Championnat du Canigó

Hard to find a race more crazy, wilder, or more original than this one. Let’s set the scene. The Canigo Championship or the Canigó Trail is first and foremost historic, rooted in the traditions of Catalonia, and more precisely Vernet-les-Bains, in the Pyrénées-Orientales, which has hosted this event since… 1905! Back then, the regime in France was the Third Republic, and it’s also the year of birth of a certain Jean-Paul Sartre 📓. Yes, it goes way back! Let’s talk course: you can choose the 11.5 km, the 21 km, or the traditional 34 km race that you can run with… a load of 8 kg on your back 🏋️! A madness, considering this race starts in the sweltering heat of August and climbs a total elevation gain of 2180m D+.

This tradition goes back to that famous year 1905 when 18 crazies set off on the route with a sack of 8 kg on their backs to honor the ice carriers who long ago descended the glacier of Canigou with blocks of 80 kg meant to refresh the wealthy spa guests. The race keeps the tradition alive but prohibits fetching ice to cool yourself. 🧊

So you can choose the classic 34 km, with or without a backpack 🐢. Soon, a big climb awaits you with the col de Jou to conquer. Then the pine forest carries you to the second aid station, the chance to observe while gathering strength at the Pic des Sept Hommes or the Prats de Mollo. You’ll then cross a few streams, then tackle further ascents for more viewpoints, at the lakes of Bassiès, for example. Next up is the Pic du Canigo, where the lack of oxygen can sometimes be felt. Caution: the peak is sacred, inhabited by witches, fairies, even dragons 🐉… Best not cross paths with those! After brushing the Top Cross of the Peak (a tradition!), it’s time for a descent that’s quite winding and dangerous.

Occitanie runs with Catalan blood, something you’ll feel as soon as you enter the region. The atmosphere is festive to the max, the music never stops. And if you want to keep the party going, you can head to the medieval town of Villefranche-de-Conflent 🏰. Taste local specialties like the anchovies or the ouillade—unique yet delicious.

Let's Canigo !