Course Description - Marathon des Alpes Maritimes Nice-Cannes
The Marathon des Alpes-Maritimes Nice–Cannes offers one of the most breathtaking routes in world marathon running — a point-to-point seaside journey along France’s glittering Côte d’Azur. Covering 42.195 km from Nice to Cannes, it combines fast, mostly flat terrain with postcard-worthy scenery, creating a perfect balance between performance and pleasure.
Start: Promenade des Anglais, Nice
Runners set off at 8:00 a.m. from the famous Promenade des Anglais, framed by palm trees and the Mediterranean Sea. The opening kilometres provide a gentle, flat introduction along the city’s waterfront before crossing into Saint-Laurent-du-Var, where crowds line the streets to cheer on the passing stream of athletes.
Through the Riviera’s Coastal Towns
From Nice, the route hugs the coastline, winding through a string of charming seaside towns:
Saint-Laurent-du-Var (~km 8.7) – First relay exchange, lively support from local residents.
Cagnes-sur-Mer (~km 11.7) – Long, straight coastal stretch ideal for rhythm running.
Villeneuve-Loubet & Marina Baie des Anges (~km 16.8) – Runners pass the iconic white pyramid-shaped marina buildings, one of the Riviera’s landmarks.
Antibes & Juan-les-Pins (~km 25.3) – Mid-race section offering a blend of sea views and shaded residential roads. The course undulates slightly here, adding variety without major climbs.
Vallauris Golfe-Juan (~km 36.1) – The course begins its final push, with the Mediterranean glimmering to the left and Cannes drawing closer.
Finish: Boulevard de la Croisette, Cannes
The marathon concludes dramatically along Boulevard de la Croisette, finishing near the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, home of the Cannes Film Festival. Spectators, music, and the sea breeze create an unforgettable final kilometre.
Profile & Conditions
Total elevation gain: approx. 173 m – mostly gentle, rolling sections; ideal for consistent pacing.
Surface: 100% paved road.
Scenery: About 95% of the route runs directly beside the sea, offering constant coastal views framed by palm trees and distant Alpine hills.
Aid stations: Every 5 km from km 5 onward, with water, energy drinks, and fruit.
Cut-off: 6 hours for marathon finishers.
Overall Character
The Nice–Cannes course is fast, flat, and stunningly scenic, making it ideal for personal bests, first-time marathoners, or runners simply seeking a memorable Riviera experience. With the blue Mediterranean on one side and the soft golden light of southern France, it’s often described as “42 km of pure happiness between sea and mountains.”
