From Peaks to Pavements: Our Guide to Sporting Events in Wales 2026

Wales is more than just a landscape of mountains and coastlines; it is a world-class arena for athletes and adventure seekers. Whether you are looking to push your physical limits or simply soak up the electric atmosphere as a spectator, 2026 is set to be a monumental year for sport.

With Dioni holiday cottages located in the heart of these sporting hubs – from the rugged north to the golden south – you can enjoy the perfect blend of high-octane action and a relaxing home-from-home.

Here is your month-by-month guide to the biggest events of the year.

Spring: Coastal Runs and Heritage Traditions

As the wildflowers begin to bloom, the racing season kicks off with scenic road runs and unique rural traditions.

• Jones o Gymru Anglesey Half Marathon (March 1): Famous for its start on the Menai Suspension Bridge, this is one of the world’s most beautiful closed-road races.
• St David’s Day Pilgrims Half (March 1): A soulful trail run along the ancient pilgrim paths of the Llŷn Peninsula.
• Barley Saturday, Cardigan (April 25): A unique spectator event featuring a parade of majestic stallions and traditional horsemanship through the streets of Cardigan.

Summer: The “Season of Iron” and Mountain Trails

The warmer months bring the heavy hitters – triathlons and endurance tests that draw thousands of visitors to the Welsh coast.

The North: Peaks and Bays

• THE ROC Wales, Abersoch (May 8): A brutal “Face-to-Face” race: swim the bay, cycle to Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), summit on foot, and return.
• Abersoch 10k & Beach Race (May 30): A fantastic family-friendly weekend on the sand.
• The Slateman Triathlon, Llanberis (June 14): An iconic race set against the backdrop of the historic slate quarries.
• Snowdonia Trail Marathon Eryri (July 11–12): A legendary mountain run over the slopes of Wales’ highest peak.

The South: The Triple Crown of Tenby

• Long Course Weekend, Tenby (June 26–28): One of Europe’s biggest multi-sport festivals. Choose to swim, bike, or run – or do all three over three days.
• The Wales Sportive (June 27): Part of the Long Course Weekend, this is the only televised cycle sportive in the UK with fully closed roads through Pembrokeshire.

Late Summer & Autumn: Speed, Strength, and Spirit

As the season peaks, we see the return of world-class motorsport and the most famous triathlon on the planet.

• Tour de Môn, Anglesey (August 23): A premier cycling sportive taking in the entire perimeter of the island.
• Rali Ceredigion, Cardigan/Aberystwyth (September 3–6): Now a round of the FIA European Rally Championship, bringing world-class tarmac rallying to the country lanes.
• Ironman Wales, Tenby (September 13): The big one. The sunrise swim at North Beach, preceded by 2,000 athletes singing the Welsh National Anthem, is a spine-tingling experience you have to see to believe.
• Dioni Abersoch Coast Trail (September 18): We are proud sponsors of this rugged, beautiful trail run along the Llyn Coastal Path.
• Superfeet Sandman Triathlon (September 27): A stunning season-closer in Newborough Forest and Llanddwyn Beach.
• Marathon Eryri / Snowdonia Marathon (October 24): Voted the best marathon in the UK on multiple occasions, this demanding course circles the mass of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), finishing with a legendary descent into Llanberis. It is a true test of endurance in a breathtaking setting. Top Tip for Guests: The Marathon Eryri is so popular that entry is usually via a ballot or sells out within minutes! If you have secured a place, we recommend booking your Llanberis and Eryri accommodation as early as possible.

Plan Your Sporting Escape

Whether you’re competing or supporting from the sidelines, your recovery starts with a great night’s sleep. Dioni offers luxury cottages perfectly positioned for every event.

Book your 2026 sporting stay today at Dioni.co.uk!