My lovely spouse chose Vannes as the ideal location for my first marathon. It had all the right markers for a spectacular race. A beautiful location, an interesting ... almost exotic route (at least for a Canadian), and a relatively small number of runners. Vannes did not disappoint.

I had the additional honour of receiving an award from the village Arcal, a beautiful spot along the route with a VERY enthusiastic bunch of spectators, for having traveled the furthest to run the race. Truly unique.

All in all, this was an amazing experience and an excellent, well organized event. Highly recommended.

The 2003 Marathon de Vannes turned into an eco-challenge with wind, heavy rain and cold temps during the last half of the marathon. If you like varied running surfaces, then this is your race. Dirt farm roads, walking trails, cobblestones, brick and asphalt awaits the adventurous runner. Despite almost 3,000 runners, this race has a small-town feel to it. Where else could you get hard cider, raw oysters and grilled sausages at the water stops?? This is a great destination race. Vannes is lovely with its half-timbered buildings and seafaring tradition. Very picturesque with the race starting outside the fortified walls of the town. The organizers and volunteers really care about making this race first rate. Splurge and stay at the Hotel Villa Kerasy, and for amazing seafood, eat at the Cafe Mingus. You won't forget this race.