The Annecy International Marathon is much more than just a sporting event: it is a true experience combining nature and performance, welcoming every year thousands of runners from around the world. In the heart of the French Alps, Annecy captivates with its exceptional setting, where lake and mountains blend harmoniously to offer a spectacular backdrop to participants. The 45th edition, scheduled for April 2026, promises to attract growing enthusiasm both from seasoned runners and passionate amateurs. This unmissable spring rendezvous will be marked by a rich and varied program, combining endurance, friendliness, and discovery of local heritage.
Registrations, prices, and routes are essential information to best prepare for this event. Whether you want to run the full marathon, the half marathon, the 10 km or 5 km races, or even try the original Nordic walking, each participant must organize in advance. From the registration procedure to the discovery of the courses, including the benefits included in the registration fees, this complete guide supports you in preparing for this edition not to be missed. Beyond the race, Annecy comes alive all weekend with activities and a Marathon Village where celebration and team spirit take center stage.
Everything you need to know about registrations for the Annecy International Marathon 2026
Participating in the Annecy International Marathon requires carefully prepared registration, which is why understanding the terms is crucial. Registration is mainly done online via the official event website, a fast and secure method that offers the advantage of securing your place before the expected heavy demand. Registrations opened from October 21, 2025 at 6:30 PM, marking the kickoff to reserve among the 3,000 bibs available across the different races.
It is also possible to register on-site before bib pickup, although this option remains risky, especially due to limited spots. Some official partners, such as running clubs or sports shops, also offer registration services to facilitate the process. Bib pickup will be done in advance, at the Pâquier, the nerve center of the entire marathon, to be presented with a valid ID and registration confirmation. This step is mandatory to validate your participation.
Registrations concern several categories:
- Individuals: professional or amateur runners running solo.
- Groups: sports clubs and associations can register their members as a block.
- Youth and seniors: certain adapted races including the 750 m race for ages 7-15.
- Walkers: for Nordic walking, accessible from 16 years old, with a special start.
A minimum age limit is in place for some events (for example, 18 years or older for the full marathon) to ensure safety. The variety of categories allows all profiles to participate and experience the unique atmosphere of the race. However, the golden rule remains speed in registering: the previous edition sold out in less than two months, a sign of the growing popularity of this endurance event.
Practical details on the prices for the Annecy International Marathon 2026
The registration fees for the Annecy International Marathon are designed to offer a complete experience to participants, while taking into account the different events offered. Prices vary according to the distance and the registration period, allowing everyone to better plan their participation according to their budget and availability.
The full marathon is priced around 75 to 95 euros depending on whether registration is made during the early bird phase or regular registration. The half marathon, a very popular event among intermediate runners, offers slightly lower prices, ranging from 40 to 55 euros. The shorter 10 km and 5 km races, ideal for beginner runners or families, range between 20 and 30 euros. This pricing approach is accessible while guaranteeing organizational quality.
There are several pricing phases during the registration period:
- Early bird pricing: registration opens at a reduced price.
- Standard pricing: available after the first phase.
- Last-minute pricing: increased for very late registrations.
Discounts are planned for some fairly specific profiles:
- Students upon presentation of a valid card.
- Groups of 10 people or more.
- Persons over 65 years old.
The fees include several essential services:
- The official bib, personalized and your access to the race.
- The electronic timing chip for precise performance tracking.
- The 2026 edition technical t-shirt, collector.
- Refreshments throughout the course, essential to maintain endurance.
- Access to the Marathon Village and all the weekend’s activities.
The prices reflect both the quality of the organization and the festive atmosphere surrounding this race, making the value for money attractive for all running and endurance enthusiasts.
Discover the routes of the Annecy International Marathon 2026
The route of the Annecy International Marathon offers a superb setting that enhances every stride. The main marathon course is precisely measured at the official distance of 42.195 km, following an out-and-back circuit that runs along the west shore of Lake Annecy, one of the purest and most beautiful lakes in Europe. The start and finish are traditionally located at the Pâquier, this vast green space in the city center, with a start scheduled at 8:00 AM on Sunday, April 19.
The route highlights remarkable sites:
- The Jardins de l’Europe, last green havens before the city.
- The Bout-du-Lac National Nature Reserve, an ecological sanctuary rich in biodiversity.
- The charming villages of Sevrier and Saint-Jorioz, nestled by the water.
- Exceptional panoramas where the view stretches between lake and alpine peaks.
The course is mostly on road, with a moderate elevation that requires adapted physical preparation. Refreshment stations are conveniently located approximately every 5 km, offering water, isotonic drinks, and fruits, essential to support endurance. Medical aid points are also installed at strategic locations to ensure optimal safety for participants.
In addition to the classic marathon, several other races are also held:
- The half marathon, starting at 9:00 AM on Saturday, April 18, on a partial but equally enchanting course.
- The 10 km and 5 km races, ideal for beginners, with consecutive starts on Saturday and Sunday morning.
- The Nordic walking, original by its boat start from the Jardins de l’Europe at 9:30 AM on Sunday, with a route combining crossing and land walk at Menthon-Saint-Bernard.
- A 750 m race reserved for youth aged 7 to 15, promoting initiation to running.
Compared to previous years, this edition features a slight modification of the half marathon route to offer more passages through the city center, thus enhancing friendliness and closeness with the spectators. Also, all races adhere to a strict specification concerning environmental respect and safety rules, reminding the importance of adopting a responsible attitude during these endurance races.
Additional practical information to well prepare for the Annecy International Marathon
Participating in a major sporting event like the Annecy International Marathon requires perfect organization in advance. Weather conditions in April are usually mild, with temperatures ranging between 8 and 15 degrees Celsius. This period is ideal for running, although possible showers encourage preparing appropriate equipment, notably light clothes but protective against humidity and wind.
For runners, it is advised to prepare their stay well. Annecy offers a wide range of accommodations suited to all budgets, from downtown hotels to guesthouses and seasonal rentals near the lake. Easy access by train or car simplifies logistics. Bib pickup takes place at the Pâquier site, and it is important to respect the indicated times to avoid crowds.
To support the effort, here are some recommendations on the suggested equipment:
- Running shoes adapted to tarmac and durable, with good cushioning.
- Breathable technical clothing, suited to climate changes.
- Cap or headband for sun protection, as well as sunglasses.
- Small water bottle or hydration belt for the run, although refreshments are plentiful.
- A light windbreaker for cooler moments.
The Marathon Village set up on the Pâquier is a central entertainment spot where runners and their companions can enjoy partner stands, a fan zone area, refreshment stalls, and even food trucks for a tasty break. The traditional Lasagne Party, scheduled on Saturday evening at the Annecy Sports Park, is also one of the highlights and contributes to the conviviality typical of this sporting event.
See the event’s official website
For those who do not run, the race is very accessible to spectators, with several strategic points offering privileged views to cheer on participants. Annecy and its region also benefit from a rich program of cultural and sporting events, inviting visitors to extend their stay with local discoveries. To fully enjoy the area, do not hesitate to consult the activity suggestions available, notably on the site dedicated to discovering Lake Annecy.
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Registrations open from October 21, 2025, mainly online via the official website. It is advised to register quickly, as places are limited and the event is very popular.
What are the registration fees for the different races?
Prices vary depending on the race with preferential prices during the early bird phase. The full marathon costs between 75 and 95 euros, the half marathon between 40 and 55 euros, and shorter races are less expensive.
Which iconic sites does the marathon route cross?
The route runs along Lake Annecy and crosses remarkable sites such as the Jardins de l’Europe, the Bout-du-Lac Nature Reserve, and the villages of Sevrier and Saint-Jorioz.
How to pick up your bib before the race?
Bib pickup is done at the Pâquier upon presentation of an ID and the registration confirmation. The dates and times are specified on the official website.
Are there parallel animations or events during the weekend?
Yes, the Marathon Village offers many activities as well as the traditional Lasagne Party at the Annecy Sports Park the evening before the marathon to create a festive atmosphere.
