Imagine a marathon where the challenge of 42.2 kilometres is sweetened with the flavours of Bordeaux’s finest wines.
This race is not just about endurance but also a gastronomic and culinary experience mixed with a route that highlights the area’s scenic beauty.
The Marathon du Medoc redefines the very concept of a marathon.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of France’s renowned winemaking region, this unique race invites participants to dress up, drink up, and celebrate in the camaraderie of fellow runners and wine enthusiasts.
Scheduled for 7th September 2024, the Marathon du Medoc stands out with its inclusive spirit.
8,500 participants will embark on a course that takes them through historic chateaux and lush vineyards, complemented by a range of gourmet drinks and snacks along the way.
This is so much more than a race.
It’s a festival on the move, celebrating the joy of running, the art of wine, and the beauty of Bordeaux.
Overview of the Marathon du Medoc
Quick Facts
2024 Date | 7th September 2024 |
Total Participants | 8,500 |
Registration Cut Of Date | 21 June 2024 or until sold out |
Required Qualifying Time | N/A |
Race Type | Marathon (42.2km) |
Marathon du Medoc Cost
Entries for the Marathon du Medoc are included and guaranteed when you book your trip through Travelling Fit. We offer comprehensive travel packages that cater to every need, ensuring you enjoy a hassle-free experience focused on the Marathon du Medoc and the pleasures of Bordeaux.
Our 4-day / 3-night and 5-day / 4-night packages Include a range of tour options and perks exclusive to Travelling Fit clients.
Packages start from $2,107 with a guaranteed entry to the race. Check out our Marathon du Medoc Marathon travel packages to learn more.
Marathon du Medoc Course Route
Your journey begins in the charming town of Pauillac, nestled along the scenic banks of the Gironde estuary.
As you set off from the starting line, the festive atmosphere is unmistakable, with runners dressed in creative costumes, embodying the marathon’s spirit of fun and cheerfulness.
Pauillac, renowned for its prestigious wineries, sets the stage for an unforgettable race.
As you leave Pauillac behind, the route takes you through a variety of vineyards, showcasing some of the region’s most renowned wine estates, including Château Lafite Rothschild and Château Latour.
This part of the marathon provides peaceful scenery and a chance to sample some of the best wines in the area, blending the physical challenge of the race with a touch of gastronomic pleasure.
Halfway through, the route leads you to several historic chateaux, which are emblematic of the area’s deep-rooted history.
As you run past landmarks like Château Pichon Longueville and Château Beychevelle, you’ll get a brief glimpse into their elegance and the rich tales they embody.
This segment of the marathon bridges history with the present, gradually drawing you into the essence of Médoc’s celebrated wine legacy.
This section is a runner’s paradise, offering serene views and the unique opportunity to taste world-class wines and food, turning the marathon into a unique blend of athletic challenge and culinary enjoyment, making it a distinctive experience for runners.
From gourmet food stands to wine-tasting booths, these stops are more than just rest points, they’re where the spirit of the marathon truly comes to life.
Here, amidst the laughter and music, you’ll feel the warmth of the Médoc community, cheering you on and sharing in the joy of the event.
The route eventually circles back to Pauillac where crowds of locals and spectators will be waiting to cheer you home.
Crossing the finishing line gives runners a bit of a different feeling of satisfaction compared to standard marathons. While you may not have broken your PB, you’ll be smiling ear to ear at the uniqueness of the event and the experiences you just gained.
Marathon du Medoc Map
Check out the map below to see the route for the marathon (subject to change )
Marathon du Medoc 2024 Theme
The theme for the 2024 Marathon du Medoc is “Faites vos Jeux”, meaning “Make Your Games!”.
Pull out your imaginative costumes and embrace the playful spirit of the games.
Participants are encouraged to express themselves creatively, adding an extra layer of excitement and camaraderie to the race.
Marathon du Medoc Medals, Records, and More
Beyond the finish line lies the pride of completing one of the world’s most unique marathons.
Medals will be awarded celebrating both the personal achievement and the collective joy of the event.
Records set here are as much about endurance as they are about participating in the marathon’s convivial spirit.
In true local fashion, every runner who crosses the finish line will also receive a French bottle of wine.
Marathon du Medoc Registration Process
If you’d like to register for the marathon, Travelling Fit can help you secure guaranteed race entry.
You can book race entry and a range of Marathon du Medoc travel packages and tour options including:
- 5 days / 4 nights at Hotel De Normandie (4-Star)
- 4 Days / 3 Nights at Hotel De Normandie (4-Star)
Optional day tours & excursions:
- St Emilion Half Day Tour – This tour will take us to the beautiful UNESCO-listed medieval French village of Saint Emilion and visit the unique Underground Monolithic Church, the Tour du Roi.
Do I need a medical certificate to participate in the Medoc Marathon?
A medical certificate is a mandatory requirement for participation in the Marathon du Medoc, as is common with many French races.
This certificate must verify your fitness to compete in a marathon and needs to be signed by your General Practitioner (GP).
Travelling Fit provides guidance on the specific requirements for the medical certificate and can assist in navigating the process to ensure your documentation meets the necessary requirements for race entry.
How to train for the Marathon du Medoc
The Marathon du Medoc is an event that celebrates more than just running; it’s a festival of wine, food, and the picturesque beauty of the Bordeaux region.
Preparing for this marathon means gearing up for a unique blend of physical endurance and sensory delights.
Training should focus not only on the stamina needed to comfortably complete the course but also on an openness to the festive atmosphere that defines the race.
Incorporate variety in your training to adapt to the marathon’s diverse demands, from long runs that simulate the distance to shorter, faster workouts that build speed and efficiency.
Given the wine-tasting opportunities along the route, consider practising runs that include stops, mimicking the race day experience.
Balancing your physical preparation with a mindset that embraces the celebration will enhance your overall experience.
Getting to Marathon du Medoc
Planning your trip to the Marathon du Medoc is an integral part of the experience.
The race takes place in the Bordeaux region of France, renowned for its vineyards and historic towns.
Travelling Fit offers comprehensive travel solutions that simplify the logistics of getting to the Marathon.
Whether you’re flying in from another continent or travelling locally, we provide detailed travel advice, including the best flight options, airport transfers, and local transportation to ensure a smooth journey to the starting line.
Planning Your Marathon Journey with Travelling Fit
This is your invitation to join a festival that combines the endurance of marathon running with the pleasure of French wine and cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned marathon runner or a wine enthusiast looking for a unique challenge, the Marathon du Medoc offers something for everyone.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this extraordinary event. Secure your spot through one of our Marathon du Medoc travel packages, choose your costume, and prepare for an adventure that will delight your senses and challenge your spirit.
