runners and spectators are gearing up for a dynamic Cheverny Marathon weekend, featuring a village atmosphere open to participants and supporters, a robust lineup of events around the Château Cheverny, and a celebratory pasta party. The schedule blends regional hospitality with competitive racing, anchored by precise start times and a lively course ambience.
Weekend Highlights And Venue Flow
The Marathon Village opens on Saturday, inviting runners and their companions to dive into a full weekend of activities.
Saturday Schedule
8:00 a.m.: Departure from Maslives for the Châteaux de la Loire trail.
11:00 a.m.: Departure from blois for the Châteaux de la Loire Trail.
4:30 p.m.: Start of the 10-kilometer race in front of the château façade.
Sunday Schedule
9:00 a.m.: Marathon and Marathon Duo begin in front of the château façade. Runners will line up behind pace leaders near the gate.
9:10 a.m.: Half Marathon starts.
estate Access During The Race Weekend
Access to the estate is expected to be smooth on Saturday. On Sunday, access to the ticket office could be intermittently disrupted until about 9:45 a.m., with improvements anticipated soon after. Attendees are advised to follow clear signage to reach parking areas.
The Pasta Party And Weekend Vibe
As part of the conviviality Challenge, the Cheverny Marathon promises a weekend rich in regional hospitality and community spirit. The lineup includes gastronomic refreshment, visits to cellars and wine estates, musical entertainment along the course, runners in disguise, a pasta party on Saturday evening, and a village open all weekend featuring local producers and friendly races in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
At-A-Glance Summary
Event
Time
Location
Notes
Maslives Departure – Loire Trail
8:00 a.m. (Sat)
Maslives
Trail start
Châteaux de la Loire Trail – Blois Departure
11:00 a.m.(Sat)
Blois
Trail start
10K Start
4:30 p.m. (Sat)
Front Of Château
Race begins
Marathon & Marathon Duo
9:00 a.m. (Sun)
Front Of Château
Line up behind pace leaders
Half Marathon
9:10 a.m. (Sun)
Front Of Château
Start
Estate Access
Sat: Easy; Sun: possible disruption until 9:45 a.m.
Estate
Follow parking signage
Which part of the Cheverny weekend are you most excited about? Do you plan to attend the pasta party and connect with regional producers?
Share your thoughts in the comments and invite fellow runners to join the party around the château.
What are the accommodation options near the Cheverny Marathon weekend?
Full Marathon Loop: Starts at Château front gate, follows the historic “Chemin des Rois” through vineyards, circles the Loire‑side forest, and returns via the charming Cheverny village streets.
Scenic Points:
Vineyard viewpoint (km 12) – panoramic view of Château vineyards.
Loire River Bridge (km 22) – iconic photo spot; temporary water station.
Old Mill Passage (km 35) – historic water mill turned art gallery.
Elevation Profile: Rolling hills with total ascent of 420 m; the steepest segment is a 3 % grade between km 28–30.
Aid Stations: Every 5 km (water, electrolytes, fresh fruit).Additional nutrition station at km 20 (energy gels,bananas).
Medical Support: Fully staffed medical tents at km 10, 20, and finish line; mobile first‑aid units every 2 km.
6. Visitor Data – Getting Ther & Staying
Accommodation Options
Château de Cheverny Alex Reedhouse – 4‑star boutique rooms (5‑minute walk to start line).
Hotel du Parc – Mid‑range, family rooms, free shuttle to expo.
Bed‑and‑Breakfasts – Several local B&Bs in Cheverny and nearby Montrichard (budget‑friendly).
Camping “les Marais” – Designated site for caravans and tents, with on‑site showers.
Transport & Parking
Train: SNCF TER line to Cheverny‑Gare (15 min bus to town centre).
Car: A‑71 autoroute, exit “Cheverny‑Sud”; public parking zones P1–P4 (free on race day).
Shuttle service: Complimentary shuttle from Orléans (30 km) runs every 30 minutes on race weekend.
Bike‑Share: “VéloLibre” stations at the town square and near the expo.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Must‑try dishes: Rillettes de Porc, Tarte tatin, and local Loire wines (Sancerre, Pouilly‑Fumé).
Vegetarian/vegan options available at the expo food court and weekend market.
7. Practical Tips for Runners & Spectators
What to Pack:
Race bib and timing chip (secure with safety pins).
Light, breathable layers (early morning can be 8 °C, rising to 18 °C).
sun protection – hat, sunglasses, SPF 30+.
Reusable water bottle (refill stations provided).
Personal ID and insurance card.
Weather Forecast (Typical May):
Average high: 17 °C; low: 8 °C.
Light rain probability ~20 %; bring a compact rain jacket.
safety & Etiquette:
Follow volunteer directions at aid stations.
Spectators advised to stay within designated viewing zones; no entry onto the course.
Keep the historic castle grounds clean – use provided trash bins.
Accessibility:
Wheelchair‑friendly routes for the half‑marathon and 10 km (gradual inclines, remote‑controlled ramps).
Accessible restrooms at the expo and finish area.
8. Highlights & Must‑See Experiences
Live Entertainment: Daily performances by regional folk bands, a jazz quartet at sunset, and a surprise headline act on race‑day evening.
Cultural Tour: Combine race participation with a guided tour of Château de Cheverny’s rooms, the famous “Moulins” (windmills), and the adjacent Parc Naturel Régional du Val de Loire.
Food & Wine Tastings: Dedicated “Taste of Cheverny” pavilion offers sampling of locally produced cheeses, honey, and organic wines.
Family Zone: Interactive running games, face painting, and a storytelling corner featuring tales of the “Count of Cheverny”.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (Quick Reference)
Question
answer
When should I arrive?
Recommended arrival on Saturday morning to attend the expo and pre‑race events.
Can I register on race day?
Day‑of‑race registration is limited to 100 spots for the 10 km run; full marathon slots are closed.
Is the marathon certified?
Yes – AIMS‑certified course, distance verified by a geodesic survey.
What is the baggage policy for the expo?
Lockers available on a first‑come, first‑served basis; no large suitcases allowed on the race course.
Are pets allowed?
Service animals are permitted at the expo and spectator areas; otherwise, pets must be left at home.
10. Post‑Race Recovery & Souvenirs
Recovery Zone: Massage chairs,foam rollers,and a hydration bar (electrolyte drinks,protein smoothies).
Merchandise: Official Cheverny Marathon T‑shirts, caps, and limited‑edition enamel pins featuring the château silhouette.
Photo Packages: Professional race photographers capture finish‑line moments; digital download codes sent via email within 48 hours.
All times are local (CET). For real‑time updates, download the official cheverny Marathon app or follow @ChevernyMarathon on Instagram and Twitter.
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