No matter where you are, there are new paths to run and trails to discover. Join Anne-Laure as she takes us for a run along her favourite trail route in Bordeaux, France.
My philosophy is: it doesn’t matter what sport you’re practicing as long as you enjoy it. After finishing my first marathon, my passion for running continues to grow and grow.
I’m always pushing to discover new playgrounds off the beaten track, in the city or out in the wild. Whether it’s near my home in Bordeaux or in one of the places I’ve visited around the world, I’m always looking to share my love of exercise on my blog Bonjour Darling.
Discovering the trails
I absolutely love running. I’ve always ran from time to time, but for the last two years it has become a true passion and nothing can stop me now.
After always running on roads and paths, I have discovered a new love for trail running. I’ve been tempted since my first Spartan Race, but my new-found passion was confirmed during a race I did recently in Bilbao. I realised it was time to go and discover a trail run on my own.
I started off by getting the right pair of shoes, then I searched for a running spot close to my home in Bordeaux where I could run in the wilderness, with hill climbs, descents and a beautiful view. That’s how I discovered Ermitage Park.
Let the adventure begin
A few kilometres away from Bordeaux, Ermitage Park is really easy to access. It’s located only 6km from the city centre and you can run along the banks of the Garonne to get there. Once at the park entrance, in front of an arch covered with graffiti, at first you could be a bit puzzled and wonder if you’re on the right track, but cross the arch and let the adventure begin.
Start running, discover the lake, take small paths through the woods, climb the stairs and make your way to the top of the park to appreciate a magnificent view of Bordeaux. If you want to run further into the wilderness, Palmer Park is not far either. To get back to the city centre you can follow the riverside again, but this time try the left bank. This side is wilder and will smooth your return to civilization.
Running in the Challenger ATR 3
The look of the Challenger ATR 3 surprised me. I tend to always run with the same type of shoes, so these were quite a change, but they intrigued me. to take up trail running, I knew that my basic running trainers would not be appropriate.
“I feel like I have a better stride and my foot now falls more on the front and not the heel, without my control.” Anne-Laure Saux
When the shoes arrived and I put them on I was surprised. The soles that looked imposing in photos are not that big, and ultimately, I really liked them. From that first step when I started running, I liked them even more. I feel like I have a better stride and my foot now falls more on the front and not the heel, without my control.
Learn more about the Challenger ATR 3 shoes Anne-Laure wears.