Trail de la Chaume

The Trail de la Chaume 2026 is a pure nature-running event held in the scenic commune of Givry in Saône-et-Loire. Scheduled for Sunday, May 3, 2026, this race is characterized by its "back-to-basics" philosophy, featuring courses that are 99% nature trails. Organized by the Association sportive du lycée Emiland Gauthey, the event has seen rapid growth, jumping from 260 participants in 2023 to nearly 550 in 2025. It is designed to be an immersive environmental experience, requiring runners to bring their own eco-cups for the wild, rugged paths that cut through the heart of the region's wilderness.

The event provides a comprehensive range of distances, from adult competitive trails to youth discovery runs. The courses are technical and hilly, emphasizing a wild environment over paved roads.

Givry is a renowned winemaking village in the Saône-et-Loire department, part of the Burgundy-Franche-Comté region. It has a population of approximately 3,700 residents. The village is a centerpiece of the Côte Chalonnaise, famous for its red wines that were historically the favorites of King Henri IV. Demographically, the population is largely French and European, with a social structure tied to viticulture, local craftsmanship, and the tourism sector. The median household income in the area is approximately €23,800 per year.

The local culture is a sophisticated blend of agricultural heritage and outdoor lifestyle. Givry is not just a place for wine enthusiasts; it is a gateway to the "chaumes"—the rocky, limestone grasslands that offer a unique biodiversity in Burgundy. The people of Givry, the "Givrotins," have a culture rooted in the seasonal rhythms of the vineyard and a deep respect for the surrounding limestone hills. The Trail de la Chaume captures this spirit perfectly, inviting people to leave the manicured vineyards for the raw, unpolished beauty of the higher trails. It is a culture that values authenticity and hard work, followed by a festive community gathering at the finish line near the public gymnasium.

Runners can expect a high-quality community atmosphere, with bib collection taking place on race morning (8:15 AM to 9:20 AM) at the Givry public gymnasium. Note: Poles are strictly prohibited, and runners on the 18.5 km course are recommended to carry their own water and snacks to complement the single aid station at km 8. The event rewards the top three overall finishers as well as category winners (Senior to Master 7). After the race, a catering stand provides a space for participants to decompress and enjoy the local hospitality of the Saône-et-Loire region.