Be kind to your future self and sign up for an overseas event this winter... how about a unique marathon set between sea and palm trees with a glorious snow-covered mountain backdrop? But the real beauty of the French Riviera Marathon Nice-Cannes is that it is only a short flight away - so what are you waiting for?

The French event will celebrate its 16th birthday in 2024 and will welcome over 13,000 runners to help with celebrations on Sunday 3 November. Organisers comment: "Nearly 175,000 runners from more than 70 nations have taken part since the first edition in 2008.

"Come and run on one of the most beautiful routes in the world, enjoy the party and marathon spirit and enjoy a grand finish on the famous red carpet in Cannes!"


Those taking part will race from the famous Promenade des Anglais in Nice to the Croisette Boulevard in Cannes, a few metres from the steps of the legendary Palais des Festivals. The route crosses five emblematic French Riviera towns: Saint-Laurent-du-Var, Cagnes-sur-Mer, Villeneuve-Loubet, Antibes Juan-les-Pins and Vallauris Golfe-Juan.

Each of these towns brings a unique feel to the coastal course, offering a stunning backdrop that combines snow-capped mountains and palm trees. All those involved, spectators and participants alike can enjoy the music, bands and DJs that will be sprinkled along the route.

The French Riviera Marathon Nice-Cannes has been a member of the AIMS organisation for many years now and last year the event joined the Abbott World Marathon Majors group. This new label gives marathon finishers aged 40 and above the opportunity to be part of the series of ‘World Marathon Majors’ and gain points towards their global ranking.

The French Riviera Marathon Nice-Cannes isn’t exclusively for individual or elite runners. In fact, ever since the second edition, the event has been open to companies and groups to participate in the Marathon Relay which is open to teams of three to six runners. Additionally, the event offers a race format allowing teams of two to complete a half-marathon and there's also a 20K route from Nice to Villeneuve-Loubet.

If you'd like to know more, visit the French Riviera Marathon Nice-Cannes website.

Image: French Riviera Marathon Nice-Cannes