Marathon de la Mer

Location: Boulogne Sur Mer
Country: France
Website: https://www.facebook.com/p/Le-Marathon-De-La-Mer-100063677481582/
2025 Marathon Date: 03/05/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 03/05/2026
Winning Time 2025: 02:28:37
% Sub-3s: 1–2%
# Sub-3s: 10–49
Total Runners: 1k–3k

The Marathon de la Mer is a coastal road race held each May in Boulogne-sur-Mer, a historic port city in northern France. The event offers a refreshing seaside marathon experience with a focus on local community, scenic maritime stretches, and a gently challenging course.

The route begins in Boulogne’s town centre and extends along the English Channel coastline before looping back. It includes rolling hills, long straights and a mix of urban and exposed sections. While not mountainous, the undulations and shifting wind conditions can make even pacing difficult—especially on the open seafront roads.

Weather in early May is typically mild, with a mix of overcast skies, sea breeze and cool morning temperatures. Rain is possible, but usually light. The start time is early enough to avoid mid-morning heat, and most years offer conditions that are well-suited to hard effort if winds are favourable.

Crowd support is strongest at the start and finish, with intermittent encouragement along the coastal stretches. Aid stations are present and functional, though the event maintains a more local, small-race atmosphere compared to major marathons. The route is well marked and volunteers are dependable.

For sub-3 runners, the Marathon de la Mer presents a modest field and a sparsely populated pacing cohort. The course can be run fast if conditions align and the early hills are approached with care. Runners comfortable working alone or in small groups will find the environment rewarding.

This marathon suits those who enjoy low-key races with a distinctive setting. It’s not designed for mass participation or elite depth, but it offers a unique regional experience with PB potential for those who manage its rhythm and terrain.