Marathon du Mont Blanc included in the Skyrunning World Championships

In June 2014, Chamonix will host the 7th edition of the Marathon du Mont-Blanc and for the first time three of the weekend's races will be part of the Skyrunning World Championships.

The International Skyrunning Federation (ISF) announced last year that the 2014 Skyrunning World Championships will include an ultra distance for the first time and that Chamonix would host the events.

There are three races, all of different distances: 

The Vertical KM (27 June) – This is a short, steep race, taking runners exactly 1000 metres up into the skies, and raced in the afternoon, starting at 4pm. 

The Marathon du Mont-Blanc (Sun 29 Jun) – the 42 km course starts in Chamonix and finishes at 2016m altitude at the Brevent base station. With 2511m elevation gain as well as 1490m downward descents as well, this is one of the most beautiful trail marathons in the world, offering amazing views of the Mont Blanc massif.  The race starts in Chamonix and works its way to Vallorcine (home of the Bellevue Alpine Lodge) before heading up to La Balme, down to Le Tour and then up again via Flegere to the finish.

Marathon du Mont-Blanc ©Pierre Raphoz

The Mont-Blanc 80KM (Fri 27 Jun) – this is a new race which will take place for the first time in 2014. With a challenging 6000m of vertical ascent over long ridges, snow fields and traversing glaciers this has the makings of a classic ultra trail race. 

Accommodation in Vallorcine

Whichever distance you go for, we wish all competitors the best of luck. More details on the races are available here.

Whether you are taking part or a spectator, and are looking for accommodation, then please do contact us at the Bellevue Alpine Lodge.

We are in a quiet location, away from hectic Chamonix, but less than 20 minutes by car.  It's perfect for training and for spectating, particularly for the Marathon.  Rooms are available from just €65 B&B or €85 Half Board.

We look forward to hearing from you. 

Article by Iain Martin