Mad Jacques Trek Roya 2026: trekking between France and Italy with a bivouac at Colle di Tenda

The renowned outdoor adventure Mad Jacques Trek Roya takes a major step forward in 2026, crossing French borders for the first time and expanding into Italy. From May 27 to 31, the event offers a unique cross-border trekking experience between the Roya Valley and the Italian Alps, combining nature, endurance, and community spirit.

An international trek between the Alps and the Mediterranean

The 2026 edition takes place thanks to the support of the European program RivierALP, which promotes sustainable routes between the Alps and the Mediterranean. The event is organized in collaboration with the Office de Tourisme Menton Riviera & Merveilles.

The trail crosses spectacular alpine landscapes, including forests, high-altitude pastures, and mountain passes above 1,800 meters.

Two routes for different experience levels

The Mad Jacques Trek Roya 2026 offers two formats:

• Long route (May 27–31):
  55 km with 3,200 meters of elevation gain, starting from La Brigue in the Mercantour National Park.
• Short route (May 29–31):
  24 km with 1,400 meters of elevation gain, starting from Limone Piemonte.

Both routes lead to a shared destination: the Fort Central.

Bivouac at 2,000 meters in Fort Central

A highlight of the experience is the overnight bivouac at Fort Central, a 19th-century military structure located at the Colle di Tenda, right on the Franco-Italian border.

At 2,000 meters above sea level, the site offers breathtaking views and serves as a meeting point for all participants before the final descent to Castérino.

Arrival at the Castérino Ecotourism Festival

The trek concludes with the Castérino Ecotourism Festival, supported by the European programs ALCOTRA and ALPIMED+ ECOTOUR.

The festival features local producers, nature activities, guided hikes, climbing workshops, and evening entertainment including live music, traditional dances, and DJ sets.

A journey between adventure and sustainability

Mad Jacques Trek Roya stands out as one of the most unique alpine trekking experiences, combining sport, cross-border discovery, and environmental awareness.