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.

  • Tour Du Mont Blanc

    Tour Du Mont Blanc

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

    Tour Du Mont Blanc

    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

    From £160.00 GBP
    From £160.00 GBP

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
1 4

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

1 4

Read our Guides

View all
  • Accommodation Booking Guide

    Accommodation Booking Guide

    Here is essential guidance on booking accommodation for your self-guided walking and cycling adventures, following the itinerary provided by Big Trail Adventures. Please adhere closely to the recommendations below to...

    Accommodation Booking Guide

    Here is essential guidance on booking accommodation for your self-guided walking and cycling adventures, following the itinerary provided by Big Trail Adventures. Please adhere closely to the recommendations below to...

  • Essential Packing Guide for Your Mountain Adventure

    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....

  • What to Eat on a Multi-Day Trek: Nutrition for Endurance and Recovery

    What to Eat on a Multi-Day Trek: Nutrition for ...

    Fuel your body properly on a multi-day trek to help you maintain energy, recover faster, and enjoy your adventure. This guide covers what to eat before, during, and after your...

    What to Eat on a Multi-Day Trek: Nutrition for ...

    Fuel your body properly on a multi-day trek to help you maintain energy, recover faster, and enjoy your adventure. This guide covers what to eat before, during, and after your...

1 3
View all