About This Race
The Nice Côte d'Azur by UTMB 50K delivers a concentrated experience of what makes trail running on the French Riviera distinctive. Part of the larger UTMB World Series event in Nice, this distance navigates the transition zone between the Mediterranean coastline and the Maritime Alps, offering runners their first taste of ultra-distance racing without the multi-day recovery of longer formats. The 50-kilometer route captures the region's characteristic contrasts: technical single-track through maquis-covered hillsides, exposed ridge sections with views across the Baie des Anges, and passages through villages perchés that have clung to these slopes for centuries. The course typically involves significant elevation change, though runners should verify current gain figures as the route can vary between editions. Scheduled for late September, the race benefits from the shoulder season's more moderate temperatures while still offering long daylight hours. The UTMB organization brings its established aid station protocols and time cutoffs calibrated for runners new to the ultra distance, making this a well-supported entry point into Mediterranean mountain running.
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.
Elevation Profile
Elevation profile estimated from terrain data. Actual course may differ.
The course gains 604m over 50km, with the steepest section between km 62–km 62.
Location
Practical Info
Late September on the Côte d'Azur typically offers warm days (18-24°C) with lower humidity than summer months, though conditions can range from full sun to autumn rain systems moving through from the Mediterranean.
NCE - Nice Côte d'Azur Airport
Nice offers extensive lodging options across all price points, from backpacker hostels to seaside hotels. Book early as the race coincides with the end of tourist season but before off-season rates begin. The city's efficient tram system connects most hotels to race venues.