Races in Metz

It wasn’t Émile Fabre who wrote the history of Metz, nor Paul Verlaine who turned it into prose, and yet it’s packed with details and could be told for as loooooong as an ultra-trail lasts! After being one of the country’s largest Gallo-Roman cities (yep, you learn something new every day 🤓), it became an oligarchy (the famous “Republic of Metz”), a period during which many buildings were erected. As time went by, the city became a highly developed military zone (it was during this phase that it earned its nickname “Little Paris of the East”) as well as a great citadel. Of course, we can’t forget to mention its multiple annexations by Germany, twice between 1871 and 1918, as well as during the Second World War. Today, you can rediscover all these legacies and all of Metz’s heritage during a run in this metropolis where life is good.  

An artistic city! That’s how one could describe the “Fortress of the East” given 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 Cour d’Or Museum. Who knows, maybe Romeo and Juliet will drop by the splendid Opéra-Théâtre 🤷‍♀️. For a little drink or a shopping break to renew your gear, head to Place Saint-Louis. For a morning outing, plan to pass through Avenue Foch and the Porte des Allemands, where remnants of the medieval ramparts can be found, before stopping at Saint-Étienne Cathedral. Two strides from there is the Covered Market (it was a former palace, for your info), but don’t forget to ask for a “cornet” to put your purchases in. Planning a triathlon? Train and swim across the Moselle to reach the sublime Temple Neuf, which offers you a magnificent view over all of Metz 😱. Don’t hesitate to do it at night, because illuminated on the peninsula, it’ll be a feast for your eyes 👀. After visiting the Esplanade and its garden, lengthen your stride to the Arsenal of Thierry Henry, where the Templars’ Chapel and the Church of Saint-Pierre-Aux-Nonnains will stand before you. Don’t forget to stop by the Botanical Garden (not necessarily recommended for running—you’ll quickly end up going in circles) and take advantage of being in the area to pop into the Metz train station, which has been voted several times the most beautiful station in France (there’s no other like it!). A little trip to the marina will also give you a boost after a tiring jog, and don’t miss the chance to sunbathe at Metz Plage, right next door! 

By the way, speaking of jogging, you’re probably wondering what the best training spots in Metz are. The lake and the Parc de la Seille are very popular with runners. If you want to mix things up with something more of a change of scenery, you can go train at Fort Queuleuleu or over by the fortifications, urban trail-style, to climb up to the Bellecroix hill. To work on your intervals, the Canal de Jouy will be your faithful ally! If all that has tired you out, go rest by one of the city’s lakes, whether it’s Lac Symphonie, Ariane Grandé or Lac des Cygnes (maybe this is where Tchaikovsky found his inspiration—who knows? 🤣). With a bit of luck, you might even run into Bouabdellah Tahri, a native of the city.

It’s all well and good to talk about running spots, but what races can you take part in here? Better to think big, since plenty of races are offered. Between the Euro Marathon of Metz (don’t hesitate to taste a few as fuel!), and the 100km of Metz Métropole. You can also leave the city and set off on a nice 10 km in Marly Gomont for “La Marlienne” Gomont! If you’re more into trail, don’t worry—the Trail du Saint-Quentin is also held every year. 

As you can see, the city is rich in races—but that’s not all: it’s also rich in events! Many festivals are organized, such as the Passages Festival, Constellations, or “Metz est Wunderbar”. The Metz International Fair, its Grand Flea Market, and its Dancing Fountains also attract quite a crowd every year. Who knows—you’re so strong at running that you want to broaden your athlete horizons? Come take part in the Moselle Open; sure, it’s not the US Open, but after all, maybe Roger Federer is hiding deep inside you!

Running really digs, and yet you’re not there—here it’s definitely the Moselle. No stress—the Grand Est still has plenty to comfort you with its wonderful specialties. Lorraine-style, whether it’s pâté, spindle-shaped quiche, or potée, you’ll be well fed! In high heat, what could be better than plombières ice cream? (Sadly, they won’t solve your plumbing problems.) This time, it’s not a Paris-Brest, but a Paris-Metz (created in 2007 🍰) that you’ll choose for dessert! A wine lover? Hit the Moselle wine route—promise, you’ll be delighted! 

Metz yourself into running—we promise Metz will delight you!