5 trail races to get started in Marseille and its surroundings.

1. The Calanques Trail

📍 Luminy - at home

📅 February

↔️ From 19 km

THE great classic for trail runners in the Phocaean city, with the Calanques in the background, no less.

Yes, here we juggle between cliffs and turquoise water . Well, on the other hand, we don't start with the easiest race :). Better to plan a good training for a first: climbs that sting (+1000D+... ouch) but nothing traumatic either. Just raise your head to forget the hassle. Even at the finish, the panorama of Sormiou will almost make you shed a tear. For the adventurous muules, possibility of following up with a post-race swimming session.

Little Muule tips : trail shoes that grip the stones so you don't end up too quickly at the bottom of the cliff. Competitive shorts which fits well and a lightweight cap to avoid burning like a sardine.

2. Sainte-Baume Trail

📍 Cuges-Les-Pins - 30 min from Marseille
📅 February

↔️ From 15 km

Trail fun in perspective over here.

Shady trails , air that smells of pine trees, and an organization that does everything it can to ensure you have a memorable time. We recommend you go on the 15 km “ Skybaume” if you are a beginner. A good distance to challenge yourself without exploding like a balloon. Special mention to the moms and dads :): your little muules can also start with the Trail des Minots.

Little Muule tips: we think about catching a very compact hydration backpack (bye bye to water bottles that weigh a dead weight). And to be ultra comfortable: breathable underwear ( bra and panties for you ladies and boxers  technique for gentlemen).

3. The Pichauris Alpine Trail

📍Allauch - 30 min from Marseille.

📅 November

↔️ From 12 km

Here it’s “0% asphalt…100% off road”.

In the Pichauris Regional Park , you will slalom between the hills , with gentle climbs and fun descents. The little bonus? Crazy views of the scrubland and an arrival with the air of a Provençal festival. In any case, here the 12km course remains very accessible and fun for the muules who want to take it easy. With the goal of Ultra of 100km for next year eh? :)

Little Muule tips : a pair of light sticks , always nice on the climb (and it looks ultra professional). Awindbreaker jacket, because the hills can be surprising in terms of weather and it's winter after all. A headlamp if the race ends late (or if the aperitif goes on a bit longer…).

4. The Font de Mai Trail

📍Aubagne - 20 min from Marseille.

📅 May

↔️ From 10 km

Fancy a route that won't break your legs in a typically Provençal setting?

At the foot of the Garlaban, the Trail de la Font de Mai is perfect for beginners who want to work on their endurance gently (320D+), while reconnecting with nature . Because here we really dive into the hills of Pagnol, between olive groves, pine-lined paths and views of foufous. Little extra? the welcome in Aubagne is always great. You risk having a nice time and leaving with a smile.

Muule little tips: polarized sunglasses because the sun is strong here. A very breathable t-shirt to avoid sticking like Provencal nougat left in the sun. technical socks because yes, even your feet deserve the best of the best.

5. The 5 Calanques Trail

📍 Ensuès-la-Redonne - 25 min from Marseille
📅 April
↔️ From 8 km

You want something grandiose, wild , and a bit of "I signed up for this?" Then the Trail des 5 Calanques (yes, them again) is made for you. You go from one cove to the next like on a natural roller coaster, between climbs that make your calves scream and technical descents that test your balance. In any case, get ready to be amazed. You are even allowed to make a short stop to breathe, admire (and make your little Insta story that goes with it).

Little Muule tips: an ultra-high quality baselayer , because the technical underlayer that breathes is the base. A multi-function headband , the magic accessory that transforms at any time into a neck warmer, headband, or sweat wiper.