Serge Vigot La Rochelle International Marathon

In late November, La Rochelle's maritime air is crisp and the crowds have thinned, leaving the old port's cafes and the twin towers of Saint-Nicolas and La Chaîne yours to savor. Before or after the race, wander the medieval streets of the Vieux Port, where the daily market brims with fresh oysters and Charentais melon, and warm up with a glass of local Pineau des Charentes. The 10k route's finish at the foot of the towers is a fitting reward, with the Atlantic breeze and the city's timeless stone as your backdrop.