Trail des Gaulois
Photo: Sequajectrof / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0) / Source (opens in a new tab)

Charmes-sur-Rhône

Trail des Gaulois

Sunday, 18 October 2026

Trail des Gaulois 17K

17km D+ 877m

Trail des Gaulois 10K

10km D+ 433m

See the gear
Trail des Gaulois 2026 registration: dates not announced yetSee recommended gear

Race data

Terrain

Trail

Difficulty

Intermediate

Distance

2 modalities

Visit official website(opens in a new tab)

  • Trail des Gaulois 17K

    Distance
    17 km
    Elevation Gain
    D+ 877m
    Max Time
    -

  • Trail des Gaulois 10K

    Distance
    10 km
    Elevation Gain
    D+ 433m
    Max Time
    -
Will your watch battery last the ~4 h of Trail des Gaulois?Worked out for the longest course (17 km). See which watches reach the finish with GPS on and which die on the way.Check my watch

Your checklist for Trail des Gaulois

What you need, category by category, with our #1 pick for this race. Tick what you already have.

0 of 7 ready

  1. GPS watch

    Garmin Forerunner 570

    Full-color topo maps, a first for the Forerunner line

    Downside: Shorter battery life than a Forerunner 965 with maps on

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  2. Gear

    Test shoes and pack on long training runs before race day

    Nike Ultrafly

    ZoomX foam: exceptional energy return inherited from the Vaporfly

    Downside: High price (190 EUR)

    View on Amazon →(se abre en una pestaña nueva)
    See 7 alternatives Which shoe suits you best? Shoe finder

  3. Nutrition

    Take a gel every 30-45 minutes from the start

    Maurten Gel 100

    Tecnología de hidrogel: excelente tolerancia gástrica

    Downside: Precio elevado respecto a otros geles

    View on Amazon →(se abre en una pestaña nueva)
    See 7 alternatives

  4. Sun Protection

    Sweat-resistant SPF 50 before the start

    Sun Bum Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 30

    Stick format easy to apply mid-race

    Downside: SPF 30 may fall short at extreme altitude

    View on Amazon →(se abre en una pestaña nueva)
    See 7 alternatives

  5. Body Care

    Anti-chafe balm on feet, armpits and groin before the start

    BodyGlide Original Anti-Chafe Balm

    Easy-to-apply stick format, even with sweaty hands

    Downside: Higher price than traditional petroleum jelly

    View on Amazon →(se abre en una pestaña nueva)
    See 7 alternatives

  6. Accommodation

    Look for a place within 15 minutes of the start

    SleepDreamz Tapones de Silicona Moldeable 32dB

    32 dB noise reduction

    Downside: Don't block noise completely

    View on Amazon →(se abre en una pestaña nueva)
    See 3 alternatives

  7. Car Rental

    Pick up the car at the airport on arrival

    DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud Country Plus

    View on Amazon →(se abre en una pestaña nueva)
    See 3 alternatives

  8. Trip logistics

    Registration, travel and insurance: what you should have sorted before race day.

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2 weeks to Trail des Gaulois: get your kit ready

Buying guides with the best value for money, picked for this kind of terrain.

Swipe to see all 4 comparisons

Historical weather

What to wear at 15 °C: guide and kit →

Typical weather for the race date (10-year average)

Temperature

11°C – 20°C

Average 15°C

Rain

20%

3.6 mm avg

Wind

19 km/h

max. average

Sunshine hours

8h

daily average

Trail des Gaulois: Ardèche hills by the Rhône

The Trail des Gaulois has an unusual start: a fruit and vegetable farm in Charmes-sur-Rhône, on the Ardèche bank of the Rhône opposite Valence. From there the courses head into the hills of Toulaud and Gilhac-et-Bruzac on trails that change every year.

Two distances

  • Trail des Gaulois 17 km: 877 m D+, for experienced runners
  • Trail des Gaulois 10 km: 433 m D+, more accessible
  • Kids’ races of 1 km (ages 8-11) and 2 km (ages 12-15)

Short but intense

More than 50 m of climbing per kilometre on the 17 km: short, steep climbs, fast descents and paths through oak and chestnut woods. Mid-October weather is usually mild, ideal for a fitness test before winter.

Ardèche beyond the race

Visit Valence, the Saint-Péray and Cornas vineyards or the Ardèche gorges further south. More events among the races in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes and in the race planner.

360Complete Pack

Trail des Gaulois 2026 registration

Registration

Places are limited on every distance: secure your bib on the official website before it sells out.

Browse all registration

Tips

  • •Check deadlines and prices for each distance on the official website
  • •France requires an FFA licence or the online PPS (Parcours Prévention Santé) for non-members
  • •Keep your confirmation: it is checked at bib pick-up

Where to stay for Trail des Gaulois

Accommodation

Book close to the start in Charmes-sur-Rhône: local accommodation fills up fast on race weekend.

Gritin Antifaz de Seda Natural

Gritin

Gritin Antifaz de Seda Natural

100% natural silk sleep mask with pure cotton filling. Fully blocks light, adjustable strap and skin-friendly fabric. Includes ear plugs. Perfect for camping, mountain huts or shared rooms.

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BAGAIL Toalla de Microfibra Compacta

BAGAIL

BAGAIL Toalla de Microfibra Compacta

Quick-drying microfibre towel, super absorbent and ultra-compact. Includes breathable EVA zippered case. Ideal for campsite showers, hotel pools or post-race use.

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The North Face Base Camp Duffel M

The North Face

The North Face Base Camp Duffel M

Iconic, rugged travel duffel with hydrophobic TPE-coated fabric built to survive rough handling in race-organisation vans and aid stations. Reinforced wraparound haul handles and a storm flap that shields the main zipper from water and dust.

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Tips

  • •Look for a place within 15 minutes of the start
  • •Earplugs and eye mask if the start is before dawn
  • •Microfibre towel and a duffel bag to keep your kit organised

Gear for Trail des Gaulois

Gear

17 km and almost 900 m D+ of short climbs and new trails: grippy trail shoes, a light vest or belt with one flask and a windproof if it turns cool.

Inov-8 Mudclaw G 260

Inov-8

Inov-8 Mudclaw G 260

A pure mud specialist: 8 mm lugs and a Graphene Grip outsole for extreme traction on soft ground, wet grass and muddy climbs. The choice of fell-running and cross-country racers.

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Hoka Speedgoat 7

Hoka

Hoka Speedgoat 7

The best-selling trail shoe in the US and an absolute ultra-trail classic. Max Hoka cushioning, a Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5 mm lugs for grip in mud and technical terrain, and a snug Matryx upper. Built to eat up kilometres without punishing your legs in long races.

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Salomon Active Skin 8

Salomon

Salomon Active Skin 8

Salomon's entry-level hydration vest: 8-litre capacity, body-hugging Sensifit-style fit and two 500 ml soft flasks included. Simpler than the ADV Skin (fewer pockets, fixed webbing instead of elastic), but with the same non-bouncing pattern. Built for training and mid-distance races without extensive mandatory gear.

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Petzl Actik Core

Petzl

Petzl Actik Core

Frontal recargable de 600 lúmenes con batería Core incluida. Compatible con pilas AAA. Modo rojo para preservar la visión nocturna. Ideal para ultras con tramos nocturnos.

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Salomon Bonatti WP

Salomon

Salomon Bonatti WP

Chaqueta cortavientos impermeable ultraligera (135 g). Costuras selladas, capucha ajustable y ventilación trasera. Se pliega en su propio bolsillo.

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Salomon Cross Warm Glove

Salomon

Salomon Cross Warm Glove

Guantes térmicos de running con palma antideslizante y puntas táctiles. Ligeros, cálidos y compatibles con bastones.

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Buff Thermonet

Buff

Buff Thermonet

Buff tubular térmico con tecnología Primaloft. Retiene el calor corporal, ultraligero y polivalente: gorro, braga, cinta. Ideal para alta montaña.

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Browse all gear

Tips

  • •Test shoes and pack on long training runs before race day
  • •Check the mandatory gear list in the race rules
  • •Always carry a waterproof jacket in autumn and winter
Nike Ultrafly

Which shoes for Trail des Gaulois?

Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather

→
Garmin Forerunner 570

Which GPS watch for Trail des Gaulois?

Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time

→
🧥

Best Neck Gaiter (Buff) for Trail Running 2026: Comparison & Buying Guide

Comparison of the best neck gaiters for trail running in 2026: Buff Original, Midweight, Windproof, DryFlx, CoolNet UV+, Thermonet, HANKER and Salomon Merino. Which to pick based on sun, wind, cold or budget.

→
🧥

Best Thermal Base Layer for Trail Running 2026: Comparison & Buying Guide

The best thermal base layers for trail running in 2026: Odlo Active Warm Eco, Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis, Craft Pro Hypervent, Under Armour ColdGear, Salomon Agile LS Tee and Odlo I-Thermic. Which to pick based on cold, sweat management, merino wool, compression or built-in wind protection.

→
🧥

Best Trail Running Gaiters 2026: 3-Way Comparison

Comparing the 3 best trail running gaiters in 2026: Salomon Trail Gaiters High, Salomon Trail Gaiters Low and TRIWONDER waterproof gaiters. Which to pick by terrain and budget.

→

Nutrition for Trail des Gaulois

Nutrition

Plan 60-90 g of carbs per hour on long sections and replace salts even when it is cool.

GU Energy Gel Original

GU

GU Energy Gel Original

Gel energético con 100 calorías y 21g de carbohidratos por sobre. Mezcla de maltodextrina y fructosa para absorción óptima. Incluye aminoácidos y electrolitos. El gel más usado en ultratrails de todo el mundo.

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SiS GO Isotonic Energy Gel

Science in Sport

SiS GO Isotonic Energy Gel

Gel isotónico que no necesita agua para su consumo. 22g de carbohidratos por sobre. Formulación ligera y fácil de digerir durante el ejercicio intenso. Muy popular en ciclismo y trail running.

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226ERS Isotonic Drink

226ERS

226ERS Isotonic Drink

Bebida isotónica en polvo de la marca española 226ERS. Aporta carbohidratos, electrolitos y minerales para mantener la hidratación durante el ejercicio. Fórmula con amilopectina para absorción rápida sin molestias digestivas.

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PowerBar Energize Original

PowerBar

PowerBar Energize Original

Barrita energética con 45g de carbohidratos por unidad. Mezcla de carbohidratos de absorción rápida y lenta para energía sostenida. Textura masticable, ideal para secciones de subida donde puedes comer con calma.

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226ERS Salts Electrolytes

226ERS

226ERS Salts Electrolytes

Mineral salt capsules with 141 mg of sodium, plus potassium, magnesium, calcium and chloride. A gentle dose for moderate sweating or to top up gels and drinks that already contain sodium. Zero calories, gluten-free and vegan.

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Miel en Sticks Propol-mel

Propol-mel

Miel en Sticks Propol-mel

Single-dose pure polyfloral honey sticks. Open with your teeth and take like a liquid gel, but 100% natural. Fast carbohydrate absorption with no artificial ingredients. Compact format ideal for carrying in your vest.

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226ERS Recovery Drink

226ERS

226ERS Recovery Drink

Muscle recovery shake from Spanish brand 226ERS. Formula with whey protein, amylopectin, amino acids (including glutamine and BCAAs) and minerals. Carb-to-protein ratio optimised for the post-exercise window. Good taste and digestive tolerance.

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Tips

  • •Take a gel every 30-45 minutes from the start
  • •Electrolytes in every bottle: you sweat even in the cold
  • •Recovery drink within 30 minutes of finishing

Getting to Charmes-sur-Rhône

Transport

Charmes-sur-Rhône is 10 minutes from Valence. Fly to Lyon-Saint Exupéry and hire a car (1 h 15) or take the TGV to Valence.

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Tips

  • •Compare flight + car with driving
  • •Arrive the day before to collect your bib calmly

Car hire for Trail des Gaulois

Car Rental

Public transport to Charmes-sur-Rhône is limited: a hire car gives you freedom for the start and the trip home.

DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud City

DRIVALIA

DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud City

Urban vehicle rental subscription, perfect for getting to races with good highway and conventional road access.

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Hertz - Alquiler de coches

Hertz

Hertz - Alquiler de coches

Car rental with one of the world's most recognised brands, with offices at airports and cities across Spain.

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Carla Car Rental - Reserva ahora, paga después

Carla

Carla Car Rental - Reserva ahora, paga después

Car rental comparison in over 180 countries with free cancellation. Book now and pay when you pick up the vehicle, no hidden fees or upfront card charges.

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Tips

  • •Pick up the car at the airport on arrival
  • •Book early: prices rise on race weekend

Sports insurance for Trail des Gaulois

Insurance

If you travel from abroad, bring your EHIC/GHIC and travel insurance covering mountain sports.

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Tips

  • •The FFA licence includes insurance; the PPS does not cover accidents
  • •Check your policy covers mountain rescue in France

Body care for Trail des Gaulois

Body Care

Mud, damp and long hours of effort: prevent chafing and blisters and look after recovery.

Compeed Ampollas Medianas Duplo

Compeed

Compeed Ampollas Medianas Duplo

Hydrocolloid blister plasters for medium blisters. Instant pain relief, protect the blister while it heals and stay in place for hours even with sweat. Pack of 10 individually wrapped plasters, ideal for carrying in a trail running vest.

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HANKER Braga de Cuello Térmica

HANKER

HANKER Braga de Cuello Térmica

Unisex thermal seamless neck gaiter in Soft Air Plus fabric (97% polyester). Seamless fit designed for trail running, cycling, motorcycling and outdoor sports. A budget alternative to Buff for moderate cold.

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UYN Run Arm Warmers

UYN

UYN Run Arm Warmers

Technical arm sleeves from Italian brand UYN, with premium engineered fabrics and a good quality-price balance in the mid-high range.

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Lurbel Desafío Four

Lurbel

Lurbel Desafío Four

Ankle-length competition socks with Regenactiv fabric and breathable mesh. Heel and toe reinforcements, flat seams and wrinkle-free fit. Spanish brand designed for trail running. Ultralight and quick-drying.

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Compressport Full Socks Recovery

Compressport

Compressport Full Socks Recovery

Full-length compression socks (foot to knee) designed specifically for post-exercise recovery. Graduated compression that improves venous return and reduces swelling. Breathable fabric with infrared fibres that improve microcirculation.

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TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller

TriggerPoint

TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller

Myofascial release roller with patented 3D GRID surface that mimics a therapist's hands. Hollow rigid core (holds up to 150kg) and multi-density EVA exterior. 33cm long, ideal for quads, IT band and calves after mountain races.

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Crocs Mellow Recovery Slide

Crocs

Crocs Mellow Recovery Slide

Recovery sandal with LiteRide foam, softer and with a slower rebound than traditional Croslite foam, designed so the foot sinks in on contact. Deep, cupped footbed that cradles the heel and arch. Lightweight, quick-drying and machine washable.

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Browse all body care

Tips

  • •Anti-chafe balm on feet, armpits and groin before the start
  • •Seamless technical socks and blister plasters in your pack
  • •Compression socks and a foam roller for recovery

Sun protection for Trail des Gaulois

Sun Protection

Even in autumn or winter, sun on the ridges and glare from sea or rock burn: protect face and lips.

ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water SPF 50+

ISDIN

ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water SPF 50+

Ultralight water-phase facial sunscreen with SPF 50+. Fluid texture that absorbs instantly with no greasy residue, ideal for applying during a race. Water and sweat resistant.

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d'Alba Air Fit Fresh Stick SPF 50+ PA++++

d'Alba

d'Alba Air Fit Fresh Stick SPF 50+ PA++++

Facial SPF 50+ PA++++ sun stick, 19 g, Korean skincare, vegan and fragrance-free. Dry, powdery finish, not sticky, doesn't sting the eyes when you sweat: comfortable for daily training and shorter races. The lightest and cheapest option in the comparison.

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KAPVOE Gafas Polarizadas 5 Lentes Intercambiables

KAPVOE

KAPVOE Gafas Polarizadas 5 Lentes Intercambiables

TR90-frame sports sunglasses with 5 interchangeable lenses (polarized, smoke, clear, low-light yellow and mirrored), designed to adapt protection to any race condition without buying multiple pairs. Lightweight with a secure grip for extended wear.

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Heliocare 360º Sport Transparent Stick SPF 50+

Cantabria Labs

Heliocare 360º Sport Transparent Stick SPF 50+

Transparent SPF 50+ sun stick, 25 g, with 360º protection (UVA, UVB, visible light and infrared). Goes on dry in seconds over face, ears, neck and bald scalp with no sticky hands and no white cast: the format built for reapplying at an aid station. High water and sweat resistance, from a Spanish pharmacy brand.

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Columbia Schooner Bank II Cachalot

Columbia

Columbia Schooner Bank II Cachalot

Legionnaire-style cap with neck flap, ideal for long-duration races with intense sun exposure. Covers the neck and ears, two of the areas most prone to sunburn in the mountains.

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Julbo

Julbo Aero

Sports sunglasses with a Reactiv photochromic lens that automatically adapts to changing light, an ultralight panoramic frame and the Air Link temple system for a secure, pressure-free fit. Built for high-mountain trail running, where light shifts constantly between forest, rock and open summits.

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Buff Venture Gorra 5 Panel

Buff

Buff Venture Gorra 5 Panel

Lightweight 5-panel cap with UPF 50+ protection, breathable fabric and comfortable fit. Ideal for summer trail running races where weight and ventilation are a priority.

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Tips

  • •Sweat-resistant SPF 50 before the start
  • •Lip balm: dry wind cracks lips
  • •Light sunglasses for exposed sections

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Trail des Gaulois 2026?
On Sunday 18 October 2026 in Charmes-sur-Rhône (Ardèche).
What distances are there?
17 km / 877 m D+ and 10 km / 433 m D+, plus 1 km and 2 km kids' races.
Where is the start?
At a farm, Mounier Fruits & Légumes, in the Quartier Sarzier of Charmes-sur-Rhône.

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