About Marathon de la Mer

The Marathon de la Mer is a major sporting event organized every May in Boulogne-sur-Mer. It offers four races: marathon, half-marathon, 10 km, and children's races. The course runs along the Opal Coast shoreline, between cliffs, beaches, and dunes. Recently created, it has quickly attracted 6,000 participants and has become an unmissable event in Pas-de-Calais, combining athletic performance and maritime heritage discovery.

The Marathon de la Mer: running facing the ocean

The Marathon de la Mer offers a unique experience for runners: to race through the magnificent landscapes of the Côte d'Opale at their own pace. Starting from Boulogne-sur-Mer, the course follows the coastline, between chalk cliffs, vast sandy beaches, wild dunes, and charming seaside villages. This marathon is one of the few in France to offer such a maritime environment throughout the event.

Four races for all levels

The Marathon de la Mer offers four race formats to allow everyone to participate, regardless of their level:

Marathon (42.195 km): the premier event for seasoned runners
Half-marathon (21.1 km): a challenge accessible to regular runners
10 km: an ideal distance for occasional runners and beginners
Children's race: adapted races for the youngest

An exceptional course

The Marathon de la Mer course runs through Boulogne-sur-Mer and the surrounding towns, offering a remarkable diversity of landscapes. Runners will pass through the historic center of Boulogne with its medieval ramparts, the seafront, the beaches of Le Portel and Équihen, and the cliffs overlooking the Strait of Dover. An unforgettable course that combines athletic effort and contemplation.

A festive weekend

The Marathon de la Mer is more than just a race: it's a true festive event. Picking up race bibs the day before offers an opportunity for a friendly Pasta Party bringing together runners and their companions. After the effort, a closing ceremony celebrates performances and the sporting spirit in a festive and warm atmosphere.

Boulogne-sur-Mer, the starting city

Boulogne-sur-Mer, France's leading fishing port and a city with a rich historical heritage, provides an ideal setting for this sporting event. The fortified upper town, the Nausicaá National Sea Centre, and the lively seafront offer an exceptional environment to welcome runners and their families.

Growing success

Created recently, the Marathon de la Mer has enjoyed immediate success, attracting 6,000 participants from its very first editions. This success highlights runners' attraction to maritime courses and the quality of the organization. The event contributes to the sporting and tourist influence of Boulogne-sur-Mer and the Côte d'Opale.

Practical information — Marathon de la Mer

Access

By car: Boulogne-sur-Mer is accessible via the A16 motorway. Parking is available in the city center and near the race start.

By train: Boulogne-Ville station is served by TER Hauts-de-France and TGV trains from Paris-Nord (approx. 2h30).

Registration and bib collection

Registration is open on the official Marathon de la Mer website. Registration closes: April 1st, subject to availability.

Bib collection: the day before the race, from 10 am to 8 pm. Pasta Party the day before at 7 pm (reservation required).

Prices

Marathon, half-marathon, and 10 km: decreasing prices depending on the registration date. Children's race is free. Consult the official website for current prices.

Contact

Marathon de la Mer
Website: www.marathondelamer.com

Marathon de la Mer