Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting out in the world of trail running, you'll be keen to take on demanding, legendary challenges. Here is a quick overview of France's finest trail events, offering outdoor enthusiasts varied and fantastic terrain. Explore the most stunning trails in France and use our curated selection to discover top routes, breathtaking views, and push your limits in an unforgettable athletic adventure.
Our pick of the best trails in France
The Grand Trail des Templiers
The Grand Trail des Templiers is one of the most authentic trails around, showcasing the raw beauty of the Grands Causses landscapes. The athletic challenge is demanding, featuring a 76 km route with over 3,000 metres of positive elevation gain. Unlike other trail runs in the major mountain ranges, this race offers an exceptional setting of plateaus and gorges amidst untamed nature. All details on this trail here.
The trail du bout du monde
Located at the tip of Finistère, the Trail du Bout du Monde takes you through superb coastal landscapes featuring cliffs, lighthouses, coastal paths, and beaches. This Breton trail offers 20, 37, and 57 km routes in a friendly atmosphere. It delivers something different, and its maritime scenery plays a huge part in its popularity and enthusiasm. Plus, the beauty of this part of Brittany is no myth: it's pure magic with every stride! All details on this trail here.
The Grand Raid des Pyrénées
The beauty of the Pyrenees provides the perfect stage for a renowned trail race. Highly demanding from an athletic perspective, it offers a wide range of routes and explores stunning locations such as the Néouvielle massif with its numerous high-altitude lakes and the Pic du Midi. Undeniably one of the finest trail races in France.
3 courses are generally available:
- The Tour des Lacs: 80 km and 5,000 m of D+
- The Tour des Cirques: 120 km and 7,000 m of D+
- The Ultra: 160 km and 10,000 m of D+
For Pyrenees enthusiasts, racing here at least once is a must to experience both its difficulty and its wild beauty. All details on this trail here.
The Trail du Ventoux
The Giant of Provence is packed with striking landscapes, set against scenery often intensified by blazing sunshine. The Trail du Ventoux takes place in this demanding environment. This famous, highly popular trail draws massive crowds, with registration lists filling up in no time.
This trail offers a choice of three routes: 46 kilometres (2,850 m of positive elevation gain), 26 kilometres (1,450 m of positive elevation gain), or 15 kilometres (450 metres of positive elevation gain). The ruggedness of Mont Ventoux, peaking at 1,912 metres, and its arid scenery make it undeniably one of the finest trail races in France. All details on this trail here.
The 6000D or the Race of the Giants of La Plagne
Here is a trail that starts in Aime-La Plagne and takes runners to the summit of the Bellecôte Glacier, passing through most of the high-altitude resorts in this massif. With a total distance of 65 kilometres and 3,000 metres of positive elevation gain, this trail is fully marked to guide runners, alongside 6 other varied and accessible routes. Over the years, the 6000D has grown increasingly popular among trail enthusiasts, and its growing international field is proof of this well-earned enthusiasm. All details on this trail here.
The Ultra Trail du Mont-White
Finally, the Ultra-Trail du Mont-White (UTMB) is undoubtedly the world's most famous trail race. It is also likely the toughest: 168 kilometres and 9,600 metres of positive elevation gain! Enough to test your legs to the limit! Set against a majestic, breathtaking backdrop, this trail crosses three countries: France, Switzerland, and Italy. Taking part at least once is the ultimate dream for trail running enthusiasts! Selection is rigorous and demanding, with organisers using a lottery to allocate slots among the overwhelming number of applicants. The lucky runners earn the privilege of tackling this grueling course while taking in unforgettable panoramas of the Mont White Massif. All details on this trail here.
So here are 6 exceptional trails in France! Each offers a true athletic challenge alongside distinct, majestic landscapes. France is home to countless more trail runs that deserve equal praise, but everyone has their own favourite selection of the best trails in France!
