Marathons in Vaud

The marathon in Vaud is run along the lake, with the Alps as a backdrop 🌊. Lake Geneva remains the common thread of the Vaud race, and the vineyards of Lavaux add their vertical touch to the horizon. Few marathons offer such a varied setting, between an Olympic city, peaceful shores and vine-covered hills. For a first marathon, the familiar presence of the lake helps keep your spirits up over the distance.

The climate stays mild thanks to the lake. Autumn brings temperatures of 8°C to 14°C, without excessive heat, an ideal setting to aim for a fast time 🍂. The bise, that wind off the lake, can hinder runners on certain stretches: plan on a light layer. As for preparation, a few long runs along the quays are enough to test your pace, before adding elevation to get used to the climbs in Lausanne. In the weeks before the race, the Vaud weather remains changeable: testing your race outfit in the rain avoids unpleasant surprises.

The Vaud marathon calendar revolves around one major event: the Lausanne Marathon, at the end of October, which also offers shorter formats, including a 10 km and a half marathon 🎽. Its slogan, “Tous à l'eau(sanne) !”, plays on the French word for water, a nod to nearby Lake Geneva. For those looking for other ideas, the half marathons in Vaud offer a shorter alternative, and neighboring Valais has its marathons in Valais, which are more alpine. Registrations generally open several months in advance, which leaves time to build a twelve-week training plan. To stay in shape between two marathons, the running races in Vaud offer great events.

Lausanne, the Olympic capital, is home to the International Olympic Committee, and the Olympic Museum overlooks the lake from Ouchy, an inspiration for finishers 🥇. After the finish, a Vaudois papet or a cabbage sausage delights every runner 🥘. Whether it's your first marathon or just another long run, pick your event, Vaud knows how to host.