Go against the flow of the GR65 to arrive at Puy-en-Velay. This is the objective of the participants who take this legendary route, known worldwide. Different events, races or hikes allow you to experience your Spiritrail quest on the way to Saint-Jacques-of Compostela. See you from June 12 to 14, 2026 for this exceptional event between Gévaudan and Velay!
From June 12th to 14th, it's the Trail event of Saint-Jacques by UTMB from Gévaudan to the City of Puy-en-Velay which promises to break all records with 7100 registered to date.
The whole world is meeting in Velay
Fifty-five countries will be represented, with some of the largest delegations being Belgium, Great Britain, Switzerland, Spain, and Germany. Among the delegations traveling further afield are six representatives from Brazil, six from Argentina, and two each from Japan and South Africa.
The kick-off for this Trail weekend will take place in Saugues on Friday, June 12 at 20 p.m. for ultra-trail runners, with the winner expected on Saturday late morning in Puy-en-Velay.
New arrival village!
A unique feature of the 2026 edition is that the finish line will be located in the heart of the Henri Vinay Garden, which will become the central hub of the race, housing the village and various activities. The event generates significant economic benefits for the region, with most accommodations booked months in advance. Several exhibitors will be located in the Henri Vinay Garden from Friday at noon until Sunday at 6 p.m.
There will notably be an information chalet with all the information about the city and all the information about the races (bib collection, times, course, refreshments, shuttles…).
The Trail of Saint-Jacques by UTMB,
an event steeped in history
Spiritual, initiatory, cultural, sporting... Today, the town of Puy-en-Velay is inseparable from the notion of pilgrimage on the paths of Saint-Jacques-of Compostela. It represents the historic and essential starting point for beginning your journey towards Gallice.
The Trail of Saint-Jacques by UTMB allows you to discover the Le Puy-en-Velay – Domaine du Sauvage section by crossing the Monts du Velay and the Gorges de l'Allier. A historic route that has become a GR, which for centuries has provided all the serenity necessary for pilgrims. The Trail of Saint-Jacques offers runners the opportunity to experience a “spiritrail quest”.
UTMB® World Series
Bringing together trail enthusiasts of all levels and the biggest sports stars on the best events on the planet, which take place in exceptional locations, the UTMB World Series circuit gives all runners the opportunity to live the UTMB experience close to home.
42 events are spread across Asia, Oceania, Europe, Africa and America.
Accessible to as many people as possible thanks to numerous distances and numerous terrain topologies, the Trail du Saint-Jacques by UTMB is not quite a trail like the others.
Treading the mythical path against the flow of pilgrims, tasting the legendary hospitality of a territory, to end in apotheosis at nightfall at the foot of the Notre-Dame cathedral of Puy-en-Velay, is for sure a memorable experience!
The list of tests
FROM THE SAINT-JACQUES TRAIL
- ULTRA TRAIL DU SAINT-JACQUES – 139KM
- GRAND TRAIL DU SAINT-JACQUES – 86KM
- MARATRAIL DU SAINT-JACQUES – 55KM
- LES CHIBOTTES – 28KM
- THE 12 OF DOLAIZON – 12KM
- THE HIKING – 28KM
Each timed event offers finishers UTMB Running Stones! Choose your route on this initiatory event punctuated by signs and encounters, challenges and joy!
To find out everything about the different races, the routes, routes and elevation differences, supplies and the general organization of this great event, do not hesitate to consult the Trail du Saint-Jacques by UTMB.
Practical
Where can I collect my bib?
Bib collection takes place on the esplanade of the Crozatier museum in the Henri Vinay garden, in Puy-en-Velay.
Are there shuttles to the start?
The shuttle service is included in your race registration. For logistical and environmental reasons, we strongly encourage you to use this service and not to use your own vehicle. The shuttle departs from the Cluny parking lot, Boulevard de Cluny in Le Puy-en-Velay.
Double-check the departure time according to your race!
What equipment should I bring?
The full list of required equipment is available here.
What services after the race?
When you arrive at Puy-en-Velay, you will be able to find numerous post-race services:
- Meals (to be reserved until May 1st)
- Physiotherapists
- Showers
For information, showers and weight bags can be found at the Quincieu gymnasium (less than one km from the finish)
Themes
