Running a marathon and sipping wine are not activities you’d usually expect to overlap. And yet, that’s precisely what happens at the Marathon du Médoc — affectionately known as the world’s drunkest marathon.

For lovers of wine, oysters and a good challenge, it may well be the perfect way to give both your cardiovascular system and your culinary instincts a serious workout. Hard to believe, but true: this is a marathon punctuated by more than 20 tasting stops along the route.

How it works ?

For 23 years now, up to 8,500 runners have descended upon the Médoc to take part in this wonderfully unconventional race. And the superlatives don’t stop there — it’s also considered one of the world’s longest marathons, thanks to the many pauses built into the experience: oyster tastings, wine breaks, live music… Boredom is simply not an option.

Costumes mandatory

One detail that makes the event especially delightful for spectators: fancy dress is compulsory. The guiding motto? More is more.
Depending on whether your goal is to run fast or taste as much as possible, you’ll want to choose your outfit wisely — sprinting with a giant giraffe head isn’t exactly aerodynamic. The only real requirement: keep your mouth accessible to enjoy all the regional delicacies waiting along the way. Each year comes with its own theme; this year’s was “Funfair”.

A marathon trough vineyard magic

The course winds through some of the Médoc’s most beautiful landscapes, past stunning châteaux and rows of vines at their most vibrant. Along the way, runners can indulge in a host of local treats — from oysters at kilometre 38 to steak at kilometre 39 — not to mention 23 wine-tasting stations.

Be part of the celebration

Registration for next year opens in March 2019, and places go fast.
If running isn’t your thing but you still want to experience the atmosphere, it’s well worth being there: cheering on the runners is part of the magic of this one‑of‑a‑kind sporting celebration.

While you wait for race day, we suggest getting into the spirit with a glass of Médoc wine — nothing builds anticipation quite like it. Médoc reds are famously bold, structured and age-worthy. Try a Château Les Tresquots or a Château Moulin de la Rivière for a taste of the region’s signature style.