Trails in the Pays de la Loire

Trail running calendar in the Pays de la Loire
Emoji running-shoe
186
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 🗺️. 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 🏖️. 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 🌲. And if you’re looking for elevation gain, the Coëvrons hills in Mayenne will very quickly tame your enthusiasm 🥵.

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 🗣️. 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 Vendée brioche 🥐. But the surprises don’t stop there, because the famous symbol of the Vendée heart will always guide you to the finish line 💖.

Running here is a true religion carried by exceptional athletes like the great Erik Clavery 🥇. 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 Côte de Lumière in Vendée 🌅. If you like particularly warm atmospheres, the Festi-Trail in Saint-Malo-du-Bois remains an unmissable landmark 🥳. 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 🔥.

So, what are you waiting for to join the big family of regional runners? 🤔 All that’s left is to choose a distance suited to your level and book a bib right now 🎫. 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
September 202626 races
October 202628 races
May 202719 races
June 202730 races