Choose From Our Wonderful Range of Walking Holidays in France
As specialists of French walking holidays, World Walks can offer a self-guided walking holiday to suit every preference, from the warm and rural South of France to the cooler, urban North. France is a diverse and beautiful country known for its colourful countryside, rich history and delicious food. World Walk’s range of walking tours in France has something to suit everyone and is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the variety that France has to offer.
Pine forests, clear rivers, deep gorges, rolling farmland, majestic mountains and watercolour coasts define the varied and picturesque French landscape. Exploring the country on one of our walking holidays in France offers you the chance to step back in time as you follow pilgrim’s trails to medieval ruins on The Pilgrim Route of St James or to marvel at the Pyrenees and Alpine mountain ranges that border the country on The Pyrenees. Enjoy a walking holiday from mountains to Sea holiday or, for you wine lovers, take a self-guided walking holiday through the Burgundy region on one our Vineyard Walking Tours. There is so much to see on a walking holiday in France!
France is a diverse and beautiful country renowned for its colourful countryside, rich history, and delicious food. With landscapes defined by pine forests, clear rivers, deep gorges, rolling farmland, majestic mountains, and watercolour coasts, there is a walking holiday to suit every preference. Here are five of our most popular regions to explore on foot:
1. Burgundy
Perfect for wine lovers and those looking for a gentle stroll, Burgundy offers idyllic self-guided walking tours through some of France’s most famous vineyards. Itineraries such as Dijon to Beaune or the Wine Trails of Burgundy are typically graded as “Easy to Moderate” and provide a relaxing way to combine beautiful scenery with world-class gastronomy.
2. Provence and the Riviera
Experience the warm, rural charm of the South of France with walks through the sun-drenched landscapes of Provence or along the glamorous Riviera Coast. Routes like The Hilltop Villages of Northern Provence and Menton to Nice generally offer a “Moderate” challenge, taking you through quintessential Mediterranean scenery.
3. The Dordogne
Famous for its châteaux, prehistoric caves, and picturesque mediaeval towns, the Dordogne is a fantastic destination for a walking holiday. We offer options ranging from standard self-guided tours to our Dordogne in Luxury packages, which allow you to explore this lush, historical region with an “Easy to Moderate” level of walking.
4. The Pyrenees and The Alps
For those seeking a more mountainous landscape, the Pyrenees form a stunning natural border with Spain. You can marvel at the dramatic peaks on our Mountains to Sea or Catalan Shore routes. Alternatively, head further inland to experience the rugged beauty of the Auvergne Volcanos or the Tarn & Jonte Gorges for a more strenuous challenge.
5. Brittany and Normandy
If you prefer the cooler, maritime climate of the North, the dramatic coastlines of Brittany and Normandy are spectacular. Follow the coastal paths along Brittany’s Emerald Coast or the Cote de Granit Rose, or explore the historical Cotentin Coast in Normandy. These routes typically offer “Easy to Moderate” to “Moderate” walking against a backdrop of beautiful coastal vistas.
What is the best time of year for a walking holiday in France?
Spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) are the ideal seasons. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, and the trails are quieter. July and August can be exceptionally hot, particularly in southern regions like Provence, and often coincide with busy domestic holiday periods.
Are the walking trails in France well-marked and easy to follow?
Yes, France boasts an outstanding network of walking trails, such as the national Grande Randonnée (GR) routes. To make navigation as straightforward as possible, World Walks provides you with a materials pack (sent no later than two weeks before departure) containing detailed route instructions, maps, and GPS tracks.
How difficult are the walking routes in the French Alps compared to Provence?
The French Alps feature challenging, high-altitude alpine terrain with steep ascents, rocky paths, and significant daily elevation gains. In contrast, our walking routes in Provence offer a much gentler pace, taking you from village to village, through vineyards and olive groves, from one hilltop settlement to the next.
Do I need to carry my own luggage between hotels on a self-guided tour?
Not at all. On all World Walks self-guided tours, we arrange for a local driver to collect your bags from your accommodation each morning and deliver them to your next destination. You only need to carry a small rucksack or daypack with your daily essentials, such as water, snacks, and waterproofs.
What should I do if I get lost or need assistance during my walk?
For minor problems, you should contact our local representatives. Their contact numbers will be provided in your tour materials pack. While they cannot always answer calls immediately, if you leave a message, they will get back in touch with you. In the event of a serious emergency, you should call the local emergency services just as you would at home (these numbers will also be provided in your pack).
Are your French walking tours suitable for solo travellers?
Absolutely. World Walks offers self-guided itineraries that are perfect for solo walkers, putting you in complete control while taking the stress out of logistics. We provide all the route notes, luggage transfers, and local support you need to walk confidently on your own. Please note that a single supplement will apply, though we always aim to keep this cost as low as possible.
What kind of footwear is recommended for the varied terrain in France?
For mountainous regions like the Alps or Pyrenees, sturdy, waterproof walking boots with good ankle support and a robust sole are essential. For gentler regions like the Loire Valley, Brittany, or our vineyard walks, a high-quality pair of trail running shoes or lightweight walking shoes will suffice. Always ensure your footwear is thoroughly broken-in before your holiday.
Are meals included in the tour package, or should I budget for dining out?
This varies by itinerary, but breakfast is typically included at each stay to ensure you are properly fuelled for the day. While our guided walking holidays may include group dinners, our self-guided tours often leave your evenings free, giving you the flexibility to discover local bistros and restaurants at your own pace. Lunches are generally not included, making it perfect for picking up fresh produce for a picnic en route.
How many miles or kilometres will I typically walk each day?
Daily distances vary depending on your chosen holiday, but typically range from 8 to 15 miles (12 to 24 kilometres). When you look at the grading for a World Walks holiday (Easy, Moderate, Tough, or Challenging), keep in mind that a grade like ‘Easy’ generally refers to the type of terrain rather than the distance travelled. Even on ‘Easy’ routes, distances can sometimes still be quite long, so do check the itinerary section of your specific holiday.
Is a high level of fitness required for “moderate” graded walks?
You do not need to be an elite athlete, but a good baseline of everyday fitness is highly recommended. Because World Walks’ grading system relies heavily on the ruggedness and gradient of the terrain, a “Moderate” walk will involve undulating paths and occasional steep sections over 4 to 6 hours a day. We recommend getting in some regular weekend walks in the months leading up to your departure to prepare your legs and test your gear.
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