The Médoc Castles Marathon

In the heart of one of the most prestigious wine-growing regions in the world, in the beating heart of the grape harvest in September, the Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc is the most legendary of all races for good-humoured athletes. Where does its international reputation come from ? From the thousands of runners in fancy dress who provide entertainment ? Of the incredible wine tastings and regional products at the refreshment stations ? Of its unique route amidst the great castles ? Of the conviviality of its volunteers ? Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of a marathon that is unique in the world, a subtle blend of all…

NEXT EDITION : 5 SEPTEMBER 2026

The theme of the next edition of the Médoc Châteaux Marathon will be ” 80s “. Attention, places are limited : get your number as soon as possible. Numbers are limited to 8,500.

Find out more about the programme for this 39th edition

A not-to-be-missed sporting event in Pauillac, renowned the world over

Don’t let its trivial atmosphere fool you : the Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc is undoubtedly one of the most sophisticated and prestigious events in the world, as popular as the New York and Paris Marathons! For 40 years, it has attracted thousands of athletes to enjoy an extraordinary experience in the heart of the Médoc vineyards. You won’t find it anywhere else…

The route changes every year. And in the faith of sportsmen and women, it is always a challenge. On the steep, winding vineyards, the challenge is huge for the marathon runners who come to the Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc to push themselves even further.

A unique, gourmet marathon experience in the Médoc vineyards

The race takes place over a course of 42.195 kilometres, right in the heart of the famous Médoc vineyards, with tastings to boot ! Pauillac at the start, then Saint-Estèphe, Saint-Julien-Beychevelle, all great names… For marathon runners, it’s a unique opportunity to practice their sport in an atypical setting, on the roads of the greatest Bordeaux wines. A grand château here, breathtaking views of the vineyards there and the sweet smell of grapes just waiting to be picked: can you imagine a more beautiful running surface ?

Exceptional terroirs mean 100% gourmet refreshment points. And in the Médoc, “off course” : the tastiest local specialities await runners at each relay point. It’s true that you’ll leave feeling a little heavier in your trainers and a little cramped in your suit. But your spirit will be boosted by the natural flavours of local produce !

Disguises and entertainment for all

Top time for the festive spirit of the Médoc !

The Châteaux du Médoc Marathon is renowned for its friendly and original route, but its unusual atmosphere makes it just as unique. Each year, the runners are given a different theme to dress up for, and they compete with each other to put on an incredible show ! Over the last 40 years, superheroes, comic strip and manga characters, legendary film stars, clowns, giant wine barrels and eccentric animals have all run through the vineyards. For visitors, the image is striking. For marathon runners, the experience is bound to be unforgettable.

There’s fun and good humour for all! The Marathon des Châteaux du Médoc has an epicurean spirit and offers visitors a host of exciting extras. Big dance evenings, tastings, gigantic tables : the Médoc way of life, to be shared to the dregs ! There’s even a recovery walk on Sunday for 4,000 brave souls, alongside the runners and volunteers, in the vineyards of course.