La Filippide Race

The "Planata degli Iblei" is a point-to-point marathon designed like other famous Italian races (Padua, Treviso, Carpi, and Collemarathon), beginning in the uplands and descending toward the coast. Runners follow the SP n.10, which traces the route of an old railway line that once connected the mountain villages at a gentle pace.

The altimetry makes this course especially appealing: after a smooth, straight descent of 1–2%, you’ll reach Ragusa at 620 meters above sea level. Here, the Hyblaean plateau reveals its charm with sweeping tablelands framed by traditional dry stone walls, and the dramatic “Cave”—rocky canyons and wooded gorges—mark the landscape. Along the way, you’ll glimpse the fascinating Cava Volpe, Cava del Paradiso, Misericordia, and Cava Celone—each home to ancient necropolises and storied pasts.

Segments of the route overlap with the renowned Ragusa Marathon course, adding to the event’s heritage. While most of the descent is gentle, occasional short climbs (“mangia e bevi”) of 50–100 meters add variety to the terrain. Skirting the edges of Ragusa, the route continues through Contrada Majorana, crossing scenic plateaus laced with stone walls and historic farmhouses.

The course then dips into Tresauro for one of two main elevation changes: a 400-meter climb at 2.5%. Here, the countryside transitions into rolling hills, and the scent of the sea grows stronger. Another descent brings you through the Serramezzana plateau, including a brief stretch of unpaved road, culminating in a second notable rise—100 meters at 3–4%—before reaching the magnificent Donnafugata Castle. This enchanting manor evokes the atmosphere of “The Leopard” by Tomasi di Lampedusa and has been celebrated in many Italian films and television series, including “Inspector Montalbano.”

From Donnafugata Castle, the route winds gently downhill through olive and carob groves en route to Santa Croce Camerina, with a steady descent interrupted only by a short dirt section. The finish brings runners to the enchanting coastline at Punta Secca, home to the beloved House of Commissioner Montalbano.

Join us to celebrate the Olympic spirit, camaraderie, and the joy of running in a truly special setting—Happy to be there! Buona corsa to all who take part!