Marathon du Mont Saint-Michel returns in 2027 after eight-year absence

It was once one of the most iconic fixtures on the French running calendar. Absent since its last edition in 2019, Marathon du Mont Saint-Michel will rise again on March 20 and 21, 2027. But there is no question of simply bringing back the old format. The Établissement public du Mont Saint-Michel and Playground have created a new two-day event built around the bay and its two regions. The programme will feature a marathon, half marathon, 10K and two new trail races. Free children’s races will also round out the weekend.

The race’s historic identity remains firmly in place. Mont Saint-Michel is still at the heart of the event, but the project now aims to turn the entire bay into a playground. Starts will be spread across Brittany and Normandy, with a focus on balancing inland and coastal settings. It is a way to expand the experience beyond the marathon itself and bring together several types of runners. The addition of trail racing marks a major evolution in particular, allowing two different worlds to come together over the same weekend.

Bringing Marathon du Mont Saint-Michel and its bay, one of the most beautiful races in the world, back to life is a responsibility before it is a source of pride. We are rebuilding it around five races spread across Brittany and Normandy, rooted in the local communities. This new event further establishes Playground as a leader in its sector, with our values and our responsible-event DNA at its core. In a site of such importance, setting an example is not an optional extra; it is the condition for being able to run here.

The marathon will be capped at 1,000 runners

The new model also relies on deliberately controlled participation. The marathon and trail races will each be limited to 1,000 participants in the Mont Saint-Michel area. The cap is designed to protect a UNESCO World Heritage site and reduce pressure on the natural environment.

The organisers have also announced a zero-plastic target at aid stations, eliminating disposable bottles and cups. One euro from each entry will be donated to a fund dedicated to protecting the coastline and local biodiversity. The project will also include a carbon-footprint assessment, a car-sharing platform and a strong role for local stakeholders.

Race entries will be allocated by lottery

For the marathon and trail races, organisers are dropping the traditional first-come, first-served system, with its tiered pricing, in favour of a lottery open for several weeks. Entries will open on October 13, 2026, with the draw running until November 3. The 10K and half marathon will remain available through standard registration, subject to availability.

The system will also include a bonus scheme. Taking part in the 10K or half marathon in 2027 will allow runners to earn points and improve their chances in the 2028 lottery. It is a way to create a logical progression between the different distances while keeping participation limited in the events most exposed to pressure.