Discovering the trails: Trail in the Luberon and Monts de Vaucluse

A real gem for outdoor enthusiasts, it's a real playground and adventure playground for trail runners looking to test their endurance, in search of authentic experiences and sporting challenges in the heart of unspoilt nature, doubly recognised by UNESCO (Geopark and Biosphere Reserve). The trails that wind through forests, nature, lush vegetation and historic villages offer a diversity of landscapes and sensations.

What is trail running?

Trail running is a form of outdoor running that is distinguished by its environment: it is practised in the heart of nature on paths and tracks that are little or not tarmacked and forbidden to motorised vehicles: forests, mountains, plains, country roads (...), combining endurance and a strong connection with the natural environment. Yes, trail running is a communion with nature, an adventure that awakens the senses.

Unlike road running, trail running often involves significant gradients, both uphill and downhill, and requires technical skill to navigate varied and sometimes difficult terrain. Surfaces encountered can include rock, mud, tree roots, and even streams. It requires not only good physical condition, but also great care and the ability to adapt quickly to changing terrain.

The distances and routes of trail races can vary considerably, from a few kilometres to ultra-marathons of over 100 kilometres. Each race presents unique challenges, influenced by climate, terrain and altitude. For this reason, the trail runner's equipment is crucial: specialised trail shoes, clothing adapted to the weather conditions, a rucksack with water, food and safety equipment.

As well as the physical challenges, trail running offers an immersive experience in the heart of nature, allowing runners to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and connect with spectacular natural environments. It's an activity that not only promotes physical health, but also mental well-being, offering a sense of peace and fulfilment.

The very essence of trail running is freedom: the freedom to run through varied natural landscapes on all types of terrain. It's about being in harmony with your environment.

Whether you're an experienced runner or simply a trail enthusiast, start planning your next 2024 trail in the Luberon and Monts de Vaucluse!

Events: trails in the Luberon and Monts de Vaucluse

The Luberon and Monts de Vaucluse are home to several trail trails. Each trail offers a new way to discover and enjoy these incredible landscapes.

Run Lagnes 

TUESDAY 30 MARCH 2024 - Registration from 1 January

3x adult course and 3x children's course. A trail for all ages!

Adult course (from age 16) :

- a 9km "Fun" course, accessible to all and with no time limits ;
- a 16km 'Rock', wild and magical, with some fairly technical and steep sections;
- a 24km "Sky", a longer course with beautiful slopes and several technical sections.

Children's course:

The children's courses range from 1 to 5km and take place around the village of Lagnes and on the hill behind it.

More information

Relive the RUN LAGNES 2023 in pictures

Trail des Taillades - "Les Traillades

October 2024

3 trail courses: 8.6km, 11.6km and 22km.
2 children's trails also on the programme

Trail "Vitis & Castellum" Oppède-Maubec-Ménerbes

21st September 2024

2 courses :
- Petit parcouts Maubec - 9km.
- Long route from the threshing floor towards Ménerbes to the top of the Château - 18/19km.
Technical and timed trail - 300 numbers for the 2 trails.

Bonnieux night trail

Date to come

Every year, this warm and friendly event attracts large numbers of runners. The night-time race starts at dusk and winds its way through the picturesque paths of the Petit Luberon. Participants can choose between a 12km discovery trail with a 450m climb, or a more challenging 25km trail with a 1200m climb. All runners must bring a headlamp, a supply of water, a whistle, a survival blanket and a charged mobile phone.

More information

Fontaine de Vaucluse Trail

February 2024

2 courses, one of 12.8km and one of 24km

Trail du Grand Luberon Cabrières-d'Aigues

Sunday 27 May 2024

2 courses :

- The 25km Trail du Grand Luberon (TGL), which will take in the Mourre Nègre, the highest point in the Luberon, with its steady climbs and challenging downhill singles.

- The 14km Trail du Cabri d'Aigues, with a passage through the Escalette ravine to join the GR9 ascent of the Basse de Cabrières. Take it easy on the crests to admire the 360° panorama of the Provencal massifs before descending to the Pécou jas, the pied de bœuf, the tombe du pin and the traditional finish on the Château steps.

More information

Trail des Monts de Vaucluse - Saumane-de-Vaucluse

November 2024

2 trail courses are available: a 10.5km course and a 24km course.

More information

So, are you ready to take on these sporting challenges?