Çatalkaya Ultra 2026
İzmir is best known for its sunlit waterfront, lively cafes, and relaxed Aegean lifestyle. But beyond the coastline lies a very different landscape of rugged mountains, pine forests, and winding trails. On November 20–22, 2026, Çatalkaya Ultra will invite runners to discover this wilder side of the city, bringing five trail races to Balçova Therapy Forest, where steep climbs and rocky ridges will rise above the Gulf of İzmir.
The event will offer five distances, each with its own character and challenge. The 74K Path of Patience, featuring approximately 3,300 meters of elevation gain, will be the ultimate endurance test. Runners will tackle steep ascents, technical trails, and demanding descents, passing through the vineyards of Kavacık Village before continuing toward Çatalkaya Summit, where sweeping views of the Gulf of İzmir will reward the climb. The 45K Path of Ascent, with 2,200 meters of elevation gain, will offer another serious mountain challenge, while the 29K Commando Path, climbing 1,600 meters, will test strength and concentration through forest terrain. The 14K Path of Agamemnon and 5K Green Path will provide shorter opportunities to experience the trails, with elevation gains of 750 and 300 meters, respectively.
Beyond the competition, Çatalkaya Ultra will reveal a side of İzmir many international visitors may never expect. The forests of Balçova, the rocky heights of Narlıdere, and the vineyards and stone houses of Kavacık Village will bring together mountain scenery, rural traditions, and the natural beauty of the Aegean. As November settles over the region, runners will encounter the changing colors of autumn, fresh forest air, and dramatic views stretching toward the sea.
There will be plenty to discover beyond the trails. Visitors can unwind at Balçova's thermal baths, explore the historic streets and markets of Kemeraltı, visit the Agora of Smyrna, or enjoy sunset walks along Kordon. İzmir's food culture will add another reason to stay, with boyoz, a flaky local breakfast pastry; kumru, a toasted sandwich served in sesame-crusted bread; and Aegean specialties featuring fresh herbs, artichokes, and olive oil.
The runners will come for the mountains, but İzmir will offer plenty of reasons to stay after the finish line. From quiet vineyard villages to seaside cafes and golden sunsets over the gulf, Çatalkaya Ultra will reveal an Aegean escape where the adventure continues long after the running stops.