Uncover the etymological roots of the Loire Valley at the Kal Onna Trail, set to return for its 12th edition on Sunday, April 5, 2026. Organized by the Chalonnes Olympique Sports (COS) Athlétisme, the race derives its unique name from pre-Indo-European terms: "KAL," meaning stone or shelter, and "ONNA," meaning water. Together, they reflect the ancient meaning of Chalonnes-sur-Loire: "the house near the water." This event is a poetic invitation to explore the rugged beauty of the Anjou region, leading approximately 1,450 participants through a landscape where steep hillsides meet the flowing currents of the Loire River.
The 2026 edition serves as the prestigious opening stage of the Challenge Trails Anjou Logémaine, a series of eight races held throughout the department between April and October. Starting from the Gaston Bernier stadium, runners will navigate a diverse course spanning four communes: Chalonnes-sur-Loire, Saint-Laurent-de-la-Plaine, La Jumellière, and Chaudefonds-sur-Layon. While the organizers playfully warn that your calves may "sting" due to the technical climbs, the atmosphere remains festive and communal. Whether you are a marathon-distance expert or a newcomer to nature racing, the Kal Onna Trail offers a perfect blend of athletic challenge and scenic discovery in one of France’s most historic river landscapes.
| Race Category | Distance | Terrain Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Trail | 42 km | Technical ridges and extensive riverside paths. |
| Medium Trail | 20 km | Rolling hills and scenic viewpoints over the Loire. |
| Discovery Trail | 10 km | Accessible nature paths for beginners and families. |
| Total Expected Runners | 1,450 Participants | Open to all levels. |
| Demographic Metric | Regional Statistics (Chalonnes-sur-Loire, Maine-et-Loire) |
|---|---|
| Total Population (Chalonnes) | Approx. 6,500 Residents |
| Department Population | Approx. 815,000 (Maine-et-Loire) |
| Median Age | 41 Years |
| Key Local Industry | Viticulture (Coteaux-du-Layon) & Tourism |
Apr 05, 2026
Distance — 42K
Type — Running
06:30
€30.00
Apr 05, 2026
Distance — 20K
Type — Running
09:00
€20.00
Apr 05, 2026
Distance — 10K
Type — Running
09:30
€13.00
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for April in Chalonnes-sur-Loire.
Learn more about the host city, Chalonnes-sur-Loire.
Chalonnes-sur-Loire is a commune in the Maine-et-Loire department in western France. It is located on the left bank of the river Loire in the Loire Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site area.
Read more launchWatch highlights and course previews from previous years.
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