History

Born from the passion of local runners, the Montreux–Les Rochers-de-Naye race has become a key event in Swiss mountain running. Here’s a look back at the defining moments of this collective journey.

Francis Brülhart, founder of the race, alongside Jonathan Wyatt, record holder of The Classic.

1977

"

The Beginning

Birth of a visionary club

A group of passionate running enthusiasts founded the Club Athlétique Montreux (CAM), inspired by the energy surrounding a brand-new athletics stadium on the Vaud Riviera. Driven by Francis Brülhart and a committed founding committee, CAM was created with a clear ambition: to make Montreux shine in the world of athletics.

1978

"

First race

Montreux–Les Paccots

To launch the club, CAM organized the first edition of the Montreux–Les Paccots race—a 17 km route linking Montreux to the heights of the Fribourg region, with a prestigious first winner: Domingo Tibaduiza, a top-level Colombian athlete. After three editions, construction of the highway forced organizers to rethink the course.

1981

"

The Classic is born

Montreux–Les Rochers-de-Naye

This marked the beginning of the iconic race: Montreux–Les Rochers-de-Naye (The Classic), a 18.4 km challenge with 1,760 meters of elevation gain.
The race starts on the shores of Lake Geneva and finishes along alpine ridgelines. Despite initial political resistance at the local level, the vision of president Francis Brülhart prevailed, laying the foundation for the event as we know it today.

2009

"

An accessible format

Caux–Les Rochers-de-Naye 

In the lead-up to the 2010 Swiss Mountain Running Championships, CAM introduced a new route: Caux–Les Rochers-de-Naye (The Cadette), covering 9.2 km with 950 m of elevation gain. This shorter format opened the race to a wider range of participants while preserving the mountain spirit and demanding nature of The Classic.

2024

"

The Aerial Adventure

The Hike & Fly

A spectacular event is born: the Hike & Fly. Participants climb the 9.2 km from Caux to Les Rochers-de-Naye on foot, then take off by paraglider toward Villeneuve, passing two aerial checkpoints and aiming for a precision landing. A unique fusion of trail running and free flight, designed for thrill-seekers and mountain adventurers.

2025

"

The Essence of Vertical

The Directissima

New in 2025, the Directissima offers a steep, uncompromising ascent: 5.5 km and 970 meters of elevation gain from Caux to Rochers-de-Naye. A relentless and brutal effort, built for powerful climbers and pure vertical enthusiasts.