The Essential

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D+

Departure

Saturday September 27 at 8:00 a.m.
The start will be given in Tramelan, behind the Marelle multipurpose hall.

Time limit and time barriers

Max. time to reach the 1st supply point in Cortébert is 2 hours (10:00 a.m.).
Max. time to reach the 2nd supply point at Place Centrale is 3 hours (11:00 a.m.).
Max. time to reach the 3rd supply point in Chasseral is 5 hours (1:00 p.m.).
Max. time to reach the 4th supply point at Mt-Crosin is 7.5 hours (3:30 p.m.).
The entire route must be completed in max. 9 a.m. (5 p.m.).

ITRA Points

By completing the race you will get 2 ITRA points

Race regulations

Consult the 2024 race regulations

Refueling

3 refreshments. In Villeret, Chasseral and Cortébert.

Fees and conditions of registration

CHF 60.- from March 1 to 31, 2025.
CHF 70.- from 04/01 to 09/24/25.
CHF 80.- on site.

Withdrawal of bibs and briefing

Saturday September 27, 2025 in Tramelan at the Salle de la Marelle between 5:30 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. with your identity document.

Briefing 5 minutes before departure, at 07:55.

Mandatory equipment

A personal cup for refueling is required. There are no cups at the aid stations. A headlamp is also mandatory.

Recommended material

Backpack
Water reserve, min 1l
Blanket
Whistle
Adhesive elastic band for bandaging or strapping
Waterproof jacket to withstand bad weather in the mountains

Small food reserve (bars, gels)

Cellphone

If you choose to take poles, you must have them throughout the race.

The Essential is a route which condenses the most beautiful sites of the Bernese Jura, hence its name.

This L'Essentielle course requires good physical preparation for those who wish to take on a challenge by covering a distance close to a marathon but in the heart of nature, with added elevation.
After a steep climb on the ridge, a steep and rapid descent to Cortébert which can leave traces.
The path then takes you to Chasseral and its antenna to descend via the magnificent Combe-Grède via a technical path.
From St-Imier, go up the Col du Sergent to arrive at the Mt-Crosin wind farm and its welcome refueling.
Last effort to finally reach Tramelan and the finish line.