The Essential
KM
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H. max
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max. altitude
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D+
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Departure
Saturday, September 26 at 8:00 a.m.
The start will be in Tramelan, behind the Marelle multipurpose hall.
Time limits and time barriers
- The maximum time to reach the first aid station in Cortébert is 2 hours (10:00).
- The maximum time to reach the 2nd aid station at the Central Square is 3 hours (11:00).
- Maximum time to reach the 3rd supply point at Chasseral is 5 hours (13:00).
- The maximum time to reach the 4th aid station at Mt-Crosin is 7.5 hours (3:30 PM).
- The entire route must be completed in a maximum of 9 hours (17:00).
ITRA Points
By completing the race, you will earn 2 ITRA points
Race regulations
Coming soon here
Supplies
5 aid stations. 4 full aid stations at Cortébert, Place Centrale, Chasseral and Mt-Crosin and 1 liquid only at Villeret.
Fees and registration conditions
CHF 65.- from 01 to 28 February 2026.
CHF 80.- from 01.03 to 23.09.26.
CHF 95.- on site.
Bib collection and briefing
On Saturday, September 26, 2026 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.
Required equipment
A personal cup is required for use at aid stations.
There are no cups provided at the aid stations.
A headlamp is also mandatory.
Recommended equipment
- Backpack
- Water reservoir, min 1l
- Survival blanket
- Whistle
- Adhesive elastic bandage for use in slinging or strapping
- Waterproof jacket to withstand bad weather in the mountains
- Small food reserve (bars, gels)
- Mobile phone
If you choose to use poles, you must have them with you throughout the race.
The Essential is a route that condenses the most beautiful sites of the Bernese Jura, hence its name.
This Essential route demands good physical preparation for those wishing to take on a challenge by covering a distance close to a marathon, but in the heart of nature, with the added challenge of significant elevation gain.
After a steep climb to the ridge, a rapid and challenging descent to Cortébert awaits, which can be quite demanding.
The trail then leads you to Chasseral and its antenna before descending through the magnificent Combe-Grède via a technical path.
From St-Imier, the route ascends via the Col du Sergent to reach the Mt-Crosin wind farm and its welcome refreshment station.
A final push takes you to Tramelan and the finish line.
