Breathtaking landscapes, dramatic scenery and the promise of adventure - isn’t that what a truly unforgettable hike in France is all about? In the Massif Central, Brittany, Languedoc-Roussillon, on the Côte d’Azur or in Corsica, set out and explore the most beautiful spots for hiking in France! Is your pet holidaying with you? Lots of hiking trails allow you to enjoy a great time with your four-footed friend.
Hiking by the sea: coastal paths in France
Brittany and the GR34
We’re sure you’ve already heard of the GR34 trail in Brittany. It’s most commonly called the “Customs Path”, a coastal trail over 2,000 km long. Yes, that’s right! From the Côte d’Émeraude to the Côte de Granit Rose, you can enjoy a stopover and a spot of tourism in Cancale, Saint-Malo and finish in Saint-Nazaire.
As well as the GR34 in Brittany, there are other beautiful hiking routes to explore, such as the 8-km long Pointe du Roselier, or the path from Cap Fréhel to Fort La Latte (17.5 km). There’s something to suit every level!
The Côte d’Azur and Mediterranean trails
The Esterel, an originally volcanic massif, is one of the unmissable sights when hiking on the Côte d’Azur. There are several paths you can follow in this area, well known for its red rock. And for a great view overlooking the Esterel Massif, head over to Roquebrune-sur-Argens, 376 metres above sea level!
The coastal path in Saint-Tropez is also well worth exploring and has plenty of surprises in store. Hiking doesn’t necessarily mean tackling steep climbs. Along this route, you’ll find yourself with your feet both in the water and on dry land, with hidden coves and fine sandy beaches along the way…
The Pays Basque and Atlantic coastline
Get to know the Pays Basque along its coastal path. From Bidart to Hendaye, take a day out to walk the 25 km to the Spanish border, with great views of the Pyrénées and the Atlantic Ocean. There are several other routes for crossing the Pyrénées and enjoying the wonderful landscapes, such as the GR10 from Hendaye to Sainte-Engrâce or the coastal GR8 from Hendaye to Anglet. Along the way, make the most of a stop at Saint-Jean-de-Luz or Biarritz!
Away from the well-trodden paths and during a well-earned break, how about trying some local products such as cheese made from sheep’s milk, Bayonne ham and Basque cider?
Volcanic hikes and the landscapes of the Massif Central
Volcanoes in Auvergne
Did you know? The trails in the Massif Central were the first to have been marked out for hiking in France. It’s hiking country, so you’ll find paths for walkers of all sorts. Why wait? Head out and explore some of France’s most beautiful trails in Auvergne!
Cantal doesn’t disappoint, with walks towards the Sancy Massif or the Puy-de-Dôme: along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to take in the vastness of the landscape, with its lakes, volcanoes and wildlife in the Aubrac plateau. And since we’re talking volcanoes, you won’t be able to miss these: the Puy de Sancy, Lake Pavin, the Gour de Tazenat, the Puys de la Vache and the Puys de Lassolas. For the braver among you, the GR30 takes you on a tour around the volcanoes and also the lakes of Auvergne!
Gorges and plateaux
Among the shorter hikes in Auvergne, there are several you can do in a day and in several locations:
- the Gorges du Tarn,
- the Limon plateau,
- the Gorges de la Jordanne,
- the Gorges de la Sioule,
- the Aubrac plateau,
- the Causse Méjean,
and the list goes on... Don’t forget to take a substantial picnic for your adventure with family or friends!
After a great day’s hiking, why not enjoy a local beer or a good aligot - a dish made with cheese blended into mashed potatoes - as a reward? Payback time!
Hiking in Corsica: the island of iconic trails
Among the most beautiful hikes to do in France, you can count on the GR20 in Corsica to fill your head with dreams. If you’re very fit and adventurous, take up the challenge of crossing the Island of Beauty from north to south, discovering landscapes that will stay in your memory forever!
There are lots of vistas along the mountainous route, which should be done over several days. Along the way, stop to enjoy some cheeses, cold meats and other Corsican specialities.
Hiking in the mountains: the Alps and Pyrénées
The Alps: unmissable lakes and summits
Fancy a change of air? Scale the heights in the Alps! Along the most well-known route in Europe, the trail around Mont Blanc is a delight for experienced hikers. You’ll be captivated by the beauty of the Alps, with their meadows and glaciers, depending on the season. You’ll need around 10 days for this surprising, lush, 170-km adventure.
More amateur hikers needn’t worry: the Alps offer much more accessible paths too. Enjoy lakes and Alpine landscapes: you won’t be disappointed! In the heart of Queyras, Lake Sainte Anne and Lake Miroir are just around the corner on this beautiful 13-km hike. Out of breath? Head over to the “Rocher du Vent” in Beaufort to end your walk with a spectacular view over Lake Roselend!
The Pyrénées: wild hikes and wide-open spaces
No one could refuse a hike in the French Pyrénées. Follow some marked routes and immerse yourself in magnificent mountainous landscapes. No matter how good a walker you are, you’ll be sure to find a trail to suit you and your family. Whatever you do, don’t miss the opportunity to take in some breathtaking vistas and hidden scenic spots, with charm that will leave you speechless...
Among more easily accessible paths, try the Cirque de Gavarnie, which only takes 2 hours, Lake Gaube (an hour and half) or Lake Oô and its waterfall. More experienced walkers will be able to try the Néouvielle Reserve with its high-altitude lakes or the Sentier des Crêtes.
Practical tips for hiking in France
Make sure your hike in France doesn’t turn into a nightmare by being sure to take along the right things:
- A backpack suited to the trail you’re following
- Some water
- Some energy snacks
- Hiking boots
- Technical hiking socks
- A waterproof jacket/anorak
- A cap or hat
- Sunglasses
- Sun cream
- A portable power bank
- A GPS or offline tracking app
- Bags for rubbish
You might want some safety equipment too:
- A first-aid kit (dressings, disinfectant, plasters, patches for blisters etc.)
- A whistle
- A Swiss army knife
You can never be too prepared for a good hike!
Accommodation while hiking in France
If you’re hiking for several days in one corner of France, how about booking some accommodation at a campsite close to your route? Enjoy the comfort your body deserves, so you can continue your hiking adventure in good form!
At a 4 or 5 star campsite, you’ll still be close to nature, but enjoying some high-end facilities such as heated swimming pools, restaurants, bars, grocery shops, launderettes, children’s clubs, etc.
Loyal and curious, your dog will enjoy a hike too!
Always ready for new adventures, your dog will follow you absolutely everywhere, even on some of the most wonderful hikes in France. And you’re right to take him or her with you so they can discover the world through some great new smells! A dog isn’t man’s best friend for nothing... Make sure that the path is accessible and that dogs are allowed, so you don’t have any nasty surprises once you arrive.
France is one of those countries capable of leaving you with some unforgettable memories, with its wealth of culture and outdoor adventures at the heart of some magnificent hiking trails. It’s paradise for long-distance hikers and also those who love getting out into the great outdoors!
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