Top 8 Hiking Trails in France

Exploring the trails in France is truly a breathtaking experience.

From majestic alpine heights to vibrant lavender fields and winding rivers plunging into deep gorges, France offers a path for every mood and skill level.

Our selection of eight favorite hikes in France spans everything from lofty peaks to the sun-drenched, tranquil landscapes of Provence and the rugged, surf-battered shores of the Basque Country. It's time to lace up your hiking boots and explore the trails.

1. Sentier du Littoral, French Basque Region

Premier coastal day hike

25km (15.5 miles), 5–6 hours, easy

With crashing Atlantic waves, rugged coves, lush countryside draped in maquis (scrub), and quaint fishing villages nestled beneath towering cliffs, this coastal hike in the French Basque Region is truly breathtaking. The Sentier du Littoral winds its way between the Pyrenees and the Bay of Biscay, offering one stunning coastal vista after another from Bidart to Hendaye, passing through Saint-Jean-de-Luz.

Highlights abound: stunning views of the Bay of Biscay from Colline de Cenitz, the vibrant atmosphere of St-Jean de Luz, Socoa's impressive 17th-century fort, and the striking cliffs of the Corniche. Trekging from north to south reveals captivating sights of the Jaizkibel mountain range, the granite peaks of Les Trois Couronnes, and the 905m (2969ft) summit of La Rhune, adorned with Neolithic dolmens and stone circles. While the trail is straightforward, especially in summer, remember to bring plenty of sunscreen and water, and aim for morning or late afternoon hikes.

2. Chemin de Stevenson, Cévennes

Ideal hike for rural romance

270km (169 miles), 2 weeks, moderate

This hike is a heartfelt tribute to Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson, who journeyed through the Cévennes in 1878 with his steadfast donkey, Modestine. It stands as one of France’s most iconic and enchanting trails. You can explore Stevenson’s adventure in Travels with a Donkey in the Cévennes.

The path embodies the idyllic French countryside, stretching from the forests of the Cévennes over the rugged granite of the Mont Lozère massif into the gently rolling fields and valleys of Gévaudan and Velay. Hikers traverse from Le Puy-en-Velay to Alès, meandering through wooded ravines and golden cornfields, passing ancient châteaux and quaint stone hamlets, while soaking in the sounds of cicadas and distant cowbells.

As fiery sunsets give way to evenings spent camping or staying in cozy rural gîtes (guesthouses), the landscape unfolds like a dramatic crescendo, culminating in the UNESCO-listed Parc National des Cévennes. This diverse park, rich with beech, oak, and sweet chestnut forests, features gorges, cliffs, and rivers, and is home to wildlife such as beavers, otters, roe deer, and golden eagles.

A few ridge climbs transform what could be a leisurely walk into a more demanding hike, so be prepared. Completing the entire route takes about two weeks, or you can opt for one of the shorter sections.

3. Lac Blanc, Chamonix

Ideal hike for mountain enthusiasts

11km (7 miles), 5–6 hours, challenging

For hikers who believe it’s unfair to gaze upon one of Europe’s most magnificent mountains without exerting themselves, this trek from Argentière near Chamonix to the stunning Lac Blanc is perfect for you.

The journey begins with a steep ascent from Tré-le-Champ in Argentière, involving over 1000m (3280ft) of rocky climbs and a few nerve-wracking fixed ladders. The effort pays off, as the Lacs des Chéserys offer a stunning preview of the sapphire-blue Lac Blanc, framed by breathtaking views of 4808m (15,774ft) Mont Blanc and the Aiguille du Midi.

At these rugged altitudes, wildlife flourishes, so keep an eye out for mouflon, golden eagles, and ibex. The highlight is dining at – or ideally spending the night in – the Refuge du Lac Blanc, situated at 2352m (7717ft). You’ll need a head for heights, a good fitness level, and perfect timing, as this is true Alpine terrain. The trail is accessible only from mid-June to September; outside this window, expect snow, fittingly reflecting its name – White Lake.

4. GR20, Corsica

Ideal hike for those seeking a true challenge

180km (112 miles), 2 weeks, challenging

Among the countless miles of hiking trails winding through France, the GR20 in Corsica stands out as the most legendary. This two-week, rugged adventure is a relentless test for even the most seasoned hiker, and it’s surprising that such a daunting trek exists on a Mediterranean island known for its beachgoers.

Yet, it is undeniably stunning. Spanning the island from Calenzana to Conca, north of Porto Vecchio, it offers endless excitement, showcasing everything from steep ravines to glacial lakes, granite cliffs to wind-swept craters, and boggy peatlands to snowy summits and lush forests.

This trail is recognized as one of the toughest in Europe, featuring rugged terrain with steep ascents, exposed scrambles, and tricky crossings.

Some preparation is essential, as you'll need to source water from springs and stay in mountain refuges. While wild camping is officially banned, being discreet might allow for some leniency, as long as you leave by sunrise. The entire trek takes two weeks; it will likely test your limits, but the memories will last a lifetime.

5. Tour du Mont Blanc, France, Switzerland, Italy

Best long-distance trekking experience

180km (112 miles), 10–14 Days, moderate-challenging

The immensely popular Tour du Mont Blanc takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in France, Switzerland, and Italy, circling the rugged, snow-capped peaks of the Mont Blanc massif. A true test of endurance, the trail ascends to lofty passes, skirts glaciers and wild rivers, and leads hikers into secluded valleys and meadows alive with wildflowers.

Experience nights camping beneath a canopy of stars or enjoying a hearty meal at a cozy mountain hut. You'll also cherish vibrant sunrises and sunsets, along with opportunities to spot wildlife that thrives at high altitudes, including marmots, chamois, and ibex.

The tour is open from late June to early September, but be ready for unpredictable weather; conditions can change rapidly. While technical gear (like crampons and ropes) isn’t necessary, bring warm clothing, waterproofs, and sturdy boots.

Beginning and ending in Les Houches near Chamonix, the trail is best tackled in a clockwise direction to help acclimatize for the steeper climbs later on. Planning is crucial, as mountain huts fill up months in advance.

6. Sentier des Ocres, Roussillon

Ideal family-friendly hike in Provence

1.5km (0.9 miles), 1 hour, easy

With its dramatically eroded rock formations showcasing a spectrum of reds from soft pink to rusty terracotta, this canyon in Roussillon, Provence, evokes the spirit of the American Wild West, especially under a clear blue sky.

Once a site for ochre mining, this former quarry now serves as a stunning backdrop for a short but breathtaking circular trail that winds through a landscape reminiscent of a desert, featuring cliffs, ridges, and groves of chestnut and pine.

This short hike is perfect for families and includes informative panels about local flora and fauna. Be sure to wear sturdy walking shoes and avoid white clothing, as it can get quite dusty. The best time to walk the route is from mid-February to December.

7. Puy de Dôme, Massif Central

Top choice for a volcano hike

6km (3.7 miles), 1½ hours, moderate

The midsection of France, particularly Auvergne, is often overlooked by hikers, yet its long-extinct volcanoes offer both geological wonders and stunning views. These ancient formations, which last erupted over 7000 years ago, still shape the landscape, as lush green countryside transitions into granite plateaus and valleys carved by glaciers.

Here lies the expansive Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne, which includes the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Chaîne des Puys, a 40km (25-mile) chain of cinder cones and lava domes. The highlight is the impressive Puy de Dôme, rising to 1465m (4806ft).

While many opt for the rack railway to reach the summit, dedicated hikers can savor the tranquility of the Chemin de Muletiers: a short, steep ancient mule path that winds its way up wooden steps and along paths adorned with wildflowers. This route has been traversed for centuries, originally taken by pilgrims heading to the now-ruined Gallo-Roman Temple de Mercure at the top.

8. Blanc-Martel Trail, Gorges du Verdon

Top choice for a canyon hike

16km (10 miles), 6–7 hours, moderate

The Gorges du Verdon stands as one of France's most breathtaking natural marvels, where steep limestone cliffs soar above the strikingly turquoise Verdon River as it carves its path through the plateau toward the Alps. In the serene hush of early morning, the canyon feels entirely tranquil, flanked by rock walls that reach up to 700m (2297ft). If you listen closely, you might catch the cry of a golden eagle soaring overhead.

While the canyon can be enjoyed from numerous viewpoints and picnic areas, the best way to experience the Verdon is by hiking the Blanc-Martel Trail. This path winds through the gorge and descends to the river, later skirting along trails etched into the canyon walls, occasionally dipping into tunnels (don’t forget a torch), crossing bridges, or navigating wooden steps. It’s a full-day adventure with some challenging ascents and descents along the way.

Since the hike is point-to-point, you'll need to plan your transport. Starting at Chalet de la Maline in La Palud-sur-Verdon and finishing at Point Sublime is ideal, where you can catch a shuttle bus back to your starting point. The gorge can become scorching in summer, so an early start is wise, along with ample sunscreen and water.