Manisa Ultra Marathon 2026
In Manisa, the ground tells two very different stories. One is written in lava. The other is in the stones of an ancient kingdom.
On November 20–22, 2026, the Manisa Ultra Marathon will take runners through these remarkable chapters of western Anatolia, bringing five trail races to the volcanic landscapes of Kula and the ancient ruins of Sardis. From dark lava fields and unusual rock formations to the remains of one of the ancient world's wealthiest civilizations, the event will offer a running experience shaped by millions of years of geology and thousands of years of human history.
The competition will begin on November 21 in Kula, within the UNESCO-recognized Kula-Salihli Global Geopark. The flagship 55K Katakekaumene, featuring approximately 1,272 meters of elevation gain, will challenge experienced runners across demanding volcanic terrain, surrounded by ancient lava flows, fairy chimney formations, and dramatic basalt landscapes. The name Katakekaumene, meaning “Burned Land,” will echo the region's volcanic past. The 35K Vulcanus, with 845 meters of climbing, will offer another demanding route through the area's extraordinary geology. For those seeking a shorter challenge, the 10K Divlit, featuring 306 meters of elevation gain, will introduce runners to the volcanic scenery of Divlit Volcanic Park, including its distinctive wooden walkways.
On November 22, the event will move to Sardis, the former capital of the ancient Lydian Kingdom. The 18K Tmolos, with approximately 760 meters of climbing, will take runners past historical landmarks associated with the ancient city, including the Temple of Artemis, burial monuments, historic villages, and the remains of Sart Castle. The 7K Gyges, featuring 345 meters of elevation gain, will offer a shorter run-or-walk experience suitable for participants seeking a more relaxed pace.
Sardis will add an extraordinary historical dimension to the weekend. Once the capital of a kingdom renowned for its wealth and early coinage, the city and the nearby Lydian Tumuli of Bin Tepe became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2025. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover a landscape where ancient temples, monumental tombs, and archaeological remains still reveal the ambitions of a civilization that helped shape the ancient world.
Beyond the races, Manisa will offer plenty of reasons to extend the visit. Travelers can explore Kula's historic Ottoman houses, discover the remarkable rock formations of the volcanic geopark, or wander through the archaeological remains of Sardis. The region's culinary traditions will add another layer to the experience, with Salihli odun köftesi, wood-fire-grilled meatballs; Kula güveci, a slow-cooked lamb casserole prepared in a clay pot; and Şekerli Kula pidesi, a sweet, oven-baked pastry filled with tahini and sugar.
For runners, Manisa Ultra Marathon will offer two very different challenges: the raw terrain of ancient volcanoes and the historic paths of a lost kingdom. For those traveling alongside them, the weekend will open a door to one of the Aegean region's most surprising landscapes, where volcanic earth, ancient ruins, and local traditions will make the journey worth taking long after the racing ends.