EuropeSwitzerland

Geneva Marathon

A scenic lakeside tour of western Lake Geneva beneath Mont Blanc.

Good for Debut
3.1/10 Difficulty
119m Elevation Gain
2005 Founded

Course Map

Elevation Profile
km
mi

About this Race

The Generali Geneva Marathon is a scenic course around the western tip of Lake Geneva, tracing the lakeshore and surrounding countryside with the Alps and Mont Blanc on the horizon. The terrain rolls gently in places amid the beautiful lakeside setting. Held in May, it offers mild spring conditions and stunning lake-and-mountain scenery. The waterfront and alpine backdrop define the day. It suits runners who want a scenic Swiss lakeside race in pleasant spring weather and don't mind gentle rolling terrain over a flat-out fast time.

city flat scenic lakeside alpine

Course Insight

Geneva is a mostly flat May marathon along the shore of its great lake, scenic and mild with water views much of the way. The level lakeside terrain leaves pacing discipline to you on the open stretches. A breeze off the lake is the main variable to shelter from. The alpine-and-lake scenery is a constant lift. Pace it evenly and the flat course rewards a measured effort.

Pro tip: Hold even pace along the flat lakeshore and shelter from any lake breeze — the alpine views are your lift.

Difficulty Breakdown

3.1/10

A fast, runner-friendly course.

Elevation
2.7
Hill Placement
4.0
Weather
0.9
Turns
3.8

Altitude difficulty: +0.4 pts (elevation)

How we calculate difficulty →

Course Details

Course type
Loop
Elevation gain
119m
Elevation loss
161m
Highest point
455m
Lowest point
376m
Net elevation
-42m
Start
Finishes at the Pont du Mont-Blanc in Geneva, passing through ten lakeside villages and towns.
Cutoff time
6h 0m

Race History

The Generali Geneva Marathon was established around 2005 as a scenic course around the western tip of Lake Geneva, tracing the lakeshore with the Alps and Mont Blanc on the horizon. Its gently rolling terrain amid the beautiful lakeside setting defined its character. From its founding it grew into a popular spring event. Held each May, it draws a field to the Swiss lakeside.

Plan Your Trip

Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.

Nearest airport(s)
Geneva (GVA)
Best area to stay
The city centre at Rive for proximity to the lakefront route and full hotels, the Old Town for atmospheric stays, and Pâquis for lively, value options.
Getting to the start
The start is near the centre/lakefront; walk from central hotels or take a tram to a central stop.

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