Overview
The Marathon des Villages draws approximately 1,200 finishers each October on a coastal village road in Cap-Ferret, France. The village-to-village coastal feel is unlike larger French city marathons. The route passes oyster villages, pine forests, and low-lying roads around the Bassin d'Arcachon. The course is very flat throughout.
Marathon des Villages is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Marathon des Villages 2026 race day
The next Marathon des Villages is scheduled for Sunday, 4 October 2026 with a 9:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 50 m of climbing on a very flat layout.
Marathon des Villages course route
Starts and finishes in the Arcachon Bay area. The route passes oyster villages, pine forests, and low-lying roads around the Bassin d'Arcachon. Oyster-village miles across the Bassin stay pancake-flat, with seaside spectators cheering through the pine-lined village loop.
Marathon des Villages elevation profile
The Marathon des Villages course is very flat over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 50 metres of climbing and 50 metres of descent, with minimal net elevation change from start to finish.
Entry requirements
The Marathon des Villages uses open online registration at marathon-des-villages.com with no ballot or qualifying time for the general field. Sign-up for the October race typically opens the previous year and places are allocated first-come, first-served. Charity bibs are available through partner organisations when general entry closes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Marathon des Villages elevation profile?
- The Marathon des Villages has 50 metres of total climbing and 50 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is very flat, with 0 metres of net change from start to finish.
- How long is the Marathon des Villages?
- The Marathon des Villages is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Coastal village road starting and finishing in the Arcachon Bay area.
- What time does the Marathon des Villages start?
- The 2026 Marathon des Villages starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 4 October 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on marathon-des-villages.com/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Where does the Marathon des Villages start and finish?
- Starts and finishes in the Arcachon Bay area. Updated course maps are published at https://marathon-des-villages.com/ each year.
- When is the Marathon des Villages and how do I register?
- Marathon des Villages is typically held in October. Registration opens through https://marathon-des-villages.com/ and may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.
- Is the Marathon des Villages course flat?
- Yes. Marathon des Villages is known for a largely flat profile with only minor undulations, making it popular with runners chasing steady pacing.
- What landmarks does the Marathon des Villages pass?
- The route passes oyster villages, pine forests, and low-lying roads around the Bassin d'Arcachon.
- What weather should runners expect at Marathon des Villages?
- Usually mild with marine breeze and humid Atlantic air.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
