Nice Côte d’Azur by UTMB 2026: Ultimate Sea-to-Summit Race Guide

The Nice Côte d’Azur by UTMB 2026 stands out as one of the most dynamic events on the European trail running calendar. Scheduled from September 24 to 27, 2026, this premier French stop in the UTMB World Series takes runners on an extraordinary journey from the high alpine peaks of the Mercantour National Park down to the turquoise shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Featuring four major distance categories that offer valuable Running Stones for the UTMB World Series Finals in Chamonix, the event seamlessly blends rugged mountain technicality with Mediterranean glamor.

Course Profiles & Race Distance Options

From 3,000-meter alpine ridges to coastal cliffside singletracks, the event accommodates seasoned ultra-marathoners and entry-level trail runners alike across four distinct routes.

Race Category	Distance	Elevation Gain (D+)	Start Location	Finish Location	Key Highlight
Nice 100M	165 km	8,900 m	Auron	Promenade des Anglais	Glacial lakes and high Mercantour peaks
Nice 100K	109 km	5,400 m	Roubion	Promenade des Anglais	Cliffside village start and Tinée valley views
Nice 50K	50 km	2,000 m	Éze	Promenade des Anglais	Panoramic Riviera views around Fort de la Revère
Nice 20K	23 km	680 m	Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat	Promenade des Anglais	Coastal loop around the Cap-Ferrat peninsula

What Makes the Nice UTMB Course Unique?

Unlike traditional loop races centered entirely within mountain valleys, the Nice Côte d’Azur layout offers a true point-to-point journey traversing vastly different ecosystems.

The Contrast of Mercantour and Mediterranean Coastal Trails

• Alpine Glacial Lakes: The 100M and 100K courses weave through high-altitude lakes such as Lac Nègre, surrounded by Scots pines and granite crags under the shadow of Cime du Gélas (3,143m).
• Perched Medieval Villages: Runners pass historic cliffside settlements including Roubion, Peille, and Peillon before descending along ancient irrigation paths.
• The Iconic Beachfront Finish: Every distance concludes with a final stretch along the world-famous Promenade des Anglais in the heart of Nice.

Live Tracking & Spectator Planning for Race Weekend

With course routes spanning the Alpes-Maritimes region, staying updated on athlete progress requires efficient digital tools and strategic transit planning.

How to Follow Athletes Live

1. Official UTMB Live Platform: Access real-time timing updates, split calculations, and rank updates at live.utmb.world.
2. Automated Checkpoint Alerts: Bookmark your favorite runners to receive instant notifications as they cross aid station timing mats.
3. LiveCam Feeds: Stream video coverage from high-density aid stations along the course.

Spectator Logistics & Transport Tips

• Lignes d’Azur Regional Public Transport: Utilize local train and bus lines connecting Nice to Éze, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat to avoid mountain road congestion.
• Aid Station Access Rules: Support crews are restricted to designated aid station zones; check race regulations for specific crew pass credentials.