The Annecy International Marathon is much more than just a sporting event: it is a true experience between nature and performance, welcoming thousands of runners from around the world every year. 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 the participants. The 45th edition, scheduled for April 18 & 19, 2026, promises to attract growing enthusiasm for both experienced runners and passionate amateurs. This unmissable spring event 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 themselves in advance. From the registration procedure to discovering the routes, 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.
All you need to know about registration for the Annecy International Marathon 2026
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 event’s official website, a quick and secure method that offers the advantage of securing your place before the expected high demand. Registrations opened on October 21, 2025, at 6:30 p.m., kicking off the chance to reserve among the 3,000 bibs available across the various races.
It is also possible to register on-site before picking up the bibs, although this option remains risky, especially due to limited spots. Some official partners, such as running clubs or sports shops, also offer a registration service to facilitate the process. Bib pick-up will take place beforehand at Pâquier, the nerve center of the whole 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 in bulk.
- Youth and seniors: certain adapted races including a 750 m race for 7-15 year-olds.
- 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 old for the full marathon) to ensure safety. The variety of categories allows all profiles to participate and experience the unique ambiance of the race. However, the golden rule remains speed in 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 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 considering the different proposed events. Prices vary depending on 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 the 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 beginners or families, range between 20 and 30 euros. This pricing approach prioritizes accessibility while guaranteeing organizational quality.
Several pricing phases punctuate the registration period:
- Early bird rate: registration opens with a reduced price.
- Standard rate: available after the first phase.
- Last-minute rate: 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.
- People 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 technical t-shirt collector edition 2026.
- Refreshments throughout the course, essential to maintain endurance.
- Access to the Marathon Village and all weekend activities.
The prices reflect both the quality of 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 Annecy International Marathon course offers a superb setting that enhances every stride. The main marathon route is precisely measured at the official distance of 42.195 km, following an out-and-back circuit that runs along the west shore of the Lake Annecy, one of the purest and most beautiful lakes in Europe. The start and finish are traditionally located at the Pâquier, this large green space situated downtown, with a start scheduled at 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, April 19.
The route highlights remarkable sites:
- The Gardens of 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 route is mostly on roads, with a moderate elevation gain requiring appropriate physical preparation. Refreshment stations are strategically located about every 5 km, offering water, isotonic drinks, and fruit, essential to sustain endurance. Medical aid points are also installed at key locations to ensure optimal safety for participants.
Besides the classic marathon, several other races also take place:
- The half marathon, starting at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 18, on a partial but equally enchanting course.
- The 10 km and 5 km races, ideal for beginners, with successive starts on Saturday and Sunday morning.
- The Nordic walking, original by its boat start from the Gardens of Europe at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, with a route combining crossing and land walking at Menthon-Saint-Bernard.
- A 750 m race reserved for young people 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 in the city center, thus enhancing conviviality and proximity to spectators. Also, all races comply with strict guidelines regarding environmental respect and safety rules, highlighting 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 large-scale sporting event like the Annecy International Marathon requires perfect organization beforehand. The 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 bringing suitable equipment, notably light clothing but protective against humidity and wind.
For runners, it is advisable to prepare their stay well. Annecy offers a wide range of accommodations adapted to all budgets, ranging from downtown hotels to guest rooms and seasonal rentals near the lake. Easy access by train or car simplifies logistics. Bib pick-up is done on-site at Pâquier, and it is important to respect the indicated times to avoid crowds.
To support the effort, here are some recommendations on the recommended equipment:
- Running shoes adapted to asphalt and durable, with good cushioning.
- Breathable technical clothing, suitable for changing weather.
- Cap or headband to protect against the sun, as well as sunglasses.
- Small water bottle or hydration belt for the race, although refreshments are plentiful.
- A light windbreaker for cooler moments.
The Marathon Village set up at Pâquier is a central animation point where runners and their companions can enjoy partner stands, a fan zone area, refreshment stands, 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 friendly atmosphere typical of this sporting event.
See the event’s official website
For those who do not run, the race is very accessible for spectators, with several strategic points offering privileged views to encourage participants. Annecy and its region also benefit from a rich cultural and sporting program, inviting you to extend your stay exploring the local area. To fully enjoy the region, do not hesitate to consult the available activity suggestions, notably on the site dedicated to discovering Lake Annecy.
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Registrations open from October 21, 2025, mainly online via the official site. It is recommended 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 in 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 emblematic sites does the marathon route cross?
The route runs along Lake Annecy and crosses remarkable sites such as the Gardens of 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 pick-up takes place at Pâquier upon presentation of an ID and registration confirmation. Dates and times are specified on the official site.
Are there animations or parallel events during the weekend?
Yes, the Marathon Village offers numerous activities as well as the traditional Lasagne Party at the Annecy Sports Park the evening before the marathon to create a festive atmosphere.
Article mis à jour le 28 April 2026
