By choosing to discover or rediscover France on foot, you reduce your carbon footprint while supporting local tourism. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, France offers trails for every taste and skill level. Here is our selection of the 10 most beautiful hikes to tackle this summer.
What are France’s most beautiful hiking routes?
The GR20 in Corsica: Europe’s Toughest Trek
Known as one of Europe’s most demanding trails, the GR20 is not to be taken lightly. This long-distance trek runs across Corsica from north to south for about 180 km, offering sublime panoramas of mountains and forests, lakes and rivers. It is recommended for experienced, well-prepared hikers who are ready to push themselves. If that’s you, the beauty of the landscapes more than justifies the effort!
The Customs Trail in Brittany: An Ocean of Endless Views
The GR34, or the Customs Trail, winds along Brittany’s coastline for more than 2,000 km. The route is dotted with idyllic beaches, spectacular cliffs and charming fishing harbors. Fairly easy, this hike is ideal for admiring the beauty of the Atlantic!
The Crossing of the Alps on the GR5: Between Lakes and Mountains
This expansive trek will reveal the Alps in all their facets, from Lake Geneva to Nice. Between snow-capped peaks, verdant valleys and high-altitude lakes, this challenging hike is a real test, but the payoff is worth it.
The Tour du Mont-Blanc: A Breathtaking International Trek
The Tour du Mont-Blanc is a spectacular hike that takes you through France, Italy and Switzerland. The 170-kilometer trail offers unbeatable views of Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest peak. It is a demanding hike that requires solid fitness.
The Crossing of the Jura on the GR9: The Gentle Side of the Mountains
The GR9 traverses the Jura massif, offering varied and soothing landscapes: gentle mountains, dense forests, winding rivers and cascading waterfalls. This moderate-difficulty hike is ideal for those seeking to reconnect with nature, enjoy the simple pleasures of walking, and discover a region rich in history!
The Stevenson Path in the Cévennes: A Literary Journey
The GR70, better known as the Stevenson Path, is a 272-kilometer hike that traverses the Cévennes, from Auvergne to Lozère. This trail, made famous by writer Robert Louis Stevenson and his donkey Modestine, will reveal wild and pristine landscapes. Lovers of literature and nature will be delighted!
The GR10 in the Pyrenees: A Palette of Landscapes
The GR10 crosses the Pyrenees from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, offering a true mosaic of landscapes. From vertigo-inducing peaks to verdant valleys, dense forests to high-altitude lakes, this hike is a challenge for seasoned hikers, but the variety of landscapes it delivers makes it an unforgettable experience.
The Cliffs of Étretat in Normandy: A Postcard-Perfect Landscape
The Cliffs of Étretat offer an easy hike, but one of stunning beauty. The trail runs along the coast and provides spectacular views of white chalk cliffs and sea stacks that jut into the sea. It’s an ideal stroll for everyone, offering chances to photograph landscapes worthy of an impressionist painting.
The Beaufortain Circuit in Savoie: The Alpine Jewel
The Beaufortain Circuit is a 140-kilometer hike that takes you through an Alpine jewel, with majestic peaks, high-altitude lakes and lush pastures. Moderately challenging, it’s an immersive mountain experience, with a well-deserved break to savor the famous Beaufort cheese!
The Ochre Trail in Roussillon, Provence: A Palette of Colors
The Ochre Trail offers a unique experience. You’ll walk through the ochre quarries of Roussillon, discovering a color palette ranging from pale yellow to deep red. This easy hike is perfect for a family outing. Don’t forget your camera—the landscapes are truly photogenic.
France, with its diverse landscapes, offers a wealth of opportunities for hiking enthusiasts, no matter which region you choose to explore. By choosing to spend your vacation in France, you’re making an ecologically responsible choice and supporting the local tourism economy. So lace up your hiking boots and set off to discover France’s wonders this summer. Happy hiking!
