The Drayes du Vercors: an event not to be missed in Drôme

Every spring, the Vercors region awakens with renewed energy, marked by iconic events, including Les Drayes du Vercors. This trail race, held every June, is more than just a sporting competition: it's a moment of sharing, commitment, and passion, driven by a community of volunteers and trail runners.

The origin of an adventure

Founded in 1994 by Daniel Gaulupeau , the event quickly became a must-do in the Royans-Vercors region. From its inception, the Drayes du Vercors race distinguished itself with its relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, a convivial ambiance that runners and spectators alike particularly appreciate. As Philippe Dumont , who took over the organization in 2012, explains:

There were a lot of trail runners in the Vercors, and we wanted them to get involved. So in 2014, we created the Drayes du Vercors association, which now brings together around twenty volunteers.

Philippe Dumont

Their goal? To highlight the region through a unifying sporting event.

A trail on a human scale

What makes Drayes so charming is its human-sized dimension. Registrations are voluntarily limited to 1000 participants, spread over four courses, to preserve this proximity and the unique atmosphere of the event. The races vary in difficulty and distance, offering each runner a suitable challenge:

The Drayes : a 55 km course with 2390 meters of elevation gain, for the most experienced trail runners.
The Vertaco : 35 km with 1610 meters of positive elevation gain.
The Lyrette : 21 km with 1080 meters of positive elevation gain.
The Bicquet Intensive Care Unit : 12 km with 299 of positive elevation gain, a more accessible format for getting started in trail running.

Initiatives like that of Claire Catil , a teacher in Saint-Martin-en-Vercors, who organizes a challenge rewarding the most represented school, contribute to this dynamic.

The soul of the Drayes

Les Drayes du Vercors is not just a competition, it's also a rendezvous with the history and values of the region. Philippe Dumont reminds us that "the history of this race is marked by leading figures such as Dawa Sherpa, Marie Dorin, and Fabien Antolinos" and that Renaud Rouanet , a renowned local trail runner, is among the athletes who continue to write this history.

The race makes a point of remaining accessible to all, while maintaining a high level of performance, with the opportunity for participants to compete against exceptional runners, in a friendly atmosphere rare in the world of trail running.

To your sneakers!

Whether you're a seasoned trail runner or a novice, the Drayes du Vercors promises an unforgettable adventure amidst the magnificent landscapes of the Vercors. It's a chance to push yourself, soak up the energy of this iconic race, and experience a unique experience immersed in unspoiled nature. So, are you ready to sign up for the next edition?