Carcassonne Walls Trail

The Trail des Remparts is a specialized historic trail running event taking place on Friday, May 1, 2026, within the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Cité de Carcassonne, France. Organized by the Centre des Monuments Nationaux in partnership with My Sport Agency, the event allows participants to run along 13th-century fortifications and through the medieval streets of the lower town. A portion of every registration fee is directly allocated to the preservation and restoration of this iconic French heritage site.

Geographically, the race is defined by the unique topography of the Carcassonne fortress, situated on a hill overlooking the Aude River. Runners will navigate technical stone steps, narrow cobblestone alleys, and the defensive moats (Course des Douves) that surround the double circuit of ramparts. In early May, the climate in the Occitanie region is typically mild, with daytime temperatures averaging 19°C (66°F), though the stone walls of the Cité can retain heat or create wind tunnels depending on the weather. The 4-hour challenge offers a rare opportunity to experience the fortress illuminated at night, adding a sensory layer to the technical demands of the loop.

Logistically, the event hub is located at the Porte Narbonnaise entrance, featuring a race village with artisan stands, local food producers, and musical entertainment for the expected 1,125 runners and 500 spectators. Participants can choose between individual entries or team formats (relays of two or four) for the endurance challenges. Registration is available online, and the organizers provide detailed digital maps (via CalTopo or similar) to help runners study the specific lap flow of the Cité. The event is designed as a family-friendly cultural experience, encouraging runners to explore the historic architecture while testing their endurance on ancient terrain.