2-day trail running course in the Jura mountains with Xavier THEVENARD
In summary
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Sports
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Duration2 days
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LevelAll levels
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DestinationJura / Burgundy-Franche-Comté
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AgeFrom 16 - 75 years
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CO₂-Emissions14.19 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
English
French
In a few words
Immerse yourself in a trail running course in the heart of the Franco-Swiss Jura mountains , guided by Xavier Thévenard , three-time UTMB winner, and his team. For two days, progress on the champion's secret training trails and discover an ideal natural playground to develop your technique and endurance.
This trip is suitable for all runners , from beginners to experienced trail runners, thanks to the creation of ability-based groups . Each day alternates between trail runs and orienteering , varying the effort and enriching your experience of the mountains.
The evening is dedicated to discussion and conference time with Xavier THEVENARD, who will share his experience, training advice and his vision of long-distance trail running.
Accommodation is in comfortable yurts at La Petite Échelle , a natural setting ideal for disconnecting and getting back to basics. Meals are prepared on a self-sufficient mountain farm (water and electricity) , showcasing local, balanced cuisine suitable for athletes .
Between unspoiled nature , expert advice , conviviality and the pleasure of running , this course promises an authentic and inspiring experience to progress in trail running.
The highlights
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Trail running training in the Jura mountains with Xavier THEVENARD, three-time winner of the UTMB
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An exceptional setting between the Swiss and French Jura mountains, in all its simplicity, just like Xav.
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A trail running course in a natural immersion, suitable for all levels, with groups of varying abilities.
Photos
Sport
Level
Trail running
In figures
Trail and road running
- Average duration/day: 3h30
- Average distance/day: 23 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 1250 m
- Average daily descent: 1250 m
Management
During this stay, you will be in contact with Xavier THEVENARD, one of the most decorated Ultra Trail runners in the world (3-time winner of the UTMB, winner of all the races of the UTMB week in Chamonix, CCC, TDS, OCC, UTMB...)
He will be there to share his extensive experience as a trail runner, but also his approach to nature, which he considers more than just a playground...
For the supervision, Xavier will be assisted by Thomas, a mountain guide, ski instructor, trail runner, and Xavier's manager, who is passionate about nature and the Jura region. Thomas is also a trainer at the National Nordic Ski and Mid-Mountain Center in Prémanon, Jura.
Program
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Trail run to the Dent de Vaulion and introduction to orienteering
- Activity Trail and road running
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 20 km
- Positive elevation gain 1000 m
- Negative elevation 1000 m
- Accommodation Shared chalet
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
You are to meet at 9:00 AM at La Petite Échelle in Rochejean (25370) to begin the trip and meet Xavier THEVENARD, his team, and the other participants . The morning will start with a trail run adapted to the group's level , heading towards the Dent de Vaulion in Switzerland . This route will gradually take you along the Jura trails with approximately 1000 meters of elevation gain , offering varied terrain to work on endurance and effort management on climbs.
After lunch, you'll discover the basics of orienteering through a fun, score-based format. Map in hand, you must find as many checkpoints as possible within a given time, freely choosing your route. This activity is accessible to all physical and technical levels , allowing everyone to adapt their course according to their own pace and strategy.
A dynamic moment that develops map reading, sense of direction and decision-making in natural terrain .
Day 1 -
Long hike on the trails of the Jura
- Activity Trail and road running
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 25 km
- Positive elevation gain 1500 m
- Negative elevation 1500 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
This day is dedicated to a long trail run , an opportunity to put into practice the advice shared during the training course. The routes are adapted to each person's level , with distances between 20 and 40km and approximately 1500m of elevation gain .
Following the trails of the Franco-Swiss Jura , you'll progress at your own pace on varied terrain that includes climbs, flat sections, and more runnable stretches. This outing allows you to work on pacing yourself over time , nutrition during the race, and different trail running strategies.
Led by Xavier Thévenard and his team , the group operates in a spirit of sharing and learning, with everyone able to exchange advice and feelings throughout the day.
The return to La Petite Échelle is scheduled for around 4:30 pm. The training camp concludes with a farewell gathering (a chance to recharge before your return journey), marking the end of this weekend of training and camaraderie in the heart of the Jura.
Day 2
Accommodation
You will be accommodated near the chalet, in unusual lodgings: comfortable yurts full of character.
All our accommodations are equipped with a wood-burning stove, pillows, and fleece blankets. Dry toilets are available on site. Mattresses and pillows are protected by faux leather covers. We therefore recommend that you bring the following in your bag: a sleeping bag liner or sleeping bag, a pillowcase and a sheet (available for rent upon reservation), a headlamp, slippers, and warm clothing.
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- The stay will be supervised by Xavier THEVENARD and his team.
- Accommodation in shared yurts
- Full board from lunch on Day 1 to lunch on Day 2
- Snacks after trail runs (afternoon)
- Technical workshops (uphill and downhill running techniques, use of poles, etc.)
- A welcome kit offered by Baouw, 3 months free registration to the Ultra Trail coaching platform, Julbo sunglasses test...
- An additional gift will be offered to those attending the workshop using low-carbon transportation.
The price does not include
- Transportation to the place of stay
- Drinks and personal expenses
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
They traveled with us
They traveled with us
Laurence
- 51 ans
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september 2026
In a group
The Thomas team
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