Trails in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Discover the treasures of the region: you will undoubtedly find your happiness, whether in the city, by the lakes, or through the varied landscapes of the Alps. This is where the greatest trail runners come to race, even to train. Among them, Mathieu Blanchard, winner of the Diagonale des Fous 2024 on the island of La Réunion, Théo Détienne, winner of the Mont-Blanc Marathon over 90 km, or Baptiste Chassagne, second at the HOKA UTMB Mont-Blanc 2024 🥵. Are you looking for a race to discover for its scenery, to cheer on the runners, or simply to challenge yourself for the next season? 🗓️ Don't worry, we've found 3 trails to do at least once in your life (or attempt to finish)!

Events not to be missed in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region! 🏔️

Volvic Volcanic Experience 🌋

This is THE trail that takes you through the volcanoes of Auvergne, just that. Between craters, forests, and climbs ⛰️, which will make you reconsider your life choices, the Volvic Volcanic Experience is a must. A bunch of different distances that will make you sweat 😰, but above all enjoy, with the region's breathtaking landscape. You will dive into the heart of the Chaîne des Puys in the center of the Massif Central, yes, you have the privilege of running in a UNESCO-listed site, that's a beautiful privilege ⭐️. For these races, don't be afraid of elevation change, between 450 mD+ and 8400 mD+, you have plenty to heat up your legs 🦵. This challenge is unique and not to be missed in the region.

Ultra Trail du Mont-Blanc ❄️

Here we are talking myth, the UTMB, it's kind of the Holy Grail of trail runners. It is certainly the most coveted race in the world 🌍, and Kilian Jornet would agree, thanks to its distances, its landscape in the middle of nature, and its prestige. 170 km of mountains, in the heart of the heights of Mont-Blanc, for an extraordinary challenge 🤯. Beyond this legendary distance, it's also a week of events and trails, each crazier than the last. 6 other distances are organized during the week, so you have enough to set yourself a great challenge. If you're not yet ready for these kilometers of mountains, don't worry, there are other "related" or qualifying events in the region 😁.

Trail in Côte-Rôtie ⛰️

Ah, this one is for gourmets! At the Trail in Côte-Rôtie, get ready for climbs among the vineyards and descents between the vines: get ready to make your heart race ❤️. It's an incredible race, emblematic of its region 🍇. The first start is in the early afternoon for the 46 km, but don't forget your flashlight because they have a nighttime arrival planned for you. Other participants start later on 25 km and 13 km formats, with nice little climbs on the program. In short, it's a great plan to test your cardio without having to climb to 2000 meters altitude! 🧭

The best tips to shine on the trails ✨

You MUST do elevation training, muscle strengthening, and especially get used to running uphill and downhill (because going down can sting too!). Also, don't forget to do calmer sessions on shorter distances at a slow pace, because your endurance will certainly be your best ally. Choose your shoes carefully if you want to avoid ending up on your behind in the mud, aim for a sole that grips 👟 in all conditions. Since we're all starting to creak a little 😬, stretching should not be overlooked, take 5 to 10 min after each session to relax well (your recovery will thank you)! From a logistics point of view, plan ahead: some starting points are in the middle of nowhere (hello to Cantal 😅). And above all, eat well, drink well, and breathe well. On ultra distances, managing food and water is key 🔑.

Why AURA is a trail runner's paradise ❤️

The Ardèche, the Savoie, the Rhône, the Puy-de-Dôme,... A slew of departments leaving you their mountains to challenge and surpass yourself. Because here, you can run on volcanoes one day and in the Alps the next. Your eyes 👀 will thank you for coming because the landscape will never disappoint you. This region is super active; you can enter a trail almost every weekend, with more than 480 races per year, and you will enjoy a community of passionate (a little crazy) people always ready to motivate you! Other races not to be missed: the Asics Saintélyon, the Trail du Ventoux, the Trail des Passerelle du Monteynard, LUT By Night, well, you've got choices. Even if there are probably more cows 🐄 than people, we promise you'll be able to make some beautiful encounters. Of course, thanks to Finishers, you can plan your season like a true mountain strategist. In short, whether you are here for performance or pleasure, you're going to enjoy yourself.