MENESTRAIL

On December 5, 2026, the picturesque town of Moncontour de Bretagne will host the 27th edition of Menestrail, one of the last major trail running events of the year. Nestled in a historic setting with medieval architecture and charming streets, this event offers runners an array of challenging courses through scenic landscapes.
The highlight is undoubtedly the Ultra Menestrail, stretching approximately 100 kilometers across rugged terrain that starts at midnight on December 4th into early morning hours of December 5th. This grueling course caters to those aged Espoir and above (born in or before 2006), offering a true test of endurance under the starlit sky.
For runners seeking something slightly shorter, there's the Grand Menestrail at 56 kilometers, which departs early on December 5th. This race includes both a women’s peloton starting at 5:40 AM and a men’s peloton departing at 6:20 AM. Like the Ultra course, it is open to Espoir-aged participants.
The Menestrail offers a more manageable distance of around 24 kilometers for those who prefer an afternoon start. Departing early in the morning on December 5th, this race also welcomes runners aged Junior and above (born in or before 2008).
For younger athletes looking to get involved, there are several youth circuits designed specifically for them: a circuit for ages 10-12 with a distance of 1 kilometer; one for ages 8-9 also covering 1 kilometer; and another for ages 13-15 spanning 4 kilometers. These races will take place in the afternoon on December 5th, starting at 2:15 PM.
The Tour du Courtil is an additional option with a relatively short distance of 8 kilometers, suitable for Cadet-aged runners (born in or before 2011). The exact start time remains to be confirmed but will occur earlier in the day on December 5th.
Another notable course is La Cambrousse at approximately 34 kilometers. This race starts mid-afternoon around 5:00 PM and follows a challenging route through varied terrain, open only to Espoir-aged participants.
The Crapahute offers an even shorter distance of about 14 kilometers for runners aged Cadet and above (born in or before 2011), kicking off at 5:30 PM on December 5th. This course provides a less daunting yet still formidable challenge compared to the longer races.
For those looking to test their limits further, there's also the Defi option combining both Crapahute and Menestrail courses for a total distance of approximately 38 kilometers. Participants must be Espoir-aged or older (born in or before 2006).
Registration is mandatory through Klikego with no on-site sign-ups available for children’s races, ensuring all runners are properly prepared for the challenging terrain ahead.
To participate, athletes must complete and submit a Parcours Prévention Santé form online to receive validation by December 5th. Licenses from recognized athletic organizations will also be accepted.
Runners can opt for their race numbers to be mailed at an additional cost of €4 if they register before November 8th, helping alleviate parking difficulties near the event site on race day.
The post-race experience includes a bourse aux dossards where runners may sell or purchase used bibs while supporting local charities. The event organizers will provide further details about this process closer to the date via their website and social media channels.
With various courses catering to all levels of endurance, Menestrail promises an unforgettable trail running adventure through Moncontour’s scenic countryside on December 5th, 2026.