The Annecy International Marathon is much more than just a sporting event: it is a genuine experience blending nature and performance, welcoming thousands of runners from around the world each year. At the heart of the French Alps, Annecy enchants with its exceptional setting, where lake and mountains harmoniously combine to offer a spectacular backdrop for participants. The 45th edition, scheduled for April 18 & 19, 2026, promises to attract growing enthusiasm from both seasoned runners and passionate amateurs. This unmissable spring event will be marked by a rich and varied program, combining endurance, friendliness, and discovery of the local heritage.
Registrations, fees, 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 unique Nordic walking, each participant must organize in advance. From the registration process to discovering the courses, including the benefits included in the registration fees, this complete guide will accompany you in preparing for this edition not to be missed. Beyond the race, Annecy comes alive throughout the weekend with entertainment and a Marathon Village where celebration and team spirit take center stage.
Everything you need to know about registration for the 2026 Annecy International Marathon
Participating in the Annecy International Marathon requires carefully prepared registration, which is why understanding the procedures is crucial. Registration is mainly done online via the official event website, a fast and secure method that offers the advantage of securing your spot before the expected high demand. Registrations opened as early as October 21, 2025, at 6:30 pm, kicking off the booking for the 3,000 bibs available across the different races.
It is also possible to register on-site before bib collection, although this option remains risky, especially due to limited places. Some official partners, such as running clubs or sports shops, also offer a registration service to facilitate the process. Bib collection will take place beforehand at Pâquier, the nerve center of the marathon, to be presented with a valid ID and registration confirmation. This step is mandatory to validate your participation.
Registrations cover several categories:
- Individuals: professional or amateur runners running alone.
- Groups: clubs and sports associations can register their members as a block.
- Youths and seniors: adapted races including the 750 m race for ages 7-15.
- Walkers: for Nordic walking, accessible from age 16, with a special start.
A minimum age limit is in place for certain events (for example, 18 years old 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 for registration: the previous edition sold out in less than two months, a sign of the growing popularity of this endurance event.
Practical details on the fees for the 2026 Annecy International Marathon
The registration fees for the Annecy International Marathon are designed to offer a complete experience to participants, while considering the various events offered. Fees vary according to the distance and 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 done during the early bird phase or regular registration. The half-marathon, a highly appreciated event by intermediate runners, offers slightly lower fees, 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 approach promotes accessible pricing while ensuring organizational quality.
Several pricing phases punctuate the registration period:
- Early bird fee: registration opens with a reduced price.
- Standard fee: available after the first phase.
- Last-minute fee: increased for very late registrations.
Discounts are planned for certain rather specific profiles:
- Students upon presentation of a valid card.
- Groups of 10 people or more.
- People over 65 years of age.
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 technical t-shirt collector 2026 edition.
- Refreshments throughout the course, essential to maintain endurance.
- Access to the Marathon Village and all weekend events.
The fees reflect both the quality of organization and the festive atmosphere surrounding this race, making the value for money attractive to all running and endurance enthusiasts.
Discovering the routes of the 2026 Annecy International Marathon
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 along the west bank of the Lake Annecy, one of the purest and most beautiful lakes in Europe. The start and finish are traditionally located at Pâquier, a large green space situated in the city center, with a start scheduled for 8:00 am on Sunday, April 19.
The course 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’s edge.
- Exceptional panoramas where the view stretches between lake and alpine peaks.
The course is mainly on road, with a moderate elevation gain requiring appropriate physical preparation. Refreshment zones are strategically located approximately every 5 km, offering water, isotonic drinks, and fruits, essential to sustain endurance. Medical aid points are also installed at strategic locations to ensure optimal participant safety.
Besides the classic marathon, several other races also take place:
- 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 newcomers, with successive starts on Saturday and Sunday mornings.
- The Nordic walking, unique with its boat departure from the Jardins de l’Europe at 9:30 am on Sunday, combining crossing and land walking in Menthon-Saint-Bernard.
- A 750 m race reserved for youths aged 7 to 15, fostering introduction 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 conviviality and proximity to spectators. Additionally, all races adhere to strict specifications regarding environmental protection and safety rules, emphasizing the importance of adopting a responsible attitude during these endurance races.
Additional practical information to properly prepare for the Annecy International Marathon
Participating in a major sporting event like the Annecy International Marathon requires perfect organization beforehand. Weather conditions in April are usually mild, with temperatures ranging between 8 to 15 degrees Celsius. This period is ideal for running, although possible showers encourage planning appropriate equipment, notably lightweight but protective clothing against moisture and wind.
For runners, it is advisable to well prepare their stay. Annecy offers a wide range of accommodations suitable for all budgets, from downtown hotels to guesthouses and seasonal rentals near the lake. Easy access by train or car simplifies logistics. Bib collection takes place at the Pâquier site, and it is important to respect the indicated times to avoid crowds.
To accompany the effort, here are some recommendations on the suggested equipment:
- Running shoes adapted for pavement and durable, with good cushioning.
- Breathable technical clothing, suitable for changing weather conditions.
- Cap or headband to protect from the sun, as well as sunglasses.
- Small water bottle or hydration belt for the run, although refreshment points are numerous.
- A lightweight windbreaker for cooler moments.
The Marathon Village set up at the Pâquier is a central entertainment point where runners and their companions can enjoy partner stands, a fan zone, drink stalls, and even food trucks for a tasty break. The traditional Lasagne Party, scheduled for Saturday evening at the Annecy Sports Park, is also one of the highlights and contributes to the friendly atmosphere unique to this sporting event.
See the official event website
For those who do not run, the race is very accessible to spectators, with several strategic points offering privileged views to encourage participants. Annecy and its region also offer a rich program of cultural and sporting events, inviting to extend the stay by exploring the local area. To fully enjoy the region, do not hesitate to consult activity suggestions available, notably on the dedicated Lake Annecy discovery site.
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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 very popular.
What are the registration fees for the different races?
Fees vary according to 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 the shorter races are less expensive.
Which emblematic sites does the marathon route pass through?
The route runs along Lake Annecy and passes through 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 collect your bib before the race?
Bib collection is done at Pâquier upon presentation of an ID and registration confirmation. Dates and times are specified on the official website.
Are there animations or parallel events during the weekend?
Yes, the Marathon Village offers many animations as well as the traditional Lasagne Party at the Annecy Sports Park the night before the marathon to create a festive atmosphere.
Article mis à jour le 7 April 2026
