Between land and water, the Pays des Achards in Vendée offers an ideal playground for sports and nature lovers. Every year, several events Athletes bring the region to life, bringing together enthusiasts and curious minds around friendly challenges. Whether you're a runner, hiker, or just a spectator, discover the unmissable events not to be missed!
Imagine some large natural spaces punctuated by many hiking trails and decorated with bodies of water as well as a lake. Add to that nature lovers, walking and running aficionados, committed associations and many volunteers eager to share their passion. You then get the ideal combination to experience a wide variety of sporting events and adapted to different levels of difficulty.
Major sporting events in the Pays des Achards in Vendée
Whether you want to actively participate or encourage the competitors, we have grouped together for you the major sporting events that punctuate life in the Pays des Achards in Vendée every year.
Trail and nature races
- Lake Trails and Nordic des Achards : This unmissable sporting event in May highlights the diversity of the landscapes around the Jaunay LakeWith several trail and Nordic walking courses on hilly terrain, this event offers a challenge accessible to all, in the heart of an exceptional natural setting.
- Trail of the Ciboule : Organized every July 14th on the commune of Girouard, this event offers several trail courses through wooded paths and varied terrain. It also includes an accessible initiation called "La Ciboulette" as well as a walk for hiking enthusiasts.
- Beaulieu Winter Trail (BWT) : For winter running enthusiasts, this trail offers night and day races, a challenge version and a kids' race at the beginning of March at Beaulieu-sous-la-Roche.
![Départ Course nocturne Beaulieu Winter Trail]()
BWT night race departure ![Beaulieu Winter Trail groupe]()
Beaulieu Winter Trail Race ![Départ course trail Beaulieu Winter Trail]()
Departure from the BWT ![Départ Trail de la Ciboule au Girouard Vendée]()
Departure of the Ciboule Trail ![Chemins Trail de la Ciboule au Girouard]()
Trail of the Ciboule
Road races and timed challenges
- Corrida des Achards : Organized in November at Achards (La Mothe district), this race offers several routes that can be done in a group as part of the “Company Challenge”, but also as an individual runner.
- Chrono of the Pickles This cycling time trial, held in September, is aimed at riders seeking performance. The race emphasizes speed and precision, attracting the sharpest competitors.
- Gravel in Life : On April 26 and 27, 2025, this cycling adventure will cross the Pays des Achards during a weekend dedicated to gravel, conviviality and Vendée landscapes. Three routes are offered : 160 km on Saturday, 80 or 50 km on Sunday, on trails and small roads accessible to all. Gourmet refreshments, DJ evening and large sardine party complete this festive weekend!
The calendar of sporting events not to be missed
To ensure you don't miss any events, check our website regularly. sporting events calendar Below you will find the dates, locations, and registration details for upcoming races, hikes, and sporting challenges in the Pays des Achards.
Le 18/05/2025
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Previous
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Le 23/06/2025
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Le 27/06/2025
Le 14/07/2025
Le 30/08/2025
The Ironman 70.3 of Les Sables d'Olonne
The Ironman 70.3 of Les Sables d'Olonne is a major event that attracts triathletes from all over the world. Since 2019, this prestigious competition has included:
- A 1,9 km swimming event in the Sables d'Olonne canal,
- A 90 km cycle route crossing varied landscapes, including the Pays des Achards in Vendée,
- A 21,1 km half-marathon along the Promenade du Remblai.
The first full Ironman Vendée edition will take place June 22 2025.
Josephine in the Land of Achards in Vendée
The Josephine is a 100% women's race and walk, initiated in 2015 in La Roche-sur-Yon, in Vendée. Its name pays homage to Joséphine de Beauharnais, first wife of Napoleon I. The Emperor had decided in 1804 to make La Roche-sur-Yon the capital of Vendée.
At the beginning of October, a “pink crowd” invaded the streets of La Roche-sur-Yon to support the fight against breast cancerThe participants, dressed in pink, cover 5 km by walking or running. All without a time or ranking, in a friendly and supportive atmosphereThe event aims to raise awareness about screening and funds for breast cancer research.
In 2025, the Joséphine will be held on October 12, with registration starting at the end of August. For several years, the communes of the Pays des Achards also organize pink races and walks the week before the Joséphine in La Roche-sur-Yon.
Gourmet hikes in the Pays des Achards
Imagine a hike where every break is a gourmet excuse to treat yourself… That’s exactly the concept of gourmet hikes in the Pays des Achards In Vendée! Here, there's no time or performance. Just the chance to walk, taste, and enjoy the Vendée landscapes.
Along the way, several gourmet breaks await you: prefou, mogettes, and even a glass of local wine (in moderation). Each stop is an invitation to discover the flavors of our land.
These friendly hikes are accessible to all, young and old, sporty or gourmet (or both!). It's the perfect opportunity to combine the pleasure of walking with the pleasure of the taste buds, all in a festive and warm atmosphere. So, are you ready to combine effort and comfort?
Where to train in Pays des Achards in Vendée?
The Pays des Achards in Vendée is a true paradise for outdoor sports enthusiastsWhether you are passionate about running, cycling or hiking, our region offers a multitude of trails suitable for all levels.
Here is a selection of the best spots to train and fully enjoy the surrounding nature.
Running spots for athletes
- Around Lake Jaunay This iconic site offers several running trails, including a complete 12km loop around the lake. The East (approximately 5km) and West (approximately 8km) loops offer shorter alternatives, ideal for a mix of activities.
- The trails of Beaulieu-sous-la-Roche : This town offers several hiking trails offering varied routes for running enthusiasts.
Cycling and mountain biking routes
- “Vendée Vélo” routes : Several routes allow you to explore the Pays des Achards by bike, crossing varied landscapes between bocage and coastline.
- Mountain bike trail around Lac du Jaunay : Marked trails are available for thrill seekers, ranging from beginner to expert levels.
Family outings in the Land of Achards
You want to share a family sporting moment? Several events in the Pays des Achards region of Vendée offer child-friendly courses! Some races feature children's distances. Other hikes and multi-sport challenges are accessible to the whole family. Check age requirements and registration details directly with the organizers or on the Tourist Office website.
![Course kids Beaulieu Winter Trail]()
Beaulieu Winter Trail Children's Race ![Course enfants Beaulieu Winter Trail]()
Beaulieu Winter Trail Children's Race
Our practical advice for sporting events in Vendée
Some recommendations for enjoying sporting events
To fully experience a sporting event, some practical advice may prove useful:
- Prepare yourself physically : A good warm-up before exercise and stretching afterward helps prevent injuries.
- Adopt the right equipment : Suitable shoes, breathable clothing and a water bottle are your best allies.
- Remember to register in advance : Some events sell out quickly, so don't delay!
