Where to run in La Rochelle?

Distance: 7 km loop

A run around Les Minimes

From the Michel-Crépeau media library, head toward the Mandela footbridge, leaving the two towers behind you. During your warm-up, enjoy the breathtaking view over the entire bay. Once you reach the end of the footbridge, you’ll have to turn around, but no worries, there’s so much to take in as boats come and go.

Continue along the Port des Minimes, one of the largest marinas in Europe, and then head toward Minimes Beach. If you need a drink, there’s a water fountain at the beach. A quick break, and off you go again, running along the coastal path. At the point, take a moment to read about the Lighthouse of the End of the World, standing on its stilts offshore.

Keep running toward the departmental council building, where you’ll veer off toward the university campus. You’re now on sidewalks and arriving at the Lac de la Sole, which you can circle around. Head in the direction of the Méga CGR cinema and make your way back to the Espace Encan. Follow the old fish docks, and you’ll end up back at your starting point.

Ideal for: a seaside run with a view

Round-trip distance: 9 km

Les Minimes - Aytré: the two-beach

We suggest lacing up your running shoes at Minimes Beach and taking the path that runs along the coastline. If the weather is clear, you might spot Fort Boyard rising offshore near the Aix Island.

Head toward Plage du Roux, located just behind the departmental council building. This small, unguarded beach is a popular spot for locals. Be aware that in summer, the path is busy with walkers, so you might have to weave your way through. Don’t forget to hydrate at the water fountains, there won’t be any more until you reach Aytré Beach.

The coastal path is closed due to erosion, so you’ll need to detour via the bike path, which will lead you to the Aytré sports complex. Follow the bike signs and you’ll reach the oyster huts, and just beyond them, Aytré Beach. Swimming is not allowed here, so you’ll have to head back to Minimes Beach if you want to take a dip at the finish.

Ideal for: a slightly longer coastal run

Round-trip distance: 15 km from the Rompsay Bridge to Dompierre-sur-Mer

The Rompsay Canal: the shaded run

If you prefer shaded paths, we suggest a run along the Rompsay Canal. You can start near the Rompsay Bridge, across from the Pierre-Doriole high school. From there, head toward Périgny, Chagnolet, or Dompierre-sur-Mer, depending on how you’re feeling. You can’t go wrong, it’s a straight path all the way! To break up the monotony, you can take the trail on the opposite bank for the return. Be careful, though, if it’s rained recently, the path can get muddy.

Ideal for: a cool and peaceful run

Round-trip distance: 10 km

Châtelaillon-Plage–Les Boucholeurs: seaside and panoramic

How about heading out to the nearby seaside resort for another refreshing coastal run? Châtelaillon-Plage offers a comfortable playground for runners, with a route stretching about ten kilometers. Park at the Sapinière lot, on the edge of Angoulins. In the morning or evening, it’s a great spot to recharge, with views over the bay and the Île d’Aix in the background.

Follow the seafront past the famous casino all the way to the sailing club. In winter, the path is lit, offering real safety for runners. Continue toward the small port of Les Boucholeurs, and at the Mirko restaurant, head up the lane. The incline is steep and will take some effort, but once at the top by the thalassotherapy center, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view over the Pertuis d’Antioche. Catch your breath, then stretch out your stride back toward the starting point.

Ideal for: a dynamic route with wide-open views

Distance: 1.5 km loop, adjustable.

La Moulinette park in Périgny

A green space popular with joggers, the park offers a soft and accessible loop for easy training in the shade of the trees, with flat areas ideal for interval sessions or fitness workouts.

Ideal for: beginners or targeted training

Distance: loops of 3 to 5 km possible.

Lagord sports activity park – Atlantech

The Atlantech park offers wide sidewalks, bike lanes, and landscaped paths around the sustainable district. It’s an interesting route for those looking to combine running with a modern urban environment.

Ideal for: running on stable terrain / accessible by bus and bike.

Distance: adjustable routes from 4 to 10 km.

The Vallée du Curé: running in nature

Located between Saint-Médard-d’Aunis and Dompierre, the Vallée du Curé offers marked trails through meadows and wetlands, far from busy roads. A great option for runners who enjoy nature without heading to the coast.

Ideal for: light trail running / nature runs.

Distance: loops of 2 to 4 km.

The Bois des Coureilles in Périgny

Located near the town center and the Coureilles Park, this small woodland offers shaded paths perfect for a morning or evening run.

Ideal for: nature runs / summer shade.

Distance: 5 to 12 km.

Saint-Xandre – Puilboreau: between town and countryside

A route that combines quiet back roads and farm tracks around Saint-Xandre, Puilboreau, and even as far as Dompierre for the more ambitious.

Ideal for: long runs / varied training.

There’s plenty to enjoy around here!

On your marks... get set, go!

• La Rochelle Marathon Serge Vigot
• La Rochelle Half Marathon
• La Sarabande des Filles de La Rochelle
• Châtelaillon-Plage Triathlon
• Châtelaillon-Plage Ekiden
• Heart Routes of Nieul-sur-Mer
• Apple Relay of Dompierre-sur-Mer
• Marsilly Strides
• Saint-Xandre Strides
• 10 km of the Bay of Port-Neuf
• La Rochelle Urban Trail
• Canal Trail