Trail des Châteaux

The Trail des Châteaux begins in Sion, Switzerland’s Valais canton, sending runners on castle-themed trails in early December. The race series offers two options: a technical 32 km course with approximately 1700 m of climbing for experienced trail runners, and a more accessible 14 km route for those seeking a shorter, sharper introduction to the event’s trail atmosphere. The routes traverse Sion, Savièse, Arbaz, and Grimisuat, connecting Valaisian castles, medieval fortresses, mountain paths, natural terrain, and occasionally snow-covered valleys. The longer race links the region’s castles and is part of the UTMB Index, while the shorter Trail des Châtelets is presented as fast and challenging rather than simply easy. The castle theme is integral, with the race embracing a "royal race" concept and encouraging runners to navigate the course like royalty.