Races in Metz

It wasn't Émile Fabre who wrote Metz's story, nor Paul Verlaine who turned it into prose, yet it is full of details and could be recounted as loooooong as an ultra-trail lasts! After being one of the largest Gallo-Roman cities in the country (and yes, we learn something new every day 🤓), it became an oligarchy (the famous "Messine Republic") during which many buildings were constructed. Over time, the city became a highly developed military zone (this is when it earned its nickname of "little Paris of the East") as well as a great citadel. Obviously, we must not forget to mention its multiple annexations to Germany, twice between 1871 and 1918, as well as during the Second World War. Today, you can rediscover all these legacies and all the Messinian heritage while jogging in this metropolis where life is good.  

An artistic city! That's how we could describe the "Fortress of the East" considering its heritage, but you'll notice it even more after visiting the Centre Pompidou (no, stay here, don’t go all the way to Paris!) or the Musée de la Cour d'Or. Who knows, maybe Romeo and Juliet will appear at the resplendent Opera-Theater 🤷‍♀️. For a drink or a shopping session to renew your gear, head to Place Saint-Louis. As part of a morning outing, plan to go through Avenue Foch and Porte des Allemands, where remnants of medieval ramparts stand, before stopping at Saint-Étienne Cathedral. Just a stone's throw away is the Covered Market (it used to be a palace for your info) but don't forget to ask for a "cone" to hold your purchases. Planning a triathlon, train and swim across the Moselle to reach the sublime New Temple, offering a stunning view over all of Metz 😱. Feel free to do it at night, since illuminated, on the peninsula, it will dazzle you 👀. After visiting the Esplanade and its garden, stretch your strides to the Arsenal of Thierry Henry, where the Templar Chapel and the Saint-Pierre-Aux-Nonnains Church will stand before you. Don’t forget to visit the Botanical Garden (not necessarily recommended for running as you’ll soon be going round in circles) and take advantage of being in the area to take a look at Metz Station which has been voted several times as the most beautiful station in France (there’s none other like it!). A little tour of the marina will also recharge you after a tiring jog, and don’t miss the chance to sunbathe at Metz Plage, which is just next door! 

Furthermore, speaking of jogging, you're probably wondering what are the best training spots in Metz. The water area and Seille Park are heavily frequented by runners. If you want to vary your experiences for something more exotic, you can do your training at Fort Queuleuleu or on the side of the fortifications in an urban trail style, to climb up to Bellecroix hill. To work on your sprints, the Canal de Jouy will be your loyal ally! If all this exhausts you, go rest by one of the lakes in the city, whether it's Symphony Lake, Ariane Grandé, or Swan Lake (maybe it was here that Tchaikovsky found inspiration, who knows? 🤣). With a bit of luck, you might bump into Bouabdellah Tahri, a native of the city.

It’s all well and good to talk about running spots, but which races can you join here? Better think big, as many races are offered. Between Metz's Euro Marathon (don't hesitate to enjoy some of them as a refreshment!), the 100km of Metz Metropolis. You can also venture outside the city and take on a nice 10 km in Marly Gomont for "the Marlienne" Gomont! If you're more into trail, don't worry, the Saint-Quentin Trail is also held every year. 

As you can see, the city is rich in races but that's not all, it also hosts many events! Numerous festivals are organized, such as the Passages Festival, Constellations, or even “Metz est Wunderbar”. The International Fair of Metz, its Grand Flea Market, or its Dancing Fountains also attract quite a crowd each year. Who knows, you're so good at running that you wish to broaden your horizons as an athlete? Come participate in the Moselle Open, sure it's not the US Open, but after all, maybe Roger Federer is hiding inside you!

Running is a Creuse but you're not there, here it’s definitely the Moselle. No worries, the Grand-Est still has something to comfort you with its delightful specialties. On the Lorraine side, whether it's pâté, quiche, fuseau or potée, you'll be satisfied! In hot weather, what better than Plombières ice creams? (Unfortunately, they won’t solve your plumbing problems). This time, it's not a Paris-Brest, but a Paris-Metz (created in 2007 🍰) you choose for dessert! If you're a wine lover, embark on the Moselle wine route, we promise you'll be pleased! 

Running to Metz, we assure you that Metz will fulfill you!