Chantilly isn’t just a pretty backdrop—it’s one of France’s most iconic estates, just 40 minutes north of Paris. The château as we know it today was mostly rebuilt in the 19th century, but its roots go all the way back to the Middle Ages. Over the centuries, it’s been home to princes, dukes, and one of the most impressive private art collections in the country.

Even from a distance, it makes a statement. Towers, courtyards, arched bridges, and a sweeping park designed by André Le Nôtre (the same landscape designer behind Versailles)—Chantilly has all the elegance you’d expect from French royalty.

The swim at Chantilly takes place in the château’s Grand Canal—a wide, calm stretch of water framed by sculpted trees and formal lawns. It’s the kind of swim start that makes people stop and stare, whether they’re racing or not.

Once you’re out on the bike, you head through the surrounding countryside, passing through villages, open farmland, and forest tracks. It’s fast in places, technical in others, with just enough elevation to keep things interesting. And on the run, you’re back within the estate itself—looping past the château, along gravel paths and shaded woodland.

Every part of the course gives you something to look at. From ancient stonework to sweeping lawns and mirrored lakes, it’s a course that feels as good as it looks.

If you’ve never raced abroad before, Chantilly is a great way to start. It’s easy to get to, just a short drive from Paris or a quick train from Gare du Nord and once you arrive, everything’s close by. 

Many of our athletes travel from the UK and Ireland, using the ferry or Eurostar, and turn the weekend into a mini holiday.

There’s a brilliant atmosphere at the event itself, with a mix of local French triathletes and an international crowd. Everyone’s up for the challenge, but there’s also a sense of fun and adventure that makes this one stand out. 

We see returning athletes year after year, and for good reason, once you’ve raced at Chantilly, it’s hard to top.