Trail de la Pierre qui Tourne

Cap sur le Fief-Sauvin désormais nommé Montrevault-sur-Evre, a commune in Maine-et-Loire. In the heart of the Pays de la Loire, you’re about to take part in a nature race in tribute to the menhir of Bréau also called the turning stone, hence the name of this trail! The thermometer shows low temperatures this March, but the vibe will warm you up in no time.

Pierre ? Present! Created in 2018 (well after the film RRRrrrr!!! by Alain Chabat), the Trail of the Turning Stone is a relatively new one. Yet, it already features one of the toughest events in the area (according to the organizers). Curious? Here’s the schedule: 4 distances await you with sometimes significant elevation gains. You’ll first find a 10 km with an elevation gain of 200 mD+, perfect for beginners, then 23 km with 600m D+, next you’ll tackle the 38 km (1000m D+), and to finish the big chunk with a 88 km displaying 2000m of positive elevation and 3 ITRA points, it’s a heavy hitter! The 88km can also be done as a two-person relay!

Trail running is all about nature and, above all, variety, so don’t expect to see stones all along the route. You’ll cross hillsidespaths, footpaths, forests and even fields 🌾. Watch out for technical sections, including a stretch where you’ll need to haul yourself up with a rope 🧗. It’ll climb again later, but this time in stairs. You’ll also run through mud, risking losing a shoe—hope you’ve learned to tie your laces! To reward your effort in this damp passage, a fairly pleasant panoramic view awaits, and a detour to the Evre valley as well—you’ll see it’s a real treat for the eyes! 👀

Once your trail in Montrevault-sur-Evre is finished, don’t hesitate to explore the region’s typical spots with a visit to the mill of L’Epinay or the Museum of Textile and Fashion in Cholet just a few kilometers away.

A rolling stone gathers no moss, but a turning stone gathers a crowd!