Trail des cadoles
Some races are notable for their altitude difference. Others because of their atmosphere. And then there are those that tick all the boxes. The Trail des Cadoles falls into this rare category. Head for Saône-et-Loire, in the heart of the Tournugeois region, for a plunge onto the wild trails of the Brancion massif, with the Château in your sights. The stage is set, it's up to you.
What you'll find on site :
4 courses to test your legs;
Well-placed refreshment points to keep you going along the way;
A left-luggage office where you can leave your stuff and get the most out of it;
A refreshment bar and snack bar to prolong the pleasure after the race.
Course focus :
Expect paths and tracks, almost total immersion in Natura 2000 classified areas, and a clear dominant feature: single-track. Up to 80% of the trails are narrow, challenging, sometimes technical, but always inspiring.
The 6km, a gentle start to trail running, with no time limit and no pressure.
The 11km is accessible, but far from bland. It takes you over the legendary Arbanais single, before a final loop through the medieval village. A non-negotiable bonus: the sunset over the Grosne valley to finish in style.
The 18km takes things up a notch. A concentration of the best of the Brancion massif, with the gradient spread out intelligently. More than 600m of gradient to swallow, constant restarts, very little tarmac, and always the cadoles, low walls and wooded passages that add relief to every stride.
The 27km is the race of the lords. A wide loop around the former seigneury of Brancion, with panoramic views over the Grosne valley, then a return south along the tracks of the cadoles. The finish is the same as the 18 km, at dusk, when the light becomes soft and the legs begin to negotiate in earnest. A photo in the setting sun, a visit to the château and a well-deserved finish.
3 good reasons to take part:
A wild and immersive route, mostly single-track, with views that are as calming as they are impressive;
A royal finish - you can't put a price on running up to the majestic Château de Brancion;
Organisers with an eye for detail.
So, are you ready to venture out on the Trail des Cadoles?
#trail#nature race#brancion#cadole