The Annecy marathon and the 10 km of the lake are major sporting events for running enthusiasts. Considered one of the most beautiful marathons in France, their route between the lake and mountains offers a sublime setting on the shores of Lake Annecy. Whether you wish to participate or cheer on the runners, here is all the necessary information regarding this event.
Annecy: in the top 10 of French marathons
The Annecy marathon, created in 1980, attracts an increasing number of participants each year. Renowned for its exceptional performances, it now ranks among the top 10 marathons in France. Since its inception, over 240,000 runners have crossed the starting line, making this event a must for running enthusiasts.
In addition to the marathon, runners can register for the half-marathon or participate in races dedicated to young people aged 7 to 15. Participants have the opportunity to beat their own records, and for those who prefer to run in pairs, a duo race option is also available, offering a moment of solidarity and shared motivation.
Participants come not only from all over France but also from abroad, which reflects the high level of competition. Annecy is a popular destination for trail and running enthusiasts with prestigious events like the Maxi-Race of Lake Annecy, which takes place every year in May.
The routes of the Annecy Marathon
The Annecy Marathon offers several routes suitable for all levels. The main route passes through the beautiful towns around the lake: Annecy, Sevrier, Saint-Jorioz, Duingt, and Doussard. Runners use both the road and the bike path along the lake, returning on the same route. With only 100 meters of elevation gain, the course is relatively flat, perfect for beginners.
Adults can choose between two distances: a 10 km route, ideal for those wishing to discover running, and a longer 42.2 km route, with an elevation gain of about 100 meters. A relay course is also offered in the form of a DUO, where each runner completes a half-marathon, or about 22 km.
For the younger participants, age-appropriate races are offered: a 1450-meter race, of which 300 meters are accompanied, and a shorter 850-meter race, also with 300 meters of accompaniment.
The organization of the Lake Annecy marathon
The organization is managed by Annecy Haute-Savoie Athlétisme, which also handles the International EAP Meeting. This sporting event improves from edition to edition, offering numerous services to marathoners and half-marathoners:
- A t-shirt for each participant
- The awarding of trophies
- The payment of bonuses, prizes, and gift vouchers
- Musical entertainment
- The presence of pace leaders during the races
- A photography service for runners
- A shuttle service
- The guarantee of the FFA international athletics label
- Finisher medals
- The provision of refreshments
- An eco-event for waste management
- A shower service
- A buffet at the finish
- Guarded changing rooms
- A service of physiotherapists, osteopaths, and masseurs
The starts and finishes of the Annecy marathon
The race takes place in Annecy, with a start and finish on the avenue of Albigny. Numerous animations and services are offered in parallel on the Pâquier. Runners benefit from the support of spectators throughout the course. For an even more unique experience, supporters can participate in a cruise on Lake Annecy, boarding from the Napoleon III quay.
The records of the Annecy marathon
- For men: Felix Kirui Kiprotich (2022) in 2 h 11 min 26 sec.
- For women: Cynthia Chepchirchir Kosgei (2022) in 2 h 28 min 03 sec.
40 years of the International Lake Annecy Marathon
The 2026 edition
The Annecy Marathon 2026 will take place on April 18 and 19. As every year, several race formats will be offered in addition to the marathon so that everyone can participate according to their level. On the program: the marathon, the half-marathon, 10 km and 5 km races, a Nordic walk, and a 750 m race for 7–15 year-olds.
Throughout the weekend, a Marathon Village will be set up on the Pâquier. There will be partner stands, conferences, race arrivals and broadcasts, as well as podiums for award ceremonies and recovery areas after the race. Photocalls, refreshment stands, food trucks, and a fan zone will also be present to enjoy the atmosphere. The traditional lasagna party, organized the night before the marathon, will take place on Saturday, April 18.
Past editions
The 2025 edition
The 2025 edition of the Lake Annecy Marathon took place on the weekend of April 26 and 27. As every year, in addition to the marathon, several other races were offered so that everyone could participate according to their level.
The night before, a Lasagna Party was organized at the Annecy Sports Park. From 7 PM to 11 PM, participants were able to share a friendly moment with friends or family.
The 2024 edition
The 2024 edition of the Lake Annecy Marathon took place from Saturday, April 13 to Sunday, April 14.
As every year, the start took place at the Pâquier, offering participants an exceptional setting on the west bank of the lake. They thus ran amidst beautiful landscapes, for an unforgettable experience.
The 2023 edition
The 2023 edition of the Lake Annecy Marathon took place on April 15 and 16. In February, 6,000 participants were already registered for this unmissable event that started at the Pâquier. The weekend saw several races take place, including the marathon, the half-marathon, and the youth race.
The poster for this edition was created by Gary Godel, an illustrator and English artist.
The 2022 edition
After two years of cancellation due to the health crisis, the Annecy Marathon 2022 finally took place on April 16 and 17, 2022.
Participants had the choice between different events, including the marathon, the half-marathon, the 10 km, and children’s races.
