Świętokrzyski Mountain Marathon 2026

Get ready for a challenge that proves that the “low” Świętokrzyskie Mountains can hit just as hard as the Tatras! The Świętokrzyski Mountain Marathon is a legendary race that cuts through the heart of the Świętokrzyski National Park. The route is the essence of technical trail running: from the murderous climbs up Święty Krzyż, through treacherous, shifting boulder fields, all the way to the legendary Łysogóry range. Here the ground changes every kilometer—from soft forest litter, to protruding roots, to sharp quartzite rocks just waiting for a moment of inattention. This is a run for those who love nature’s rawness and aren’t afraid to face the legends of witches’ sabbaths 🏃‍♂️⛰️🧹.

Once you’ve conquered the final descent and your quads stop burning with living fire, the region around Święta Katarzyna and Bodzentyn will welcome you in truly royal style:

Święta Katarzyna and St. Francis’s Spring – nestled at the foot of Łysica, it’s the perfect place for the first stage of recovery. According to legend, the spring water has healing power—washing your face and legs with it after the marathon dust is a ritual that brings incredible relief. The place radiates the calm you need after the battle on the course 💧🌿.

The Museum of Minerals and Fossils in Święta Katarzyna – a peaceful stroll among display cases filled with extraordinary crystals and banded flint (the stone of optimism!) is a great way to unwind. You’ll see the treasures hidden in the earth you were running over just moments ago, with no time to watch your step 💎✨.

The Ruins of Bodzentyn Castle – the monumental remains of the palace of the bishops of Kraków make a perfect destination for a recovery walk. Stark walls against the setting sun create a mystical atmosphere, ideal for reflecting on the kilometers you’ve covered 🏰🌅.

The Kadzielnia Geopark in Kielce - if you’re heading back via Kielce, stop by the Geoeducation Center. Modern exhibits and a walk along the floor of a former Devonian sea offer an intellectual reset that lets you view the Świętokrzyskie Mountains through the lens of millions of years 🦖🌍.

After such an effort, your body needs “rocket fuel.” The Świętokrzyskie region has puchy (a regional dish made from grated potatoes) and the legendary zalewajka up its sleeve. But the real recovery hit is dumplings with broad beans or traditional cabbage dishes. Add a glass of fresh juice from local orchards, and you can feel your vital strength returning to your body 🍲🥟.

Remember: the Świętokrzyski Mountain Marathon is a race that stays in your heart—and in your legs—for a long time. This is where you’ll feel that mountains aren’t only about elevation above sea level, but above all about character and the toughness of the terrain. Do you have enough strength in you to face Łysica? 🏁