8h Cycling Charade 2026

My second lasts 8 hours, and my whole challenges over 2,000 runners on a car racing track… 🤔

And yes, it's the 8h Cycling Charade, taking place on the circuit of the same name, in Saint-Genès-Champanelle, in the Puy-de-Dôme 🏎️. In its golden age, this legendary and dynamic circuit hosted some of the greatest drivers of all-time during events such as the Trophée d’Auvergne or the French Grand Prix 🇫🇷. The original loop of 8 km gradually shortened to an approximately 4 km course with 18 turns and considerable elevation gain ⛰️. For asphalt lovers and mountains, it's the perfect compromise 😎.

The race starts in October, before the first frosts and the cold spells of winter ❄️. No worries about the heat during your effort: the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Park welcomes you with a temperate climate this season 🌅. Concerning your ride, forget F1 or motorized machines, it's by the strength of your legs that you'll complete this race 🚵. The classic format is an 8 hour race on 2 wheels, without strategic changes: just you, your bike, and your competitors. Of course, you can take a few seconds to refuel, but beware, the clock keeps ticking ⏳. If you want, you can count the number of laps you have already completed, it will keep you busy 😅. For the more reserved or those seeking a gentler approach to practice, different options are available: an 8h duo ✌️, trio, or quartet, anything is possible 🤝. And if you want to cut down on the distance without sharing the victory: the 4h solo and 2h solo are tailor-made formats 📏. However, be warned, 2h solo will not be the same pace as 8h solo. Get ready to push those legs 😝.

Once you've worked up a sweat and downed some Volvic or Rozana (your choice), enjoy the surrounding environment 🚰. You are in the largest regional natural park in France 🤩. Let me tell you, you won't be short for scenic views and hiking opportunities. As you stroll, you might encounter the path of the Cantal stratovolcano, aka the largest volcano in Europe 🌋, the renowned puy de Dôme that lends its name to the region, or the puy de Sancy, the highest point of the Massif Central 🏞️. In terms of history, the area is also a true sporting hub: ASM Clermont Auvergne 🏉, numerous stages of the Tour de France, Clermont Foot 63 ⚽️, the Sangliers Arvernes, or the Riomois archers have shined and continue to shine internationally 🏹. In short, you'll be walking (and pedaling 🚲) in the footsteps of the greatest French athletes 👣.

So at the end of autumn 🍁, don't settle on your couch. Head east to the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in Saint-Genès-Champanelle for one of the last races of the season 📆.