Marathon du Lac d'Annecy

Location: Annecy Lake
Country: France
Website: https://event.ahsa-athletisme.com/language/en/
2025 Marathon Date: 27/04/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 26/04/2026
Winning Time 2025: 02:18:43
% Sub-3s: 5–10%
# Sub-3s: 100–499
Total Runners: 1k–3k

The Marathon du Lac d'Annecy takes place each spring in the French Alpine town of Annecy, with a point-to-point course that traces the shoreline of Lake Annecy. Known for its scenic setting and flat profile, it is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful marathons in France and has strong appeal for time-focused runners seeking a picturesque yet fast race.

The route follows the lake’s eastern edge, starting in the south and finishing in central Annecy. It offers long, uninterrupted stretches with minimal elevation gain and very few turns. With mountains on one side and water on the other, the course is both visually striking and conducive to rhythm running.

Late April conditions in the region are typically cool and crisp in the early morning, with temperatures rising slightly as the race progresses. The combination of clean air, open skies and spring freshness supports sustained effort across the distance. Wind is possible along the shoreline but is rarely disruptive.

The race is well supported, with local enthusiasm and tight organisation. Aid stations are reliably placed and the signage is clear. Although the overall field size is moderate, the layout and structure of the event allow runners to spread out quickly, minimising bottlenecks and offering space to focus on pacing.

The Marathon du Lac d'Annecy is particularly well-suited to sub-3 runners looking for a fast time outside the bustle of major cities. Its rare blend of speed and natural beauty makes it a standout choice on the French calendar. For those prepared to travel, it delivers a highly runnable course in a striking location, with a strong track record of competitive amateur performances.