Trail running course through mixed terrain in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, FR

Nice Côte d'Azur by UTMB

23K / 50K / 109K / 165K·Nice, France·25 September 2026
4 distances

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About This Event

Part of the prestigious UTMB World Series, this Mediterranean trail running event showcases the diverse landscapes of the Nice Côte d'Azur metropolis as summer transitions to fall. The race takes runners from the mountains to the Mediterranean Sea, exploring the varied terrain of the French Riviera across four distinct distances. As the fifth edition of this growing event, Nice Côte d'Azur by UTMB aims to become the biggest trail running event in the Mediterranean basin. The race weekend features multiple distances that traverse the iconic coastal region, offering runners everything from technical mountain trails to scenic Mediterranean vistas. Each route provides a unique perspective on this renowned destination, combining the natural beauty of the French Alps' foothills with the glamour of the Côte d'Azur.

Choose Your Distance

Trail running course through mixed terrain in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, FR

23K

680m gain

Starting from the exclusive peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, this 23-kilometer route showcases the coastal beauty of the French Riviera. With 680 meters of elevation gain, it provides a scenic introduction to Mediterranean trail running and awards 1 Running Stone.

Trail running course near Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, FR

50K

604m gain

The route weaves between Nice's urban edges and the lower Maritime Alps, utilizing a network of coastal sentiers and inland trails that have connected these communities for generations. Runners transition repeatedly between Mediterranean vegetation zones and higher-elevation pine forest, with the terrain shifting from hard-packed coastal paths to rockier mountain single-track. The exact routing and elevation profile vary by edition, so consult the current year's race materials for specific course details and aid station locations.

Trail running course through mixed terrain in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, FR

109K

1,690m gain

Starting from Nice, the 109K route heads into the Maritime Alps, following a point-to-point or loop configuration that showcases the region's varied topography. The course connects villages and mountain refuges through trail networks that have served local shepherds and hikers for generations, now maintained as part of the extensive Grande Randonnée system. Technical sections require attention to footing on rocky descents, while the mixed terrain allows for rhythmic running on smoother passages between the more demanding segments.

Trail running course near Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, FR

165K

1,230m gain

The course traverses the Maritime Alps hinterland behind Nice, linking coastal trails with mountain passes inland. Runners experience the full geographic range of the Alpes-Maritimes département, moving through Mediterranean vegetation at lower elevations before entering alpine terrain. The route demands technical proficiency on varied surfaces, from coastal paths to mountain trails, with night running typically required for most finishers.