Walking Holidays in France

Depending on which part of France you’re visiting, the weather and recommended travel dates will vary. In the French Alps, between June and September generally provides ideal hiking conditions when there is little rain and there are longer daylight hours. But if you want to explore the French Riviera on foot then it’s best to avoid travelling during July and August when the temperatures can soar. May, June and September are great months for walking as there are less crowds and the temperatures are slightly cooler.  

Standing at almost 5,000m at the heart of the French Alps, Mont Blanc is an imposing and dramatic peak. While the mountain isn’t technically difficult to climb, there are, however, lots of scrambling sections and long days of walking uphill so you will need a reasonable level of fitness and stamina to complete the trek. Mont Blanc also has a lower altitude and milder climate than other mountains, so it’s considered moderate to challenging.

Known for its verdant vineyards and ridiculously picturesque landscapes, France is one of the best countries in the world for enjoying wine tours. From the world-famous Champagne region to the heavenly Loire Valley, you’re totally spoilt for choice. Burgundy’s vineyards are some of the finest in the country producing the likes of Pinot Noir and Beaujolais, while in Vouvray you can take a tour of the wine cellars and learn about the history and cultural importance of the region’s wines.

Combining soaring alpine peaks, fairytale chateaux and medieval villages, France is home to endless walking trails that capture its pure beauty, history and culture. A few of our favourite walking routes include the epic Mont Blanc Circuit, the scenic Loire Valley and Corsica’s mountain trails. Alternatively, discover the country’s sun-bleached coastline along the stunning French Riviera. The famous GR20 is one of the most exhilarating long-distance routes, which leads you through beech and pine forests and presents you with uninterrupted views of Monte d’Oro.

There are an estimated 45,000 chateaux in France and on many of our walking tours you’ll have the opportunity to explore many of them. In the Loire Valley alone, there are 300 castles strewn across the region and clinging to the hillsides. Once home to royalty, the chateaux were built using Renaissance or French baroque architecture, which gives them their distinctive fairy-tale appearance.

If you’re a lover of history, nature and culture, then you’ll find Normandy a fabulous region for walking holidays. As well as discovering the dark WWII history and walking along the D-Day Landing beaches, you can explore gorgeous landscapes that have inspired many French impressionist artists. Honfleur, Tour-en-Bessin and Bayeux are incredibly beautiful and brimming with ancient buildings and fascinating sites. At Trouville, walk along the famous boardwalk of Deauville where celebrities are seen during the American Film Festival.

Owing to its emerald lakes, cascading waterfalls and wildflower meadows, the Pyrenees provides a wonderful backdrop for walking holidays in France. As well enjoying the most awe-inspiring panoramas from vantage points such as the Pic du Midi and Cirque de Gavarnie, you can visit Gaube Lake to see the mountain scenery reflecting on the surface. The Observatory of the Pic du Midi is also worth visiting to experience a moment beneath the stars. On your walks you’ll also encounter the area’s varied flora and fauna.