A 26.2-mile coastal trail marathon from Les Fontaines, following Jersey’s north, west and south coasts to the finish in St Helier.
The Marathon begins at Les Fontaines in St John and joins the Round the Rock Ultra route for its journey around Jersey’s north-west, western and southern coastline.
The opening section follows rugged north-coast trails towards Grosnez, with steep climbs, cliff paths, stone steps and exposed headlands. From Jersey’s north-west corner, the route continues towards St Ouen’s Bay and the west coast.
Runners then follow the coastline past Corbière, St Brelade’s Bay and Beauport before reaching the final, more runnable section through St Aubin and towards the shared finish in St Helier.
The route is marked at junctions and decision points rather than continuously. Long, obvious sections may have no markings, so every runner must also carry the route on a suitable watch or phone.
Read about the race ethos →The Marathon follows the second half of the Ultra course from Les Fontaines to St Helier. Keep the sea on your right for most of the route and use the GPX alongside the race markings.
The Marathon begins at Les Fontaines in St John. There is no dedicated event transport, so runners must arrange their own journey to the start.
LibertyBus services can provide access towards St John, followed by a walk to Les Fontaines.
A taxi or pre-arranged lift is the simplest direct option from St Helier or your accommodation.
Parking near the start is limited, and the race finishes in St Helier rather than returning to Les Fontaines.
The Marathon uses the later Ultra checkpoints. Supplies are simple and practical, so runners should still carry enough food and water to manage themselves between support points.
The first Marathon checkpoint is reached near Jersey’s north-west corner after the main north-coast section.
The final checkpoint before the last section through St Brelade, St Aubin and St Helier.
Carry a reusable cup, bottle or suitable drinking vessel. Disposable cups are not provided.
Bring your own supplies if you need particular products or have dietary requirements.
The race is solo and self-supported. Pacers, crews and outside assistance are not permitted.
Round the Rock is a grassroots event organised by a very small team and supported by local volunteers. Please understand what the race provides — and what it does not — before entering.
The kit is there to protect you if you become injured, cold or unable to continue. Random or visual kit checks may take place. No kit means no start.
Abuse or aggression towards volunteers, race staff, members of the public or other runners will result in disqualification and may lead to exclusion from future events.
If you value grit over glamour, challenge over comfort and community over corporate gloss, you should fit right in.
The key Marathon details are below. The Race Day Information page remains the definitive source for the latest operational information.
Read the full Race Day Information →Jersey’s cliff paths can be narrow, exposed, technical and slippery. Adjust your pace to the conditions and overtake only where it is safe.
Withdraw at a checkpoint wherever possible and always tell race staff. Do not leave the course without informing the event team. Transport may not be immediate, and runners may need to wait until checkpoint operations allow collection.
Take on the full 48-mile island route or join the final 13.1 miles from The Watersplash.
Round the Rock Marathon returns on Saturday 31 July 2027.
Questions not covered on the Race Day Information page? Email Paul.
