultra-Trail 2026

Event category: Trail running / ultra-trail event on Madeira Island

Confirmed 2026 dates: April 25–26, 2026 (17th edition communicated publicly)

Confirmed race options (distances): MIUT LEGEND 110 km; MIUT ADVANCED 80 km; MIUT DISCOVER 56 km; MIUT MARATHON 40 km; MIUT STARTER 17 km

Confirmed elevation (D+): 7200 D+ (110 km); 4800 D+ (80 km); 2800 D+ (56 km); 1500 D+ (40 km); 500 D+ (17 km)

Entry pricing: Official RockTheSport pages publish prices; MIUT LEGEND shows €155.00 in the tariff view, and additional “Preços” are listed by category on the official event page.

Organizer support features: Course marking, aid stations, volunteer and safety teams, timing systems, and runner tracking are emphasized on the official MIUT site.

If you want a 2026 race trip where the island itself is the main attraction, set your sights on Madeira for April 25–26, choose the MIUT distance that matches your legs and your ambition, and come ready to climb, descend, and celebrate with a community that turns rugged Atlantic trails into a once-a-year island pilgrimage.