The Rotary Trail de Beaune begins and ends at La Montagnarde on the Montagne de Beaune, situated above the wine town of Beaune in Côte-d'Or. Organized by the Rotary Club of Beaune, it takes place at the very start of January, marking it as the first nature race of the year in the department. This event is a winter trail day, not a road race. An 8.5 km marked walk is held in the morning, followed by afternoon races of 8.5 km, 14.5 km, and 25 km. The short trail involves approximately 170 m of elevation gain, the middle race around 350 m, and the long race about 600 m. Consequently, even the shorter distances require more than basic flat-road fitness.
The courses traverse the vineyards surrounding Beaune and adjacent forests. Winter conditions like mud, cold, and uneven terrain contribute to the challenge. Recent participation numbers show the 8.5 km and 14.5 km races attracting a few hundred runners each, while the 25 km option appeals to a smaller field seeking a more demanding season opener. The event maintains a club and community atmosphere, with walkers, local trail runners, and those seeking a post-holiday reset sharing the same starting area. The race generates funds through Rotary initiatives, supporting causes such as paratriathlete Thibaut Rigaudeau and the establishment of a new Café Joyeux in Dijon.