Trail du Massif des Brasses

The Trail du Massif des Brasses is a 32-kilometer trail race with 1,800 meters of elevation gain that takes place in the Brasses massif, in the Haute-Savoie department. This mid-mountain massif, situated between the Arve valley and the Bornes plateau, offers an ideal playground for trail running in a green and accessible pre-Alpine setting. Les Brasses is a small family resort, known for its modest but friendly ski area and its exceptional panoramas of the Mont Blanc massif.

The Brasses massif culminates at Le Mole, at 1,863 meters of altitude, an isolated and recognizable summit that dominates the Arve valley and offers one of the most iconic views of Mont Blanc. This mountain, dear to Horace-Benedict de Saussure who climbed it in the 18th century, is an exceptional natural viewpoint. The massif also includes the Brasses plateau and surrounding ridges forming a harmonious ensemble of pastures, forests, and rounded summits.

The 32-kilometer course crosses the different landscapes of the Brasses massif. The trails follow pastoral paths winding through alpine meadows, forest tracks traversing fir and spruce woods, and ridge trails offering 360-degree panoramas. The route allows discovery of altitude villages where traditional wooden chalets testify to preserved mountain architecture. Fountains and troughs dot the course, recalling the importance of pastoral activity in this region.

The 1,800 meters of positive elevation gain over 32 kilometers produce an elevation-to-distance ratio that implies steady and sustained climbs. The terrain is nevertheless less technical than in high-mountain massifs, making this race accessible to a broad trail running audience. The trails are generally well-marked and challenging passages are rare. The descents are pleasant, on grassy or forest trails that are gentle on the joints.

The climate of the Brasses massif is typically pre-Alpine, with regular precipitation maintaining the brilliant green of the alpine pastures. Summers are temperate, with pleasant temperatures at altitude. The proximity of the Arve valley can generate morning mists that generally dissipate by mid-morning, giving way to clear skies and sharp views of the surrounding mountains.

Pastoral life is at the heart of the Brasses massif's identity. Dairy cattle herds graze in the alpine pastures during summer, and the milk produced is used to make local cheeses. Runners cross this living landscape, among herds and wildflowers, in a bucolic and peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with the roughness of high-mountain races.

For international runners, the Brasses massif is easily accessible from the A40 motorway crossing the Arve valley. Geneva airport is approximately one hour away by road. The towns of Bonneville and La Roche-sur-Foron, located nearby, offer varied accommodation options. The Brasses resort itself has some lodgings, and rural gites in the surroundings complete the offer.

Assistance on the Trail du Massif des Brasses is facilitated by the network of roads and tracks traversing the massif. An assistant can access several points along the course and provide regular support. The race, of moderate distance, does not require as extensive assistance as longer events, but personalized support remains appreciated for optimizing performance and racing enjoyment.

The Trail du Massif des Brasses is a charming race that reveals the discreet beauty of the Haute-Savoie mid-mountains. It is an event that privileges harmony between sporting challenge and the pleasure of contemplation, in a massif where nature and pastoral traditions coexist in perfect harmony.

Trail du Massif des Brasses is a 32 km trail race with 1,800 m of elevation gain, located in Viuz-en-Sallaz, Haute-Savoie. The next edition is scheduled for 14 June 2026.

Find all official information on the race website.