64KM AND 4’700M+

 

In 2027, the MXALPS changes direction and introduces a brand‑new course that highlights what the Riviera Alps do best: climbing, climbing… and, in case you were missing any, even more climbing.

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From Montreux’s Market Square, the stage is set. The route heads toward the Rochers de Naye for a warm‑up that is “light” in name only. After flirting with cliffs and dizzying panoramas, you’ll reach the Sautodoz couloir before diving down the paragliding trail toward the Villeneuve valleys, at the foot of the impressive Malatraix ridges.

For regulars of the Montreux Trail Festival, the sensation will be strange: this emblematic summit, usually conquered from above, will this time be admired from its depths. But don’t worry — the discomfort won’t last long. Very quickly, the trail rears up again toward the Pas de l’Âne, nearly 2,000 metres above sea level. As for the altitude of the start, we’ve chosen to keep it secret… to preserve your morale.

The magnificent traverse between Malatraix and the Pertuis d’Aveneyre then leads to the Col de Chaude, followed by the unavoidable Rochers de Naye. Yes, them again. Did you really think you’d escape? And because a trail wouldn’t be complete without a good dose of quad‑burning, we’ve also included the famous Grottes de Naye stairs. Your legs will be thrilled.

This is where the true unknown begins. For the first time, the course ventures into the land of the Armaillis and the Gruyère region, offering a completely different atmosphere and new horizons to explore. But fear not: Lake Geneva will never be far away, especially during the spectacular passage at the Col de Pierra‑Perchia — a balcony suspended between sky and lake.

The following section becomes more runnable, beneath the elegant Verraux chain and the Dent de Jaman, finally offering a few kilometres where you might think about something other than elevation gain. Almost.

To conclude this adventure, the cherry on top awaits in the Gorges du Chauderon. Because after 64 kilometres and 4,700 metres of climbing, it would have been a shame to finish without them. Demanding, spectacular, and resolutely alpine, this new course fits perfectly within the Montreux Trail Festival tradition: making you suffer just enough to ensure you already want to come back next year.

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