Trail Des Vilains

The Trail des Vilains is a scenic trail running and walking event held in Margut, Ardennes. Scheduled for Sunday, May 10, 2026, the race centers around the historic and elevated site of Saint Walfroy. The event offers participants a chance to experience the challenging terrain of the French Ardennes, featuring significant elevation gain for its distance, along with a family-friendly atmosphere at the summit.

The event includes two timed trail races and a non-competitive walk. Each distance is tailored to specific age categories, and staggered start times ensure a smooth experience for all participants.

The race takes place on the hill of Saint Walfroy in Margut (08). The courses are characterized by their "Viliain" nature—meaning tough and punchy climbs—with the 20 km loop featuring 500 meters of total vertical gain. In early May, the Ardennes region typically experiences fresh spring weather with average highs of 18°C, though the hill of Saint Walfroy can be exposed to wind. The trails provide a mix of forest paths and open ridge lines. For safety reasons, participants are strictly prohibited from being accompanied by dogs or bicycles on any part of the course.

Bib pickup begins at 8:00 AM on the morning of the race directly at the Saint Walfroy site. Runners must wear their bibs on the front and ensure they are visible at all times. The venue provides a refreshment bar and light catering (small snacks) for participants and spectators. To encourage sustainability, the organization promotes carpooling via platforms like Blablacar. For groups, clubs, or companies, a dedicated registration portal is available to allow for progressive entry entry and a single global payment.

Registration for the 10 km and 20 km trail races must be completed in advance; no on-site registrations will be accepted for the competitive runs. However, walkers for the non-timed 10 km event have the option to register on the day of the race. While the trail races require the submission of a medical certificate or PPS (Pre-participation Health Screening) for French regulation compliance, the 10 km walk does not require medical documentation. Entry fees are set at 19 € for the 20 km and 9 € for the 10 km trail, with the walk priced at 3 €.