How do you make a marathon fun? Add wine. Lyon-based writer, wine aficionado, and runner (in that order) Anna Richards argues that the best wine marathon in France takes place in Beaujolais.
Wine-Infused Marathons: A Global Trend
The world’s first wine marathon, the Marathon du Médoc (near Bordeaux), started in 1985, and since then, wine-infused running events have popped up globally. Runners participating in Médoc are treated to oysters and ice cream, reflecting France’s haute cuisine. However, securing places at these popular events has become notably competitive, akin to procuring tickets for major festivals.
Competing with Médoc is the Marathon du Beaujolais, held in eastern France. The Beaujolais Half Marathon in November truly challenges the Médoc’s reputation.
A Celebration of Wine and Culture
The Marathon du Médoc features a vibrant atmosphere with costumed participants, live music, and 23 different wine tastings, as renowned chateaux open their grounds. Participants enjoy local delicacies, making it a spectacular event. However, participation is limited to 8000 runners, and accommodation during the event is highly competitive due to high demand and warm temperatures.
The Beaujolais marathon route is a picturesque journey through vineyards, starting in the beautiful village of Fleurie and ending in Villefranche-sur-Saône. While Médoc charges €96 for a basic race pack, the Beaujolais marathon is more affordable at €65, making it great value considering the food and wine offered throughout the event.
The Joy of Beaujolais
Beaujolais has a reputation for being accessible and fun-loving, with many prestigious vineyards producing award-winning wines. The tradition of Beaujolais Nouveau started in the 1970s, and now it garners global celebrations each November, with the most spirited festivities occurring in Beaujolais itself.
The marathon route features refreshments, including 15 wine tastings that span 12 villages. For those who may find the full 26.2 miles daunting, shorter alternatives like the eight-mile route or the 13.1 mile half marathon are available.
Adding to the charm of the Beaujolais marathon is the tradition of fancy dress. Participants often don whimsical costumes, enhancing the event’s joyous atmosphere. As you traverse the route, expect a variety of refreshments, including full bottles of wine being handed out instead of mere refills. Moreover, the event features live music and opportunities to mingle with fellow wine enthusiasts and runners, providing a festival vibe that is unmatched.
Taking place in November, the Beaujolais wine marathon allows participants to bask in cooler temperatures, showcasing the breathtaking crimson and burnt-orange hues of the vineyards. The golden stone settlements dotting the landscape become spectacular under the sunlight.
All routes conclude in Villefranche-sur-Saône, a captivating town with a mix of paved paths and muddy vineyard trails. Although there’s a seven-hour limit for the marathon, the celebratory spirit of the region allows participants to enjoy themselves without strict enforcement of the time. In 2022, the atmosphere was electrifying, with over 20,000 runners participating, creating an unforgettable party ambiance.
Culinary Delights in Beaujolais
As anticipated in France, local cuisine plays a significant role in the marathon experience. Attendees can savor freshly grilled steak, Comté cheese, and delightful chocolate treats, further enhancing the joyous atmosphere surrounding the event.
Plan Your Visit to Beaujolais
Accommodation in Villefranche-sur-Saône is limited; however, nearby Lyon (just 30 minutes by train) offers abundant lodging options along with numerous Beaujolais Nouveau parties to extend the celebration post-race. High-speed trains from Paris to Lyon make the journey efficient, and travelers can also fly into Lyon–Saint-Exupéry airport.
