The Marathon de Cheverny & Trail du Pays des Châteaux 2026 is one of the most prestigious heritage running events in France, scheduled for the weekend of April 25–26, 2026. Set against the majestic backdrop of the Loire Valley's Renaissance architecture, the event attracted nearly 7,000 participants in 2025. It is celebrated for its "gourmet" approach to racing, blending intense physical challenges with wine tastings, local terroir snacks at aid stations, and a festive atmosphere that begins with a large-scale Pasta Party on Saturday evening.
| Race Category | Distances | Key Landmark | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marathon de Cheverny | 42.195 km | Château de Cheverny | Solo or Relay |
| Trail du Pays des Châteaux | 14 km, 35 km, 63 km | Chambord to Cheverny | Nature & Forest Trail |
| Road Races | 10 km, Half-Marathon | Sologne Vineyards | Flat & Fast |
| Children's Races | Various | Château Park | Youth Discovery |
Race Logistics and Unique Experience
The 2026 edition offers seven distinct courses designed to suit every level of runner. The flagship marathon takes place in front of the Château de Cheverny—famously known as the inspiration for Captain Haddock's Marlinspike Hall in the Tintin comics. For those seeking a wilder experience, the 63 km Ultra Trail ralliess the monumental Château de Chambord to Cheverny, crossing through the deep forests of Sologne. The event is famous for its "Gourmet Aid Stations," where runners can sample local specialties and regional wines, emphasizing that this race is as much a culinary journey as it is an athletic one.
Regional and Heritage Context
The Loir-et-Cher department serves as the ultimate playground for this event, characterized by the dense woodlands of Sologne and the rolling vineyards of the Val de Loire. The race course provides exclusive access to the private estates of several Renaissance monuments, including Cheverny, Chambord, and Beauregard. This region is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its exceptional cultural landscape and the harmony between its historic architecture and the surrounding natural environment.
The local culture is deeply tied to the "Art de Vivre" of the French Renaissance, where history, gastronomy, and nature intersect. The Marathon de Cheverny captures this spirit perfectly, inviting runners to "bite into the terroir" while testing their endurance. The event is a major economic and social driver for the region, involving hundreds of local volunteers who ensure the safety and hospitality of the 7,000 athletes. By participating, runners contribute to the preservation of these historic paths and experience firsthand the timeless beauty of the French kings' favorite hunting grounds and retreats.
Apr 26, 2026
Distance — 21.1K
Type — Running
08:15
€45.00
Apr 26, 2026
Distance — 42.2K
Type — Running
09:15
€68.00
Apr 26, 2026
Distance — 42.2K
Type — Running
09:15
€160.00
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for April in Cheverny.
Learn more about the host city, Cheverny.
Cheverny is a commune in the French department of Loir-et-Cher, administrative region of Centre-Val de Loire.
Read more launchWatch highlights and course previews from previous years.
Explore other exciting events happening in this same region.
location_on Saint-Antoine-du-Rocher, Centre-Val de Loire, FR
calendar_today Apr 12, 2026
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