Marathon de montagne de la Sainte-Croix

Gear up for a challenge that proves the “basics” of the Holy Cross Mountains can throw you around just as hard as the Tatras! The Holy Cross Mountain Marathon is a legendary race that runs through the heart of the Świętokrzyski National Park. The course is the essence of technical trail running: brutal climbs toward Święty Krzyż, treacherous, ever-shifting scree, all the way to the legendary Łysogóry range. Here, terrain changes every kilometer—from soft forest humus to exposed roots, culminating in sharp quartzite boulders that wait for a moment of inattention. It’s a race for those who love the ruggedness of nature and aren’t afraid to face the legends of witch Sabbaths 🏃‍♂️⛰️🧹.

When you finally swallow the last descent and your quads stop burning with that fierce heat, the region around Święta Katarzyna and Bodzentyn will welcome you in true royal style:

Święta Katarzyna and the Source of Saint Francis – located at the foot of Łysica, it’s the ideal spot for a first recovery stop. Legend says the spring water has healing powers—washing your face and legs after marathon dust is a ritual that brings incredible relief. The place exudes a calm you need after the battle on the course 💧🌿.

Święta Katarzyna Mineral and Fossil Museum – a peaceful stroll among showcases filled with extraordinary crystals and flaked silex (the stone of optimism!) is an excellent way to refocus. You’ll see the treasures hidden in the ground you were running on not long ago, without a moment to watch your feet 💎✨.

Ruins of Bodzentyn Castle – the monumental remains of the bishops of Kraków’s palace make a superb recovery walk. The austere walls against a setting sun create a mystical atmosphere, perfect for rethinking the miles you’ve logged 🏰🌅.

Kadzielnia Geopark in Kielce - if you swing by Kielce, stop by the Geoeducation Center. Modern exhibits and a stroll through the ancient Devonian ocean offer an intellectual recovery that lets you view the Holy Cross Mountains on a multimillion-year scale 🦖🌍.

After such effort, your body needs “rocket fuel.” The Holy Cross region has the goods: puchy (a regional potato pancake) and the legendary zalewajka+. But the real recovery hit is the pierogi with peas or traditional cabbage dishes. Add a glass of fresh orchard juice and you’ll feel your vitality return to your body 🍲🥟.

Remember that the Holy Cross Mountain Marathon is a race that stays in your heart and legs for a long time. It’s here that you’ll feel the mountain isn’t just about altitude, but primarily the character and difficulty of the terrain. Do you have the strength in you to take on Łysica? 🏁