La Belle Course with Les Bougies de Charroux
Hiking Heritage Family

La Belle Course with Les Bougies de Charroux

Festive and heritage race in one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France

Charroux — Allier (03) Since 2024

About La Belle Course

Born from a collaboration between La French Run and Les Bougies de Charroux, La Belle Course is a sporting and festive event in the heart of Charroux, a medieval village labeled "Most Beautiful Villages of France" in the Allier. The program includes a 20 km trail race, a 10 km road race, a three-person relay, a 6 km gourmet walk with gastronomic refreshments, a medieval race for children, and a candlelit dinner. Sport, heritage, gastronomy, and conviviality blend in a remarkable historical setting.

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La Belle Course: Sport, Heritage, and Gastronomy in the Heart of Charroux

Created through a collaboration between La French Run and Les Bougies de Charroux, La Belle Course is much more than just a sporting event. It's a true celebration that transports participants into the medieval world of Charroux, a village in Bourbonnais whose history dates back to the 11th century and which today preserves remarkable architectural heritage, recognized by the "Most Beautiful Villages of France" label.

Events for All Levels

La Belle Course offers a customizable sporting experience that considers everyone's level and desires:

  • 20 km Trail: A demanding nature course through the hills and paths of Bourbonnais, offering exceptional panoramas of the Allier countryside.
  • 10 km Road Race: A fast and technical route through the medieval streets and surroundings of the village.
  • 10 km Relay: A three-person format to share the effort and conviviality.
  • 6 km Gourmet and Tourist Walk: A walk punctuated by three gastronomic refreshment stops highlighting local Bourbonnais products, ideal for discovering Charroux's heritage on foot.
  • 1 km Children's Medieval Race: A fun, costumed event for the youngest, immersing them in the medieval atmosphere.

An Exceptional Village as a Playground

Located 30 kilometers from Vichy, Charroux is a medieval gem nestled in the heart of the Allier. Its cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, clock tower, and remains of its fortified walls offer a unique setting for a sporting event. Runners traverse a landscape where history, nature, and culture blend, discovering the architectural and natural treasures of the village and its surroundings with every kilometer.

An Unforgettable Candlelit Evening

The day continues with a unique moment: a candlelit dinner organized in partnership with Les Bougies de Charroux, a renowned artisanal manufacturer of scented candles. In a warm and subdued atmosphere, participants and companions share a convivial meal celebrating local gastronomy. This highlight of the evening perfectly embodies the spirit of La Belle Course: combining athletic performance, heritage discovery, and the French art of living.

An Event Rooted in the Territory

La Belle Course is part of an initiative to promote the heritage and territory of the Allier. By combining sport and culture, the event contributes to the influence of Charroux and Bourbonnais, attracting runners and families from across the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and beyond.

Practical information — La Belle Course

Practical Information

Access and Transport

By Car: Charroux is located 30 km from Vichy, accessible via the D2009 then the D35. From Clermont-Ferrand, allow about 1 hour 15 minutes via the A71 motorway (Gannat exit). From Moulins, allow about 45 minutes.

By Train: The nearest stations are Gannat or Saint-Germain-des-Fossés, served by TER Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. Carpooling can be organized from the station.

Bib Collection

Bibs can be collected on the day of the race at the Charroux village hall, starting from 8:30 AM.

Start Times

  • 10:00 AM: 6 km Gourmet and Tourist Walk
  • 6:00 PM: 1 km Children's Medieval Race
  • 6:30 PM: 20 km Trail, 10 km Race, and 10 km Relay
  • 9:00 PM: Candlelit Dinner (reservations required)

Refreshments

Three gastronomic refreshment stops are offered on the courses, as well as a refreshment stop at the finish line in the village hall.

Registration

Registration is online on the official website labellecourse.com or via the Yaka-inscription platform.

Contact

For any questions, contact the organizing team by email at [email protected].

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Where does it take place — La Belle Course

Village de Charroux

Place de la Mairie, 03140 Charroux

Contact La Belle Course

La Belle Course in brief

Hiking Heritage Family Sport Trail Running Outdoor Participatory Allier