For several years now, the Pâquier has been transformed into a vast biathlon field for a weekend. On the menu? Several races, for professional biathletes, adults and children. The Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival is a unique opportunity to share a moment with international athletes. Presentation.
The Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival, a sporting event not to be missed
Every year in September, international biathletes and other professional athletes meet in Annecy, on the Pâquier, for the Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival. As the name suggests, it is the five-time Olympic champion who is behind the event. His objective? To offer a show worthy of the name to the French public and to allow them to meet the greatest while waiting for thewinter and the Biathlon World Cup in Grand-Bornand.
A few figures about the event
After three editions, the MFNF has established itself as an essential event on the shores of the lake. In two days of competition and 6 races, some 968 balls were fired by the 60 international biathletes present. Among them, we find Anaïs Chevalier-Bouchet and Justine Braisaz-Bouchet for the French, Émilien Jacquelin or Quentin Fillon-Maillet for the men. In other words, the line-up is more than appealing.
Where to see the MFNF?
To enjoy the Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival, it is not necessary to go to the heart of the Pâquier. You can go to Avenue d’Albigny to see the athletes on Saturday and Sunday. And for those who prefer to be comfortably seated in the stands, it is possible to book tickets online.
Video summary of the 2021 edition
In order to whet your appetite, we offer you a video of the 2021 edition of the Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival.
Practical information to enjoy the event
The nerve centre of the event is undoubtedly on the Pâquier, where the start and finish of the races take place. Also at this location, you will find the village with some 60 tents, refreshment stands and foodtrucks. Signing sessions are organised here, as well as competitions and biathlon initiations.
Where to park during the Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival?
To get to the MFNF, we recommend that you use public transport, cycling or walking if you live close to the event. Otherwise, you can use the car parks:
- Hôtel-de-Ville, 432 spaces.
- Bonlieu, 693 spaces.
- Palais de Justice, 110 spaces.
- Courier, 763 spaces.
The streets near the Berthollet and Sommeiller high schools remain free. Although places are scarce, it may be worth trying your luck.
Where to stay in Annecy for the MFNF?
If you don’t live in Annecy and are travelling especially for the Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival, here are some ideas for accommodation near the Pâquier.
The Atipik Hotel
The Atipik Hotel is a 2-star hotel located in the centre of Annecy. Only 5 minutes from the train station and the Pâquier, it is the ideal place for a sporting weekend like this one. The hotel has 25 rooms, all of which are different from each other.From 132 € per night.
Hotel du Nord
The Hotel du Nord is also located 5 minutes from the lake. The rooms are air-conditioned and there is free parking nearby.From € 101 per night.
L’Impérial Palace
The Impérial Palace is a 4-star hotel located on the shores of Lake Annecy. You can reach the MFNF on foot, along the Avenue d’Albigny.From 346 € per night.
Hotel Campanile Annecy
The 3-star Hotel Campanile Annecy Centre Gare welcomes you just a few minutes from the train station.From 147 € per night, you can enjoy the city centre while attending the Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival.
Past editions
The 2022 edition
The2022 edition of the Martin Nordic Festival attracted a large crowd again this year. The event is an opportunity to see international biathletes finish their preparation for the winter season. The show was there and Martin Fourcade, who was counting on Quentin Fillon-Maillet to ensure the show, was well served. The Frenchman finished first in the men’s mass start, which was the only competition left to win for the Jura native. It is now a done deal.