The Trail de Douvres 2026 is a historical and community-focused mountain running event held in the heart of the Bugey massif in the Ain department. Scheduled for Sunday, May 3, 2026, the race starts from the traditional village of Douvres. The event is known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse routes that cater to everyone from "aspiring" trail runners to seasoned endurance athletes. A key feature of the event is its integration into the Challenge du Sou des Écoles, a local circuit that encourages participation across six different regional races to support local school associations.
The 2026 edition offers three distinct trail distances and two non-competitive hikes. The courses are designed to showcase the emblematic sites of the territory, including the Luisandre and Allymes sectors. All events depart from the Douvres village hall.
| Race Name | Distance | Elevation (D+) | Start Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Grande Douvroise | 30 km | 1400 m | 08:00 AM |
| Du Luisandre aux Allymes | 21 km | 850 m | 09:00 AM |
| La Course Populaire | 13 km | 430 m | 10:00 AM |
| Hikes (13km & 21km) | Varies | Varies | 07:30 / 08:30 AM |
Douvres is a charming rural commune in the Ain department, located near Ambérieu-en-Bugey in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It has a population of approximately 1,100 residents. The village is situated at the foot of the first folds of the Jura mountains, marking the entry into the Bugey region. Demographically, the population is mainly French and European, characterized by families and professionals who value the proximity to nature while remaining within commuting distance of Lyon and Geneva. The median household income in the Ambérieu-en-Bugey area is roughly €22,100 per year.
The local culture is defined by Bugey traditions and a strong community spirit. The Bugey region is famous for its "Cerdon" wine and its rugged, limestone landscapes. The residents, "Douvrois," are deeply committed to their local associations, notably the Sou des Écoles, which organizes the trail to fund activities for village children. This creates a culture where sporting events are seen as essential social gatherings. The heritage of the area is physically represented on the trail by the Château des Allymes, a 14th-century fortress that participants pass, symbolizing a community that is fiercely protective of its history and its wild, "generous" natural environment.
Runners and hikers can expect a day centered on effort and conviviality. The 30 km "Grande Douvroise" is a relatively new addition to the event, offering a wilder and more technical experience for those seeking a challenge. For those preferring a faster pace or a first introduction to trail running, the 13 km "Course Populaire" provides varied terrain and frequent opportunities for speed. The start area at the Salle des Fêtes de Douvres serves as the logistical heart, providing a central location for departures and post-race celebrations. The event is particularly popular with families, as the tiered start times allow participants of different levels to finish around the same time.
May 03, 2026
Distance — 21K
Type — Running
07:30
€10.00
May 03, 2026
Distance — 30K
Type — Running
08:00
€29.00
May 03, 2026
Distance — 13K
Type — Running
08:30
€10.00
May 03, 2026
Distance — 21K
Type — Running
09:00
€19.00
May 03, 2026
Distance — 13K
Type — Running
10:00
€12.00
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for May in Douvres.
Learn more about the host city, Douvres.
Douvres is a commune in the eastern French department of Ain.
Read more launchWatch highlights and course previews from previous years.
Explore other exciting events happening in this same region.
location_on Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne, Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, FR
calendar_today Apr 26, 2026
location_on Lavancia-Épercy, Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, FR
calendar_today May 03, 2026
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