32 KM AND 2’000M+

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If only one race were to remain, it would probably be this one. Over the years, the MXSKY has established itself as the great classic of the Montreux Trail Festival — the one that sells out long before race day, the one we recommend to anyone wanting to discover the spirit of the event without suffering too much (well… relatively), and the one that serves as a dress rehearsal for all the lucky runners preparing for the legendary “Course des Cinq 4000” in Zinal.

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From the very first kilometres, the tone is set. After crossing Montreux’s old town, things get serious with the infamous Pallens climb leading up to Sonzier (yes, we decided to spare you the Telegraph stairs — you’re welcome). A warm‑up of sorts, because the day’s true objective already looms on the horizon: the Rochers de Naye and their 2,000‑metre summit.

The ascent is demanding, sometimes unforgiving, but remember that by the time you reach the top — after only 13 kilometres — you will already have swallowed almost all the elevation gain of the race. Excellent news for some. Slightly worrying for others.

After admiring the exceptional panorama stretching from the Alps to the waters of Lake Geneva (we’ll take note of anyone who doesn’t), the course becomes more technical, with the famous Naye Stairs followed by the spectacular Bonaudon cirque. The terrain remains alpine, wild, and occasionally playful, before gradually softening toward the Col de Jaman.

Beneath the elegant silhouette of the Dent de Jaman, the course becomes more runnable, finally allowing you to pick up the pace again. But don’t be fooled — the mountain never fully says its last word.

The great reward comes with the long descent toward Montreux. A spectacular plunge toward the lake, punctuated by the refreshing passage through the Gorges du Chauderon, a true natural gem at the city’s doorstep.

And when the lakeside finally appears, one last emotion awaits you. Lake Geneva as a backdrop, the Montreux Trail Festival atmosphere, and — welcoming you at the finish line — the iconic Freddie Mercury. Because here, legends aren’t found only on the summits.

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      A KIND OF MAGIC A magical course. The climb, however, is very real.