credit photo : @xavierwaerzeggers
Ultra Trail Tour de Nancy (UTTN): Interview with One of France’s Top-Rated Trail Races
Rated an outstanding 4.9/5 by runners on TrailRunAdvisor, the Ultra Trail Tour de Nancy (UTTN) has quickly established itself as one of the most highly regarded trail running events in Eastern France. Known for its professional organization, welcoming atmosphere, dedicated volunteers, and surprisingly demanding courses, the race attracts runners looking for a unique challenge beyond the mountains.
In this interview, the UTTN team shares what makes the event so special, why so many runners return year after year, and what first-time participants can expect from one of the best-rated trail races in the Grand Est region.
Q1. UTTN is rated 4.9/5 by runners on TrailRunAdvisor. In your opinion, what surprises participants the most when they discover the event for the first time?
A small race with everything you’d expect from a major event! UTTN is a race created by trail runners, for trail runners, and organized by passionate volunteers.
Many participants don’t expect such a professional level of organization. Whether it’s our race village, aid stations, course marking, or overall race experience, runners are often pleasantly surprised—and they’re the ones saying it!
In just five years, UTTN has already become a benchmark trail race in the Grand Est region.
Q2. For a trail runner who has never raced in Nancy before, how would you describe the UTTN experience in three words?
Surprising, demanding, and exciting.
Q3. Many runners describe UTTN as much tougher than they expected. What makes the courses so unique?
When runners look at the distance-to-elevation ratio, they often expect relatively fast and runnable courses.
However, the terrain around Nancy is full of surprises. The trails are constantly changing rhythm, and runners face a succession of steep climbs and descents that gradually wear down the legs. The courses are far more technical and demanding than they appear on paper.
Q4. Volunteers are mentioned in almost every review on TrailRunAdvisor. How important is the human experience throughout the race weekend?
Without volunteers, nothing would be possible.
We are fortunate to have a large and loyal volunteer team, and once again their kindness and enthusiasm left a lasting impression on participants during our latest edition.
A trail race is much more than a bib number and a finish line. It’s about sharing experiences, commitment, solidarity, and those encouraging smiles that give you energy when you need it most. Our volunteers play a huge role in making UTTN such a memorable event.
Q5. If you had to recommend just one distance to someone discovering UTTN for the first time, which one would it be and why?
Without hesitation, our ultra-distance race, the Roi Stan Ultra Trail.
The race starts at night from the magnificent Place Stanislas, offering a truly unique atmosphere. The course combines varied terrain and demanding sections, delivering everything runners expect from an ultra-trail challenge—without the need for mountains.
Many runners assume it will be easier because the profile appears relatively runnable. The reality is very different. This year, only 65% of participants reached the finish line, which shows just how challenging the course can be.
Q6. If a runner is choosing between UTTN and another race on the same weekend, why should they choose UTTN?
Why not combine the pleasure of running a trail race with the opportunity to discover a beautiful region?
If you’ve never visited Nancy, it’s the perfect chance to explore Place Stanislas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful city squares in the world. It also serves as the start line for the Roi Stan Ultra Trail.
Nancy offers everything you would expect from a major city, including rich cultural heritage, excellent gastronomy, and plenty of activities for accompanying family members or friends. It makes for a fantastic race weekend both on and off the trails.
Conclusion
From its iconic start at Place Stanislas and its surprisingly demanding courses to its exceptional volunteers and welcoming atmosphere, the Ultra Trail Tour de Nancy has built an experience that leaves a lasting impression on runners. The outstanding reviews on TrailRunAdvisor reflect what many participants discover for themselves: UTTN is far more than just another trail race.
Whether you’re looking for your next ultra challenge, a demanding trail running adventure in France, or simply a top-rated race with an unforgettable atmosphere, the Ultra Trail Tour de Nancy deserves a place on your race calendar.