Beneva Quebec City Marathon presented by Montellier: your Canadian destination race

If you haven’t yet finalized your 2023 fall race schedule, you should add the Beneva Quebec City Marathon presented by Montellier as your marquee event. Known for its scenic route and lively atmosphere, Quebec City’s annual race weekend attracts participants from across Canada and around the world. The route, which winds through three boroughs and nine neighbourhoods, showcases the city’s beautiful and historic sites while challenging athletes with a dynamic and exciting course.

The route begins in the heart of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its charming cobblestone streets and stunning architecture. As runners set off, they are greeted by the picturesque view of the iconic Château Frontenac towering above the city skyline. The course winds its way through the historic district, passing by landmarks such as the Parliament building and the Plains of Abraham.

As participants venture beyond the old city walls, they are treated to breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River. The route takes them along the scenic Promenade Samuel de Champlain, a picturesque pathway that hugs the shoreline, offering panoramic vistas of the water and the surrounding countryside. 

One of the highlights of the Beneva Quebec City Marathon presented by Montellier is the support from enthusiastic spectators. Because the course winds through so many neighbourhoods, there are plenty of spectators and volunteers on the sidelines urging runners on with encouraging signs and lively cheers. 

Debunking the Quebec City Marathon myths

Over the years, the Quebec City marathon has been rumored to be a hilly, challenging course, which has caused many runners to shy away from it. While the route does feature a very gradual incline and a few “false flats,” there is only one real hill. The race features its own “Heartbreak Hill,” but unlike the Boston Marathon, it now occurs much earlier in the race, at kilometre 12, and is considerably shorter than the real Heartbreak Hill. 

The winding route also comes with the added perk of protecting you from the wind, so you needn’t stress that a strong headwind on race day is going to dash your hopes of a new personal best.

The marathon finishes back in Old Quebec, where the historic cityscape serves as a stunning backdrop as you cross the finish line. Regardless of how your race goes, you’re sure to get a great finish-line photo.

Canada’s destination race

The Quebec City Marathon offers a unique blend of challenge, natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It is an experience that leaves a lasting impression on participants and spectators alike in one of our country’s most captivating cities. So don’t let the rumours dissuade you–this is a race you don’t want to miss. Register now at jecoursqc.com.