The Grand Raid des Pyrénées (GRP) is one of France’s most iconic ultra-trails, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and impressive physical challenges. Taking place in the Pyrenees, this race attracts hundreds of trail runners, both amateurs and professionals, each year who come to test their limits on technical and demanding trails. Whether you’re a trail enthusiast looking for a new adventure or a runner wanting to discover the mountains, the GRP is an unmissable experience.
A trail in the heart of the Pyrenees
The Grand Raid des Pyrénées takes place in one of the most spectacular mountain ranges in Europe. Located in the southwest of France, the GRP offers several courses, adapted to different levels, ranging from "short" races of 40 km to the main event, the 160 km ultra with 10,000 meters of elevation gain.
A journey through magnificent landscapes
The GRP allows runners to cross varied and impressive landscapes, from dense forests to mountain ridges, passing through isolated valleys and high-altitude lakes. The routes include sections on technical trails, high-altitude passages with magnificent panoramas, notably on the Pic du Midi , the highest point offering an exceptional view of the entire Pyrenees mountain range.
Tip: If you're new to long distances, opt for shorter courses, such as the Tour des Lacs (80 km), before embarking on the ultra. The elevation gain is still impressive, but you'll enjoy a total immersion in nature without the pressure of very long distances.
The different routes of the Grand Raid des Pyrénées
The Grand Raid des Pyrénées offers several race formats, suitable for all levels of preparation and endurance. Whether you are new to ultra-trail or already have experience, there is a course that suits you.
Ultra (160 km – 10,000 m D+)
The GRP Ultra course is one of the longest and most demanding. With its 160 km and 10,000 meters of elevation gain, it is a real test of endurance and mental strength. The runners face steep climbs, technical descents, and cross spectacular landscapes. The passage through the Pic du Midi is one of the highlights of the race, with a breathtaking view of the Pyrenees mountain range.
Tip: Prepare yourself mentally for particularly difficult sections, such as the climb to the Pic du Midi. Focus on managing your effort efficiently and take short but regular breaks at the aid stations.
The tour of the lakes (80 km – 5000 m D+)
The Tour des Lacs is an ideal route for those who want to get started in ultra-trail running without taking on the 160 km event. With its 80 km and 5,000 metres of elevation gain, this race offers a summary of the best the Pyrenees have to offer: technical passages, steep climbs, and breathtaking landscapes around high mountain lakes.
Tip: If you are aiming for this course, be sure to include altitude training in your preparation. Managing elevation and acclimatizing to altitude are keys to successfully completing this race.
The tour of the cirques (120 km – 7000 m D+)
The Tour des Cirques is another popular GRP format, offering an intermediate event between the Ultra and the Tour des Lacs. This 120km course with 7,000 metres of elevation gain crosses some of the most beautiful cirques in the Pyrenees, such as the Cirque de Gavarnie , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a very technical course, but rewards riders with panoramas of rare beauty.
Tip: For this race, work on your downhill technique. Technical descents in cirques can be difficult to manage, especially after several hours of racing.
Logistics and organization
Participating in the Grand Raid des Pyrénées requires careful logistical preparation. Here are some key aspects not to be overlooked to succeed in this legendary race.
Essential equipment
As with any mountain trail race, equipment is essential to tackle the sometimes extreme conditions of the Pyrenees. In addition to trail shoes suitable for technical terrain, it is essential to plan for:
- Waterproof jacket : Mountain weather can be unpredictable. You may encounter thunderstorms or cool temperatures, especially at night.
- Trail running bag with water bladder : Hydration management is crucial, especially over long distances.
- Energy gels and bars : Although refreshments are available along the course, it is important to have snacks with you to avoid feeling tired.
- Headlamp : If you are participating in the Ultra or Tour des Cirques, you will spend several hours running at night.
Tip: Test your gear ahead of time to make sure it’s comfortable for long distances. Don’t leave anything to chance, especially when it comes to shoes and backpack.
Physical and mental preparation
The Grand Raid des Pyrénées is a demanding race that requires intense physical preparation, but also mental preparation. Here are some points to consider to optimize your preparation:
- Uphill and Downhill Workouts : Elevation is a central element of this race. Incorporate specific sessions of technical hills and descents into your training program.
- Long outings : Get your body used to prolonged efforts. Long outings in the mountains are essential to build your endurance.
- Muscle strengthening : Don't neglect muscle strengthening, especially in the legs and core, to better support repeated ascents and descents.
Tip: Practice meditation or visualization exercises to mentally prepare yourself to face moments of fatigue and doubt. Mental management is as important as physical preparation in this type of race.
Live the GRP adventure: A unique experience
Participating in the Grand Raid des Pyrénées is, above all, living a unique adventure, in the heart of nature, in an exceptional setting. The friendly atmosphere and the warm welcome from the organizers and volunteers add a human dimension to this extraordinary sporting event.
A human and collective experience
The GRP is an event where the community spirit is palpable. The encouragement of volunteers, spectators and other runners is essential to keep morale up during the race. The breathtaking landscapes, the moments of surpassing oneself and the solidarity between runners make this adventure unforgettable.
Tip: Attend pre-race briefings and chat with other participants. The tips and experiences shared are often very helpful, especially if it’s your first time participating.
Enjoy the beauty of the Pyrenees
In addition to the sporting aspect, the Grand Raid des Pyrénées is also a great opportunity to discover the wild and unspoiled beauty of the Pyrenees. Whether you are on the ridges or in the valleys, the landscapes offered by this region are breathtaking and provide extra motivation to cross the finish line.
Tip: Take time to admire the views. Even though the competition is tough, don't forget to enjoy the incredible views along the way.
The Grand Raid des Pyrénées, a challenge to take up
The Grand Raid des Pyrénées is more than a race, it is a personal challenge, a human adventure and an immersion in magnificent landscapes. Whether you are an experienced runner or you want to get started in the world of ultra-trail, the GRP offers you a unique opportunity to push your limits. With good physical and mental preparation, and respecting your abilities, you will live an unforgettable experience in the heart of the mountains.
If the Grand Raid des Pyrénées has seduced you with its majestic landscapes and technical challenges, you will certainly be interested in other emblematic trails in France. Explore our guide to the most beautiful trails in France and our guide to the most challenging trails , discover unforgettable adventures through the most beautiful regions of the country, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned trail runner.
