Bela Krajina Cup

Bela Krajina Cup: Three challenges, one unforgettable story

Combine the speed of the city streets, the wildness of the ski slopes, and the tranquillity of unspoilt nature.
The Bela Krajina Cup is a sporting journey through the heart of Bela Krajina. We've brought together three of the most recognisable running events into a single experience that combines local energy, sporting spirit and stunning scenery.

Calendar of events 2026

1. Night Run Metlika | 30 May at 21.30

Adrenaline under the stars. The Night Run brings the unique experience of covering kilometres under the glow of street lamps and starry skies.

• The atmosphere: the course takes you through the Old Town, where the footsteps and cheers of the supporters echo from the local pubs. Running in the cooler evening air after a hot May day is a balm for runners looking for speed and an unforgettable city vibe.

• A social event: Metlika with its millennia of history and hospitality, the sporting challenge ends with a relaxed get-together in the city squares.

• Distances: 4 km and 8 km ( 8 km counts for the Cup).

Gas na Gače | 4th July

A mountain challenge in the embrace of the Kočevski Rog: As summer turns to July, the cross-country caravan moves to the highest point of the Cup - the Gače Ski Centre. This challenge is a feast for the eyes and the lungs, as it takes place in the shade of the mighty forests, where the air is always fresh.

• The 13 km route takes you through rugged terrain, where soft forest paths alternate with more challenging climbs and fast descents.

• The experience: during the run, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Bela Krajina fields, the Gorjanci Mountains, and neighbouring Croatia. The dynamic route will delight both "trail" runners and recreational runners who want to escape the heat of the valley.

Lahinja Trail | 7 November

The Green Jewel: Autumn colouring of nature in the Landscape Park Lahinja sets the scene for the last challenge of the season. The run follows the lazy course of a river through peaceful forests and villages.

• Sustainability: We are proud that the event has received the Zero Waste (3-star) designation—the only one in Slovenia with this recognition!

• Distances: Republikanka (30 km), Velikobukovska (18 km), and Duma (10 km—counts toward the cup). Start in front of Dragatuš Elementary School.

2026 Competition System

The overall title of the Bela Krajina Cup champion is based on the combined times of the three key events, which emphasises the versatility of the runners - from speed on tarmac to endurance on trail terrain:

1. Night Run Metlika (8 km)

2. Gas na Gaze (13 km)

3. Lahinja Trail - Duma (10 km)

Registration and benefits

Secure your place on all three start lines with a single registration and take advantage of a discounted price!

• Bela Krajina Cup package (all 3 races): 62 €

• Entry deadline: 22 May 2026

REGISTER FOR THE BELA KRAJINA CUP

Why the Bela Krajina Cup?

• Three different surfaces: asphalt, mountain gravel, and forest trail.

• From the spring freshness of Metlika to the summer chill of Gaciai and the autumn calm of the Lahinja.

• Local soul: Each race reflects the authentic character of its environment - from Metlika's wine culture and wild nature with views of Gače to Dragatuš's connection to ecology and tradition.

You are invited to be part of a story where sport, nature, and local tradition come together in an unforgettable experience of Bela krajina.