France offers extensive walking opportunities through its network of Grande Randonnée (GR) trails, covering over 60,000km of marked routes.

The country's diverse landscapes range from Alpine peaks to Mediterranean coastline, supported by excellent infrastructure and accommodation options.

  • GR 221 Big Trail Adventures

    Tour Du Mont Blanc 2026

    Alpine circumnavigation of Western Europe's highest peak
    170km / 10,200m
    Get your personalised itinerary

    Tour Du Mont Blanc 2026

    Running Icon 5 days → 14 days Laden Walker Icon
    Green Mountain Icon Green Mountain Icon Green Mountain Icon Yellow Mountain Icon Red Mountain Icon Tough

    Alpine circumnavigation of Western Europe's highest peak
    170km / 10,200m
    Get your personalised itinerary

    £199.00
    £199.00

Why Choose France for your Adventure?

France maintains one of Europe's most comprehensive walking trail networks, with clear waymarking and regular maintenance.

The GR system provides standardized route marking nationwide, while regional paths offer local connections.

Regular villages provide accommodation and supplies, making multi-day walks straightforward to plan.

Some of our favourite places...

  • The Alps

    High mountain walking with extensive trail networks and reliable infrastructure.

    Key features:

    • Tour du Mont Blanc
    • Chamonix valley trails
    • Mountain refuge system

  • Provence

    Mediterranean landscapes with historic paths connecting hilltop villages.

    Key features:

    • Luberon mountain trails
    • Verdon Gorge routes
    • Coastal path systems

  • Dordogne

    River valleys and medieval villages connected by ancient paths.

    Key features:

    • River trail network
    • Prehistoric cave sites
    • Castle-to-castle routes

  • Brittany

    Coastal paths and inland heath offering varied walking terrain.

    Key features:

    • GR34 coastal path
    • Island walking routes
    • Ancient forest trails
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Essential Information

Getting Around

France's transport system effectively connects walking regions.

Transport options:

  • High-speed rail network
  • Regional trains
  • Local buses
  • Mountain shuttles
  • Taxi services
  • Airport links

Accommodation

Walking regions offer diverse accommodation options.

Options include:

  • Mountain refuges
  • Gîtes d'étape
  • Hotels
  • Chambres d'hôtes
  • Camping sites
  • Village inns

Adventure Etiquette

  • Learn basic French phrases
  • Respect meal times
  • Book ahead in season
  • Follow trail markers
  • Support local businesses
  • Greet other walkers
  • Stay on marked paths
  • Respect private property

Expert Tips

  • Book popular refuges ahead
  • Carry sufficient water
  • Check seasonal access
  • Download offline maps
  • Learn trail marking system
  • Use IGN maps
  • Check weather forecasts
  • Carry emergency contacts

When should I go?

  • March to May

    - Mild temperatures

    - Spring flowers blooming

    - Variable mountain access

    - Quiet trails

    - Good for southern regions

    - Regular accommodation availability

  • June to August

    - Warm temperatures

    - All mountain paths open

    - Peak booking period

    - Full facilities available

    - Long daylight hours

    - High altitude relief

  • September to November

    - Pleasant temperatures

    - Autumn colours

    - Fewer visitors

    - Grape harvest season

    - Clear mountain days

    - Some facility closures

  • December to February

    - Snow in mountains

    - Mild Mediterranean coast

    - Limited mountain access

    - Quiet trails

    - Winter sports overlap

    - Short daylight hours

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Read our Guides

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  • Guide to Pacing

    Guide to Pacing

    Find out what sort of walker you are and how many days it will take to complete some of the best walking trails in Britain.

    Guide to Pacing

    Find out what sort of walker you are and how many days it will take to complete some of the best walking trails in Britain.

  • Accommodation-Booking-Guide Big Trail Adventures

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    Here is essential guidance on booking accommodation for your self-guided walkingadventures, following the itinerary provided by Big Trail Adventures. Please adhere closely to the recommendations below to ensure a smooth...

    Accommodation Booking Guide

    Here is essential guidance on booking accommodation for your self-guided walkingadventures, following the itinerary provided by Big Trail Adventures. Please adhere closely to the recommendations below to ensure a smooth...

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    Essential Packing Guide for Your Mountain Adven...

    Proper packing is fundamental to both your safety and enjoyment on the trail. Our approach combines years of mountain experience with practical wisdom to help you prepare for your journey....

    Essential Packing Guide for Your Mountain Adven...

    Proper packing is fundamental to both your safety and enjoyment on the trail. Our approach combines years of mountain experience with practical wisdom to help you prepare for your journey....

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