Donostia Triathlon 2026

Spain invites you to its most beautiful bay! 😇

The Donostia Triathlon - Memorial Onditz is not just a competition; it’s a historic monument of the Spanish Basque Country 😎. Held every year under the sunshine of June in the province of Gipuzkoa, it has established itself as a must-do event for all triathletes 🌍. Here, nothing is done halfway: it’s simply the oldest Olympic-distance triathlon in all of Spain. Here, the menu is simple: you can only be “served” one distance: 1.5 km of swimming, 40 km of cycling, and 10 km of running. No need for other races—the Triathlon of Donostia (San Sebastian) stands on its own 🥰. No need for superfluous gadgets—the purity of the sport is what matters 💪.

The setting? Imagine a natural amphitheater where the ocean meets the city 🏙️. It all begins with a dip into the famous La Concha Bay (or the shell bay for purists). It’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful swim starts in the world 🤩. You swim in sheltered water, framed by the hills and Santa Clara Island. Far from the oppressive vibe of some lake starts 🫣. Here, the view of the city from the water is a moment of grace—even if the pack quickly brings you back to reality if you don’t swim straight! 😅

Once the transition is done, the bike course takes you to discover the roots of the region 📍. You leave the seafront to head into the Basque hinterland. The profile lives up to the region’s reputation: rolling ⛰️. This isn’t a section for those who like a flat ride with a sea view 🌊; you need to know how to kick and manage your power on the climbs 📈. Every turn offers a new viewpoint of the surrounding mountains before descending back toward the coast 🏖️.

The atmosphere in San Sebastián is also part of the event’s DNA 🤪. The whole city lives to the rhythm of the athletes. If you come with company, your loved ones won’t have time to get bored 😍. Between family outings on Ondarreta beach or exploring the city’s leafy parks, there’s no shortage of things to do ☝️. You can also climb to the top of Mount Igueldo via its vintage funicular 🚠 for a panoramic view, or explore the Miramar Palace and its gardens overlooking the sea 🏰. For the more curious, the city’s Aquarium is a must 🐠, as is a walk along the harbor, ice cream in hand (for recovery) 🍦, to watch the traditional fishing boats. We’re not only here to sweat—we’re here to live the Donostia experience to the fullest. 💛

Adjust your goggles, check your tire pressure, and get ready to enter the legend of Basque triathlon! 😉