Torre (Portugal) - "Terra de Gigantes Ultramarathon". It’s not just another ultramarathon. It’s a long journey between the highest point in mainland Portugal and the Atlantic Ocean, in this case, Nazaré. A journey of astonishment, of encounter, of contact with traditions, but also of faith - without the need to be a believer. It will be a very special time. Crossing a country, in this case, Portugal, from east to west is guaranteed to be a huge journey and an extraordinary experience. The challenge of crossing Portugal from east to west, from the highest point in the country to the beach with the biggest waves in the world, is necessarily for giants. But it’s more. It’s a bit more than effort and glory. It’s courage, management, and a lot of resilience along the paths that take them from the Serra da Estrela to the isolated and beautiful Schist Villages in Lousã. It’s paths of faith around Fátima Sanctuary that will take you to the magnificent and gigantic waves of Nazaré. It will be at the beginning of winter and, traditionally, a time of very low temperatures and rain. Starting at the highest point in Portugal means beginning the challenge with negative temperatures and, who knows, snow. It’s this set of factors, associated with the distance and unevenness, that will make you a giant. www.horizontes.pt/en/terra-de-gigantes

Funchal, Madeira (Portugal) - "Maratona do Funchal". Race day kicks off with the marathon at 07:00, followed by the mini marathon at 08:30, and the half marathon at 09:00, with a 6‑hour cutoff for the full distance. The picturesque seaside cityscape, supportive festival atmosphere, and mild January climate make it a festive and scenic winter racing experience. www.madeiramarathon.com