Saumur Loire Marathon

Running along the water: between nature and heritage

Running the Loire Marathon, is much more than a simple athletic challenge. It’s about crossing Anjou, following the meanders of Europe’s last wild river, and soaking up a region listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.UNESCO. Here, performance goes hand in hand with experience—between rolling vineyards, Renaissance châteaux, and troglodyte villages.

In Saumur, runners can choose between 42.195 km of pure enjoyment, a lively half marathon or a one-of-a-kind event: the canoe-run combo, where you paddle on the Loire before heading back to dry land to finish the race. A total immersion in the Loire Valley, where every kilometer reveals a postcard-perfect panorama.

But beyond the course itself, an entire region rallies. On Saumur’s quays, along the trails bordering the Loire, and all the way into the cobbled streets of the historic center, spectators, musicians, and volunteers create a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you’ve come to push your limits or simply savor the moment, the Loire Marathon offers an unforgettable experience where sport, nature, and history intertwine—turning every stride into a true exploration.