10 km Races in Valais

The 10 km is the queen of distances in Valais: fast enough to race against the clock, short enough to leave time for the terrace 🌞. The valley roads, lined with apricot trees, run between the Rhône and the hillsides. For a 10 km in Valais, the mountains serve as a backdrop, not an obstacle. The courses remain flat, fast and open, which appeals as much to beginners as to runners chasing a personal best.

Valais is one of the sunniest cantons in Switzerland, with early springs in the Rhône valley. From April, the roads dry out, the orchards blossom and the first bibs are handed out 🌸. In summer, start times shift to the evening to avoid the heat of the valley floor. Autumn offers ideal temperatures, between 10°C and 15°C, to set a personal record.

The 10 km race calendar remains rich for a mountain region. The Vétroz race opens the season in early April on fast asphalt 🏁. In May, the Marathon des terroirs du Valais BCVS, in Martigny, offers its 10 km at the heart of a big celebration. In Sion, the Running du Valais brings together 5 km and 10 km enthusiasts at the end of July. In Monthey, La Montheysanne gathers women in August in a spirit of solidarity. More ambitious runners are already eyeing the half marathons in Valais.

Sion, the capital of the canton, overlooks the plain from its castles of Valère and Tourbillon, a backdrop runners catch a glimpse of at every turn 🏰. Valais also lends itself to culinary pleasures, with raclette, apricots and rye bread. Pick your 10 km, pin on your bib and head to Valais. After the finish, a glass of fresh mountain water and a slice of apricot tart put everyone back on their feet.