XII Hotel CEMAR International Chess Open 2026 will take place from August 9–16, 2026 at Hotel CEMAR in Mondariz-Balneario, Spain. The festival combines a nine-round classical open and an associated blitz tournament.

Moreover, the classical open has nine Swiss-system rounds, while the blitz event has 11 rounds. Classical players receive 90 minutes plus a 30-second increment; the blitz uses 3 minutes plus 2 seconds. The organizer runs both events under the applicable federation and FIDE rules.

In addition, the program lets participants combine a week of classical chess with a separate speed-chess event at the same property.

Meanwhile, the hotel houses the playing rooms, accommodation, restaurant and leisure facilities in one complex. Mondariz-Balneario lies inland from Vigo and connects by road with Ponteareas and other towns in southern Galicia.

Therefore, players should review the registration rules, schedule, accommodation conditions and official documents before making travel arrangements. Players should request the current fees, prize information and hotel package directly from the organizer before booking.

🗓️ Event Details

⏱️ Time Control & Pairings

The classical open consists of nine Swiss-system rounds at 90 minutes plus a 30-second increment from move one.

The festival also includes an 11-round blitz tournament using 3 minutes plus a 2-second increment.

Moreover, players should check the official pairing publication before every round and report any discrepancy immediately to the arbiter.

Therefore, participants should arrive early enough to find their board, prepare the scoresheet and place all electronic devices in the required condition.

♟️ Sections / Groups

The page combines the principal classical open and the associated blitz tournament held in Mondariz-Balneario.

📝 Registration

Entry and accommodation arrangements are coordinated through the organizer’s official channels.

In addition, players should keep a copy of their payment or registration confirmation and verify that their name appears on the official participant list.

👤 Organizer

📍 Venue

Hotel CEMAR – Carretera General Ponteareas–Mondariz, km 7, 36890 Mondariz-Balneario, Spain

Hotel CEMAR hosts the classical and blitz competitions. As a result, players who stay at the property can reach every round without arranging daily transport.

The hotel also offers a restaurant, café, seasonal outdoor pool, meeting space, Wi-Fi, parking and garden areas.

🏨 Accommodation

The playing venue also operates as the principal accommodation option. Therefore, players can ask the organizer or hotel about room availability, meal plans and any tournament package.

The property offers guest rooms and on-site services; however, prices depend on the chosen dates and room conditions.

🚆 How to Get There

Mondariz-Balneario sits in Pontevedra Province, east of Vigo. Consequently, players normally complete the final stage by car, taxi or regional road transport.

Because the hotel stands outside a major rail hub, international visitors should arrange the last transfer before arrival.

ℹ️ Other Information

The festival keeps the classical and blitz competitions separate for pairings and standings, although both use the same hotel venue.

In addition, players should verify the latest entry and payment conditions with the organizer because the event-specific announcement controls participation.

Key Tournament Rules

Practical Information

Official Resources

Plan your participation carefully: confirm the latest registration status, room availability and organizer instructions before booking non-refundable travel.