Trails in the Pays de la Loire

Trail running calendar in the Pays de la Loire
Emoji running-shoe
141
Races
Photo credits:

Philippe Devanne

Come run between castles and the ocean!

Ready to heat up your sneakers in Western France? 👟 Welcome to a territory where sea air blends with history—the legendary Pays de la Loire region 🌊. Here, effort is no joke, and your trail calendar is likely to fill up faster than a workday. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned athlete, every race in the Pays de la Loire has its share of surprises and sweat in store 😁.

Sand, vineyards and greenery! We see you coming—you think the terrain is totally flat around here, but think again! ⛰ With its five magnificent departments, this region of around thirty-two thousand square kilometers offers you an incredibly varied playground đŸ—ș. You’ll be able to take on a trail in the Pays de la Loire that will lead you along rugged paths as well as splendid seaside beaches đŸ–ïž. The mild oceanic climate lets you gallop year-round without ending up completely frozen ❄. From the majestic Mervent-Vouvant National Forest to the famous vineyards, every nature run is a true living postcard đŸŒČ. And if you’re looking for elevation gain, the CoĂ«vrons hills in Mayenne will very quickly tame your enthusiasm đŸ„”.

Making your thighs smoke is great, but getting cultured while sweating is even better 🧠. Did you know the regional prefecture is Nantes, a metropolis known worldwide for its gigantic Machines of the Isle, very close to the beautiful city of Angers? 🐘 During your brisk outings in the former province of Anjou, you’ll cross typical villages where old local dialects such as Gallo or Angevin still echo đŸ—Łïž. When it comes to architectural heritage, get ready to have your eyes widened as you brush past the sumptuous Loire Valley castles 👑.

A terroir that gives you your energy back. It’s also an unmissable land of cinema, with the famous beach of Saint-Marc-sur-Mer where the cult film Monsieur Hulot’s Holiday was shot 🎬. After a big session, the area’s incredible gastronomy is waiting for you to recharge your batteries 🔋. You can devour a hearty slice of Le Mans rillettes or calmly savor a comforting slice of VendĂ©e brioche đŸ„. But the surprises don’t stop there, because the famous symbol of the VendĂ©e heart will always guide you to the finish line 💖.

Running here is a true religion carried by exceptional athletes like the great Erik Clavery đŸ„‡. This former trail world champion lives in the area and very often takes part in events to encourage enthusiasts of your caliber 👏. In fact, many spectacular competitions are patiently waiting for you on our Finishers platform 🎉. You can take on the natural elements at the magnificent Trail de la CĂŽte de LumiĂšre in VendĂ©e 🌅. If you like particularly warm atmospheres, the Festi-Trail in Saint-Malo-du-Bois remains an unmissable landmark đŸ„ł. For lovers of fine vintages, the Trail du Vignoble Nantais will take you winding straight between the Muscadet vines 🍇. Don’t miss the formidable Trail de la Pierre that Tourne in Maine-et-Loire either, nor the great sporting epic of the Trail de Nantes in Montaigu ⚔. This territory is brimming with grand trails that will almost make you forget the lactic acid in your muscles đŸ”„.

So, what are you waiting for to join the big family of regional runners? đŸ€” All that’s left is to choose a distance suited to your level and book a bib right now đŸŽ«. Quickly put on your best sports outfit, take a deep breath, and get ready to live an unforgettable adventure on these trails 🚀. We’ll meet very soon on the starting line to write your own legend 🏅.

Should it rain or snow

Trail running schedule in the Pays de la Loire

Find at a glance the complete calendar of trails in the Pays de la Loire
June 202625 races
September 202620 races
October 202624 races