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

Nice Côte d'Azur by UTMB 165K

165K·1,230m gain·Nice, France
ultra100 milemountaintechnicaltrailcoastalqualifier

AI-generated image

Distance165K
Gain1,230m
Date25 Sep 2026

About This Race

Covering 165K of trail, Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.

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.

Elevation Profile

Elevation profile estimated from terrain data. Actual course may differ.

The course gains 1,230m over 165km, with the steepest section between km 267–km 267.

Location

Practical Info

Weather

September on the Côte d'Azur typically brings moderate temperatures with warm days and cooler nights, though conditions vary significantly with elevation—coastal sections can be humid while higher terrain brings mountain weather patterns and potential for wind exposure on ridges.

Nearest Airport

NCE - Nice Côte d'Azur Airport

Best For

experienced_ultrarunnersmountain_runnersscenic_seekers

Other Distances at This Event

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.

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.

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.