Marathon du Medoc
12 September 2009
The Marathon du Medoc is not just an ordinary Marathon for many reasons. Set in the stunning Bordeaux region of France (rated best Wine Travel Destination in the World) it meanders through ancient villages, vibrant vineyards and along gravel tracks. If this were not enough you get to run past some of the most famous Wine makers in the region (if not the world). There would not be many wine drinkers anywhere in the world who have not heard of Chateau Lafite Rothschild or Chateau Mouton Rothschild and these are just two of the 59 vineyards along the way.
Almost 90% of the participants wear fancy dress (it is not unusual to be overtaken by groups of running clowns, escaped convicts or male ballerinas). The aid stations allow for wine and cheese tasting as well as the more customary forms of Marathon fare and most of the prizes are in Wine.
Those not running are catered for too, with various shows and entertainment in the harbour area along the quays. The Marathon village near the wine-culture-centre “Maison du Vin” is also open the whole day and offers entertainment and regional specialities. In the evening the village of Pauillac puts on a Fireworks display to cap off a memorable day.
Put simply, this is one of the world's great parties with a Marathon thrown in for good measure.
Tour Inclusions:
Return airfares ex Johannesburg
5 nights accommodation in a beautifully restored Guest House built in 1860.
Breakfasts daily
A welcome dinner on night of arrival (with wine of course!)
Return airport / guest house transfers
Half day sightseeing in Cognac with boat trip and lunch included
Pre-race Pasta Party in 500 year old Chateaux
Transfers for the Pasta Party
Return transfers on race day
Commemorative race item per person
Race inclusions:
Medal
T-shirt
Bottle of wine from the region with race label
Wine, wine and more wine
Food to compliment the wine - oysters, ham, cheese and so forth.
