Montée du Phare d'Eckmühl

The 18th Montée du Phare d'Eckmühl is an exhilarating race that challenges runners to conquer the historic lighthouse of Eckmühl. This annual competition features both a corporate relay and individual championship, each offering unique thrills for participants.
In the morning at 10:10 AM, teams representing various companies compete in the Relay Enterprise event, where three athletes take turns running up the steep staircase. Each team member ascends approximately one hundred steps before passing the baton to their teammate waiting just below the next set of stairs. This relay format fosters camaraderie and teamwork among competitors.
The individual championship begins at 1:40 PM with runners taking off in waves from 13:30 until 6:00 PM, ensuring a steady stream of athletes making their way up the lighthouse's narrow stone staircase. Participants are grouped into series of ten to thirteen racers and depart every minute, allowing for brief pauses between each wave as previous competitors descend.
The course itself is a formidable test of endurance and determination, beginning at the gate near the base of the lighthouse where runners tackle four initial steps before ascending 290 granite stairs in a spiraling staircase. The finish line is marked by crossing the threshold leading to the balcony atop the tower.
Safety measures are strictly enforced; competitors must adhere closely to the stone stairway without utilizing any alternate paths or shortcuts throughout their ascent.
After completing their climb, runners wait on the lighthouse's upper deck until all members of their series have finished before descending back down. This ensures that everyone has an equal chance and maintains a fair pace across each wave.
The event is meticulously organized with detailed schedules posted near the base of the tower and online by Friday evening to help participants plan their approach for optimal performance on race day.
With its challenging course, historic setting, and competitive spirit, the Montée du Phare d'Eckmühl offers an unforgettable experience for runners eager to push themselves in one of Europe's most iconic races.