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Much more than just a road race, Marseille–Cassis is a journey between two cities and two landscapes. The route gradually leaves the hustle and bustle of Marseille behind, climbs toward the Col de la Gineste, crosses the Calanques National Park, and then winds its way through the vineyards of Cassis.
Founded in 1979 by André Giraud, the Marseille–Cassis race drew just over 700 participants in its first edition. Nearly half a century later, it attracts 20,000 runners from France and abroad. The event holds the international certification of the French Athletics Federation and involves more than 800 volunteers.
Its reputation stems as much from its atmosphere as from its route between Marseille and Cassis. Of the race’s 20 kilometers, 12 run through the Calanques National Park. The scenery alternates between sweeping urban vistas, limestone formations, Mediterranean vegetation, and unobstructed views of the mountain ranges surrounding Marseille and Cassis.
The first few kilometers take you gradually away from the area around the Vélodrome as you head up toward Luminy. The course, which is already slightly uphill, calls for caution: carried away by the crowd and the energy of the start, it’s easy to set a pace that’s too fast.
The race’s main challenge begins at the 5-kilometer mark: the climb up the Col de la Gineste. About five kilometers long, it takes runners up to an elevation of 327 meters. The slope steepens after the Luminy roundabout, while the course gradually opens up to reveal the rocky landscapes of the Calanques.
The pass is crossed around the 10-kilometer mark. It marks the highest point of the race, but not the end of the challenges. The descent toward Cassis really puts a strain on the legs and requires riders to maintain enough control to avoid struggling through the final kilometers. The course continues through the Carpiagne area, then toward Bois Joli, before reaching the upper reaches of Cassis.
The finish line is located on Avenue des Albizzi, in the heart of the Provence vineyards. This elevated finish line brings the unique character of the Marseille–Cassis race to a close: it is neither a traditional half-marathon nor an entirely urban race, but a course shaped by the terrain, changes in pace, and the beauty of the landscape.
Three aid stations are planned: at the 5-kilometer mark, at the Luminy roundabout; at the 10-kilometer mark, at the Col de la Gineste; and at the 15-kilometer mark, at Bois Joli. The latest details can be found in the official information for Marseille–Cassis 2026.
The Hôtel La Joliette by Esteem is located at 49 Avenue Robert Schuman, in Marseille’s 2nd arrondissement. The Joliette station is just a few minutes’ walk from the hotel.
On the morning of the race, participants can take the M2 line toward Sainte-Marguerite Dromel. The subway ride takes approximately 11 minutes and requires no transfers.
For the 2026 event, access to the starting area will be via the Ganay Esplanade and Raymond-Teisseire Street, upon presentation of your race bib and official wristband. The Sainte-Marguerite Dromel station is therefore the most convenient option. The organizer notes that access will not be possible from the Prado Roundabout.
Taking walking time into account, you should allow about 20 to 25 minutes to get from the hotel to the starting area. Leaving early enough will give you plenty of time to reach your starting corral and drop off your bag at the cloakroom without adding to the stress of an already exciting morning.
Race bib pickup will take place at the Expo Village in Parc Chanot on Friday, October 23, from 10:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and on Saturday, October 24, from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Since Parc Chanot is served by the same metro line, runners can easily make the round trip from La Joliette.
When picking up their race packet, each participant will also receive an official wristband, which is required to enter the starting area and claim their refreshments at the finish line.
On Sunday morning, bag check bags must be dropped off in the organization’s trucks between 6:45 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. Only the clear bag provided at the Expo Village will be accepted. It will then be transported to Cassis and returned on Avenue Foch after the race.
Having returned to La Joliette the day before, the participants found an environment more conducive to rest. The hotel features 64 air-conditioned rooms with contemporary design, available in various categories. Some can be configured with twin beds upon request, while the Deluxe rooms offer more space, a private terrace, or a duplex layout.
After crossing the finish line, the port of Cassis offers the perfect setting to catch your breath and savor the satisfaction of having finished. Lunch on a terrace or a few moments gazing out at the sea are a great way to unwind after the race before heading back to Marseille.
The organizers are providing buses reserved for runners between Cassis and Marseille. The buses will run continuously from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and then with one or two departures every 30 minutes between 3:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. In Marseille, participants will be dropped off on Rue Raymond-Teisseire, near Parc Chanot.
All you need to do is take the M2 line at Sainte-Marguerite Dromel to travel directly to Joliette. A return train service between Cassis and Marseille-Saint-Charles should also be available. Since schedules and details are subject to change, it’s best to check the official transportation information as the race approaches.
After 20 kilometers and crossing the Gineste River, the ease of the return trip really hits home. The Hôtel La Joliette by Esteem features a 24-hour front desk and concierge service, as well as secure luggage storage for travelers who need to check out of their rooms before returning from Cassis.
Among the hotel’s wellness facilities and amenities, guests will find a heated indoor pool, a steam room, and a 24-hour fitness center. Guests can, of course, tailor their routine to their level of fatigue and their recovery habits.
Travelers arriving by car can take advantage of a partner parking lot located nearby, which offers discounted rates. On the weekend of the race, leaving your car near the hotel and using the subway makes getting around much easier.
You can also extend your stay to explore the Docks, the Terrasses du Port, the Major Cathedral, or the MuCEM. The page dedicated to tourism around La Joliette helps you locate the main museums, monuments, and walking routes accessible from the hotel.
Book your stay at the Hôtel La Joliette by Esteem and get ready to experience Marseille–Cassis, with direct access to the race, contemporary comfort, and the charm of Marseille by the sea.
Each BWH Hotels property is individually operated by an independent owner.
