Marseille–Cassis: a legendary 20 km race between the Mediterranean and the hills

Alex proudly showing his medal after completing the 20 km Marseille–Cassis race

Every year, at the end of October, the Marseille–Cassis race returns — much to the delight of running enthusiasts.

This iconic event links Marseille’s Stade Vélodrome to the heights of Cassis. It brings together both amateur runners and seasoned athletes, all united by the same passion for challenge.

A race with deep roots

The Calanques, a breathtaking landscape between sea and hills along the Marseille–Cassis route

Créé en 1979, le Marseille–Cassis est devenu l’un des rendez-vous les plus attendus du calendrier de course à pied en France.

Il a été créé par le club d’athlétisme SCO Sainte-Marguerite, avec l’ambition de proposer une épreuve à la fois exigeante et accessible, mettant en valeur la beauté naturelle de la région provençale.

Depuis sa création, le succès de l’événement ne s’est jamais démenti.

Chaque année, plus de 20 000 coureurs prennent le départ, venus de toute la France et de l’étranger. Nous avons même des amis qui, à une semaine du départ, sont toujours en liste d’attente !

On retrouve souvent des personnalités françaises — sportives ou non — venues relever le défi. Les plus grands noms de l’athlétisme ont, eux aussi, marqué de leur empreinte cette course mythique du sud de la France.

A course as demanding as it is beautiful

The iconic start line: Marseille’s Stade Vélodrome, where the race begins

Stretching over 20 kilometers, the race starts in Marseille, at the foot of the Stade Vélodrome.

Runners then climb up to the Col de la Gineste (327 m above sea level) before descending toward the sea, through the stunning landscapes of the Calanques National Park.

The route is known for its difficulty: a steady 10-kilometer climb followed by a descent into Cassis.

It requires solid preparation and great mental strength.

Alex, a determined runner

A moment of friendship before the start: Alex and her friend Julie ready to take on the challenge

Last year, Alex took on the challenge. With barely a month of training, he still managed to finish the Marseille–Cassis in 1 hour and 50 minutes — an impressive time given his preparation… or rather, his lack of it!

This year, he’s coming back more motivated than ever.

Since August, he’s been following a structured training program, including:

• regular runs,

• long sessions,

• strength training,

• and even a few visits to the osteopath to ease the beginnings of sciatica and some back pain.

He’s been all in since the end of summer, completely focused on his goal.

The kids and I are so proud of him.

Even though this year neither the kids (on vacation) nor I (at work) will be there in person, we’ll be cheering him on from afar — following his progress and eagerly waiting for his official time.

I’ll update the article soon with his final result: 1h39!

A tradition that goes beyond sport

After the effort comes the reward! Alex, Julie, Ismaël and I celebrating the race over a good meal

More than just a race, Marseille–Cassis is a ritual — a powerful autumn moment that connects runners with their willpower, with nature, and with the joy of surpassing themselves.

It’s also a moment of sharing, even for those who don’t run: following a loved one, cheering from the roadside, or simply feeling the excitement in the air — all of that is part of the adventure.

Last year, Ismaël and I waited in Marseille for Julie (his wife) and Alex to return from Cassis by bus. We had lunch together afterwards and, as you can see in the photo, we celebrated their success in style!

As Alex is about to take on the race once again, we wish him a run that reflects his efforts.

Go Alex!

And you — if you were here on immersion in Provence, would you take the start line… or cheer from the side of the road? 🏃‍♀️☀️

🧭 At glance

• Full name: Marseille–Cassis

• Distance: 20 km

• Elevation gain: 327 m

• Start: Stade Vélodrome, Marseille

• Finish: the heights of Cassis

• Next edition: Sunday, October 26th, 2025

• Official website: www.marseille-cassis.com