4.4
(5)
494
runners
58
runs
Jogging around Ilonse provides access to a diverse landscape in the Alpes-Maritimes department, characterized by an amphitheater of forests and the backdrop of Mount Cocouluche. The region features a significant altitude range, from 351 meters to 1992 meters, offering varied gradients for different levels of running. Runners can experience wide alpine meadows and enjoy views of the main chain of the Maritime Alps and the Tinée valley. This varied topography, including mountain passes and canyons, makes Ilonse a compelling destination…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
14
runners
15.2km
02:50
1,090m
1,090m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
9
runners
9.55km
01:10
300m
300m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5
runners
12.9km
01:36
400m
400m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
runners
9.84km
01:25
460m
460m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Some sure footedness required.
6
runners
12.1km
02:02
800m
800m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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This picnic area is a few steps from the forest cabin and the Collet du Puei. It’s a great place to stop in the middle of a hike.
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COLLET du PUEI: Pleasant shaded place with tables for a quiet lunch. See interesting information in the forest hut.
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Rimplas is a small town located in the heart of the Mercantour National Park. The village makes an excellent base camp for exploring the region's hiking trails. The cafes and inns of the village invite you to spend an excellent stay there.
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According to the writings, the Saint-Donat chapel appeared around 1246. At 869 meters above sea level, it proudly dominates the hamlet of Le Planet.
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On this bucolic part of the GR 5 which winds along the mountainside, a small stone bridge spans one of the many tributaries of the Tinée. From the cleared paths, the views over the valleys are spectacular.
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From here, between Colle de Rins and Collet de Puei, you have a magnificent view of Valdeblore!
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An ideal place to start the mountain bike ride to Mont Viroulet! There is a parking lot and a picnic table where you can rest in the sun.
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With its narrow streets and narrow houses, the village looks very much like the Corsican mountain villages.
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There are over 50 running routes around Ilonse, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars.
Jogging around Ilonse offers a diverse landscape, from majestic forests and wide alpine meadows to varied mountain terrain. You'll encounter significant altitude changes, mountain passes, and even canyons, with some access roads featuring unique red schist. The routes provide stunning views of the main chain of the Maritime Alps and the Tinée valley.
While many routes are challenging, there are options for less strenuous jogs. The region offers 'easy' paths suitable for any fitness level, typically up to 2 hours with around 1,000 feet of elevation gain. For example, the Lauvet d'Ilonse crossing is described as an easy circular hike over wide alpine meadows, ideal for a more relaxed run.
The routes around Ilonse offer access to several natural attractions. You might encounter impressive features like the Gorges du Cians, the serene Lac Long, or enjoy a Panoramic View of the Tinée Valley. The area is also rich in mountain passes, such as Saint-Martin Pass (La Colmiane) and Col de la Couillole.
Yes, the Ilonse region is known for its breathtaking panoramas. Routes like the 'Exceptional panorama – Superb panorama loop from Pierlas' and 'Exceptional panorama – Superb panorama loop from Col de la Sinne' are specifically highlighted for their incredible vistas. Many trails also offer superb views of the main chain of the Maritime Alps and the Tinée valley.
Absolutely. Ilonse is considered a 'paradise for trail running,' offering training sessions for experienced athletes. Many routes are classified as difficult, with significant elevation gains and longer distances. For instance, the Cime de Ballour loop from Rimplas is a challenging 9.4-mile trail with over 1,000 meters of elevation gain.
Yes, many of the running routes around Ilonse are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Cime de Ballour loop from Rimplas and the View of Valdeblore loop from Valdeblore, both popular choices among local runners.
The komoot community highly rates the running experience in Ilonse, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 4 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse terrain, from majestic forests to wide alpine meadows, and the stunning panoramic views of the Maritime Alps and the Tinée valley. The variety of routes catering to different ability levels is also a significant draw.
Yes, the 'Rimplas – Nice shower waterfall loop from Rimplas' is a moderate 6.55km route with 370m of elevation gain that specifically mentions a waterfall, offering a scenic option for a moderate jog or trail run.
While many routes are challenging, the region does offer 'easy' paths suitable for various fitness levels, which can be adapted for family jogs. The Lauvet d'Ilonse crossing, an easy circular hike over wide alpine meadows, could be a good option for families looking for a more relaxed experience with beautiful views.
Ilonse, nestled in the Alpes-Maritimes, offers diverse conditions throughout the year. While specific recommendations depend on personal preference, the varied altitude range means you can find suitable routes in different seasons. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures for running, while summer provides access to higher alpine trails. Winter running is also possible, though some higher routes may be affected by snow.
Yes, Ilonse serves as an excellent base camp for exploring the extensive hiking trails within the Mercantour National Park. Many of the trails in the region can be adapted for jogging or trail running, allowing you to experience the park's extraordinary landscapes and breathtaking panoramas.


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