The IRONMAN Aix en Provence 70.3 presents athletes with a demanding but rewarding course set in the stunning backdrop of Aix-en-Provence, France. The race kicks off with a swim in Lake Peyrolles, situated roughly 20 kilometers from the city. Competitors tackle a 1.9-kilometer loop in the lake, known for its clear waters and temperatures generally ranging between 16°C and 20°C (61°F to 68°F).
Following the swim, the bike leg begins at Peyrolles and proceeds towards Aix-en-Provence. Cyclists journey through picturesque villages including Rognes, Meyreuil, and Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade, then embark on a loop through the Alpilles mountains, passing captivating locales such as Les Baux-de-Provence and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. This segment culminates on the Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-Provence, renowned for its beautiful tree-lined boulevard.
The running portion of the IRONMAN consists of three loops, starting in Aix-en-Provence. Runners pass through the city’s historic center, taking in sights like the Place de la Rotonde and the Arc de Triomphe d’Aix-en-Provence. The course extends into the surrounding hills, weaving through Saint-Antonin-sur-Bayon and Le Tholonet, before concluding back on the Cours Mirabeau.
In May 2023, Aix-en-Provence, France, experienced a variety of weather conditions. The average daily temperatures were generally warm, with highs averaging around 23°C (73°F) and lows around 13°C (56°F). The weather featured a mix of sunny, cloudy, and rainy days. Specifically, there were approximately 11 sunny days, 9 cloudy days, and 11 days with precipitation.
Throughout the month, there were occasional instances of light rain and thunderstorms. The probability of a wet day decreased slightly over the month, starting at 19% and ending at 15%. The average monthly rainfall showed a gradual decrease from 1.6 inches at the beginning of the month to 1.2 inches by the end.
The average water temperature in Lake of Peyrolles, located in the French Alps, typically ranges from 12°C (54°F) to 19°C (66°F) in May. The water temperature rises gradually throughout the month, with the warmest temperatures typically occurring in late May. Mid May: 14°C (57°F) to 17°C (62°F). Late May: 16°C (61°F) to 19°C (66°F).
