Bordeaux Wine Marathon: the most challenging marathon in the world

The Bordeaux wine marathon is a unique experience where sport merges with the pleasure of the palate. This extraordinary event allows you to run 42 kilometres through the most prestigious vineyards in the world while enjoying exclusive tastings.

If you like running and good wine, read on. We tell you everything you need to know about this marathon. To complete your experience in this city, we invite you to join our free tour of Bordeaux.

What is the Bordeaux Wine Marathon?

The Bordeaux Wine Marathon, known as the Marathon du Médoc, is a unique event that combines running with wine culture in the Médoc wine region, north of Bordeaux. This marathon is held annually and is famous for its festive atmosphere and its focus on fun rather than competition.

Unlike other marathons, here runners have the opportunity to enjoy wine tastings and local food along the route. With more than 20 refreshment stations, participants can savour the best wines of the region as they run.

More than a physical test, this event is a celebration of Bordeaux gastronomy. The time limit of 6 hours and 15 minutes allows runners to take their time to appreciate each tasting, making this marathon a unique experience that fuses sport and wine culture.

When and where will the next Bordeaux Wine Marathon take place?

The next edition of the Bordeaux Wine Marathon will take place on 6 September 2025 in the Médoc region, north of Bordeaux. The start is scheduled for 9.30am on the quays of Pauillac, with a colourful and musical pre-show starting at 8am. Bordeaux in September offers the perfect weather conditions for this unique event.

The Médoc wine region is famous for its prestigious vineyards and châteaux. Villages such as Pauillac, Saint-Estèphe and Saint-Julien become the setting for this festival of athletics and wine. If you want to learn about the history of Bordeaux, we recommend you visit some of the castles that are part of the route.

The Bordeaux wine marathon route

The route passes through some of the most prestigious vineyards in the world. Over 42.195 kilometres, participants discover the rich wine heritage of the region while enjoying an unparalleled sporting experience.

In fact, the route largely coincides with the best wine route in Bordeaux, allowing runners to discover the most emblematic châteaux of the Médoc. The trails through the vineyards and the stops at historic châteaux make this marathon a unique journey through the heart of the region.

42 kilometres through the best vineyards

The route runs through more than 25 emblematic vineyards. Before taking part, we recommend that you read what you need to know before tasting Bordeaux wines to make the most of this unique experience.

Tastings and gastronomy en route

Traditional refreshment stations and special tasting points are available for runners. The time limit of 6 hours and 15 minutes allows you to enjoy each stop without rushing.

Services for runners

The organisation offers complete services:

• Showers.
• Free cloakroom.
• Buses from Bordeaux to the start line in Pauillac

Full programme of the 2025 edition

Pre-race activities

The festival kicks off on Friday 5 September with the following activities:

• Race bib collection at the COSEC in Pauillac from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm.
• Pasta-Party at the Château Castera at 20:00 (limited to 1,450 participants).

Marathon Day

Saturday 6 September concentrates the main events:

• Parade of costumed runners from 8:00 h to 9:15 h.
• Start of the race at 9:30 am.
• Special theme ‘The Sea’ with maritime decoration and atmosphere.
• Prize-giving ceremony at 16:00 h.
• Crazy Music Concert at 21:00 h.
• Fireworks display at 22:30 h.
• Closing party until 00:30 h.

Sunday recovery

Sunday 7 September closes the festival with:

• A walk through the Médoc vineyards at 10:00 am (limited to 3,000 participants).
• Special lunch at the Château Castera at 12:30 pm.
• Rural lunch option for non-reserved participants.

How to take part in the next Bordeaux Wine Marathon?

If you want to take part in this unique event, it is important to plan your participation in advance. Anticipation is key, as bibs sell out quickly and accommodation in the region during these dates is in high demand.

Registration process and fees 2025

• Registration opens: March 2025.
• Basic race bib: 100€.
• Festive package (bib + Pasta-Party dinner): 128€.
• Pleasure package (race bib + Sunday walk + lunch): 153€.
• Prestige package (race bib + all activities): 211€.

Requirements and necessary documentation

• Minimum age: 20 years old before 6 September 2025.
• Specific medical certificate for competition (valid for a maximum of one year).
• Valid identity document.
• Proof of registration.

How to get to Pauillac

To get to Pauillac there are several transport options available from Bordeaux:

• Train: the most convenient way to get to Pauillac from Bordeaux is by train. You can take a train from Bordeaux St Jean station to Pauillac Ter. The journey takes approximately 52 minutes and there are several trains available throughout the day. Prices usually start at around €9.
• Bus: There are bus services connecting Bordeaux with Pauillac. For example, bus line 4285 is a convenient option for travellers without a car.
• Car: If you prefer to drive, Pauillac is located about 41 kilometres north of Bordeaux. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes, depending on traffic. The most direct route is via the D2 road.
• Taxi or VTC: Another option is to use a taxi or a chauffeur-driven transport vehicle (VTC) service. This can be more expensive, but offers convenience and flexibility.

Recommendations for participants

• Book your accommodation at least 6 months in advance.
• Use official transport services to avoid parking problems.
• Consider taking out cancellation insurance (+15€).
• Arrive on Friday to pick up your bib without rushing.
• Book complementary activities at the time of registration.

The Bordeaux Wine Marathon is a unique experience that fuses sport, culture and gastronomy in an incomparable setting. This unique event promises to be an unforgettable adventure where physical exertion is combined with the pleasure of discovering the wine treasures of the Médoc. For more details on registration, programme and services, please visit the official website of the Marathon du Médoc.