FROM AIX-EN-PROVENCE TO MARSEILLE
VERY MINERAL LANDSCAPES
You will be tempted to raise your eyes to appreciate the scenery of the course under the special light of the full moon; and for the fastest, the sunrise over Marseille and the Mediterranean. And we advise you to open your eyes wide. But beware! Underneath its fast appearance, the course hides surprises and pitfalls.
Our hills are mineral, arid, and often vegetation has to struggle to find its place and progress. This will also be the case for you! The hidden paths at the end of the urban route, all along the GR2013 and the green corridor, will provide you with some nice surprises and views.
BECAUSE...
When you move away from Aix-en-Provence to climb up to Montaiguet and this view of the Sainte-Victoire mountain range lit up by the full moon.
When you get close to our King's Pillar, slowly, long.
When you smell the thyme, the rosemary, and rub against our bushes. It's a bitter pill to swallow.
When all you hear is the sound ofexertion and the chirping of birds in the middle of our sleeping hills.
When you find comfort and warmth at the refreshment posts with soup, tea, a smile and singing encouragement.
When you see the sun rise on the horizon, whether you are near or far from the end.
When, from the top of the Stars, you will discover for the first time the sea, and Marseille which sparkles below.
When you will be surprised to cross hectometres of single-tracks and poppies, to cross horses, like so many oases in our so unknown northern districts of Marseille. And yeah, this is Marseille baby!
When you complain about us, about these last climbs in the crossings, about these steep stairs that were not necessary because thefinish is right at the bottom.
When you walk along the harbour quays and discover the Good Mother overlooking the city. And you will say to yourself that, indeed, this local tradition of going up there before every important event...
When you push down the last few steps towards the Terrasses du Port promenade, hearing in the distance our announcer with the southern accent who was already there at the start at midnight. How many hours ago?
And when you finally pass under thefinishing arch, in front of the sea, and replay all those memories:
Each time you'll know why you
decided to be here. Here and now.
And we look forward to welcoming you to the 3rd edition!
On the course
HIGHLIGHTS
Montaiguet +346 m
In the Arc hills, the Montaiguet massif offers a view of Aix-en-Provence, the Sainte-Victoire, on the Croix side, and the hills of Gardanne and Mimet in succession.
Pilon du Roi +710 m
Passage under the most recognisable tooth of the hills at Mimet.
Massif de l'Etoile +779 m
Passage near the Petite Etoile, which offers a view of the highest massif of the Etoile range, and the discovery of Marseille and the Mediterranean, as well as the massif of the blue coast. Passage near the antennas, then descent under the Sanguins.
Grand Littoral Greenway
Passing by the letters MARSEILLE / HOLLYWOOD, and through the Foresta Park, still on the GR2013 route.
Bregante Park
Set against the hillside of La Viste, this park, with a surface area of 3 hectares, occupies a belvedere position on the bay of the northern coast of Marseille.
Footbridge A55
This final climb up the steps to cross a traffic junction between the railway tracks of the port station below, and the A55 motorway footbridge above you, will offer a guaranteed urban landing, 2km from the finish.
Terrasses du Port / Rooftop
Probably the most beautiful view of all Marseille: the blue coast, the Mediterranean with the Frioul Islands and the Château d'If, the CMA-CGM and La Marseillaise towers in the Euromed district, the Cathedral de la Major, the MUCEM, and at the top of the Garde hill: the Good Mother who watches over her city and its sailors. Our finish village on the Rooftop promises to be spectacular in more ways than one, and to become the most beautiful trail finish village on the planet. Foi de Marseillais !
Practical information
On our website, you'll find all the practical information you need to register and prepare for
your race and your stay:
But we've also thought of your companions:
if you decide to spend the weekend
together (or longer, don't hesitate!) in our beautiful region.
Regulations
DISCOVER IT!
Visitz all the information you need about the race and our organization, here.
If you can't find the answers to your questions, please contact us by e-mail and we'll get back to you as soon as possible 🙂
