France
Sat, September 5, 2026
42.195 km
42 km of camaraderie, pushing your limits, and tastings galore! Since its creation in 1985, the Médoc Marathon has established itself as the must-do race for marathoners looking for a festive atmosphere. Every year, this event attracts nearly 8,500 participants, who swap their everyday clothes for running gear (or a costume) and take on the 42.195 km through the prestigious Médoc vineyards. Everyone comes together to enjoy a unique route through wine country and châteaux, where sport blends with gastronomy and the discovery of local terroir.
Held in early September, it’s the flagship back-to-school event in Southwest France! The race benefits from Indian-summer temperatures, with a mild, sunny climate, offering ideal running conditions. The course lets runners take in breathtaking scenery while sampling renowned wines and local specialties at every aid station. Because yes, this marathon delivers a surprising experience—one that goes against the pursuit of pure performance. This gathering is famous for its good vibes, friendliness, and participants’ unwavering motivation.
For more than 30 years, the marathon has brought together a close-knit community of runners, volunteers, and spectators, all driven by the pleasure of sharing an unforgettable moment. The race stands out for its gourmet aid stations, where water and fruit (for the well-behaved) sit alongside wine and cheese tastings, providing essential moral and culinary support to tackle the remaining kilometers. So come well prepared—both for the marathon and for raising a glass!
The Médoc Marathon is the perfect opportunity to get together with friends, colleagues, or family right after summer. Don’t forget the course really is 42.195 km, the king distance of road running, and it also includes a few elevation changes. Still, these challenges are quickly forgotten thanks to discovering the treasures of the Médoc and the lighthearted atmosphere that lasts throughout the event.
With its four decades of history, the Médoc Marathon remains a competition where sport, celebration, and local terroir come together to deliver an exceptional experience. A way to combine the benefits of sport with the pleasure of tasting products from the French countryside.
The Médoc Marathon lets you visit châteaux that are usually closed to the public!
Thirty-eight wine tastings are offered along the course—so practically every kilometer!
Every year, a new costume theme is chosen, so there’s no chance of experiencing the same Médoc Marathon twice!