Trail de Fort Boyard is a trail-running event held on the island of Oléron in Charente-Maritime, located on France’s Atlantic coast. The event is centered around Saint-Georges-d’Oléron and Boyardville, offering three distinct running distances: 10 km, 19 km, and 28 km. These distances are playfully named to reflect the challenge: la Course Pour Tous for the 10 km, la Course des Costauds for the 19 km, and la Course des Super Costauds for the 28 km.
The courses traverse seaside terrain, forest trails, and sandy stretches, providing an authentic island trail experience rather than a road run with scenery. The longest race features modest climbing, with approximately 150 meters of elevation gain over its 28 km. Additionally, an 8 km walk, la Belle Balade, is available for those who wish to enjoy the setting without the competitive aspect. The event embraces its connection to Fort Boyard through Père Fouras, the iconic bearded character associated with the famous sea fort situated just off the island.