The allure of French landscapes, rich history, and exquisite cuisine can be experienced firsthand on a variety of delightful walking tours. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there are plenty of options to choose from. Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery, indulge in local delicacies, and discover the hidden gems of France. Let’s take a look at some of the most captivating walking tours in this enchanting country.
Tour du Mont Blanc
The Tour du Mont Blanc is a historic and breathtaking walk that showcases some of the most stunning vistas in France, if not the world. From the towering peaks and lush valleys to the magnificent glaciers, the alpine scenery is simply awe-inspiring. Imagine walking around Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe, while savoring the delicious alpine cuisine and immersing yourself in the beauty of the mountains. UTracks offers a range of Mont Blanc tours, including self-guided trips and small group guided tours.
Walking in the Dordogne
Explore the picturesque villages of the Dordogne on an immersive self-guided walking tour. With three tour options to choose from, you can discover the charming towns of Souillac, Domme, Sarlat, and more. One of the highlights of this tour is the opportunity to visit the many chateaux and castles along the banks of the Dordogne River. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of the pretty villages and indulge in the exquisite French foods available at the local restaurants and produce markets.
In Van Gogh’s Footsteps
Follow in the footsteps of the legendary artist, Van Gogh, on a gentle-paced walking tour through the beautiful Provence region. From the holy town of Avignon to the green fields of Arles, you’ll stay in charming medieval villages like Les Baux de Provence and dine in marvelous cafes and restaurants in Saint Remy de Provence. Witness the same breathtaking landscapes that inspired Van Gogh back in 1888, including fields, cypress trees, and ancient abbey ruins. It’s no wonder that walking In Van Gogh’s Footsteps is one of the most popular walking tours in France.
Walk Alsace’s Vineyard Trails & Mountains
Discover the lovely Alsace region, nestled between the Rhine River and the Vosges mountains. The influence of its proximity to Germany and Switzerland is evident in the local French culture. You can explore the exceptional Alsace Vineyard Trails and savor the region’s top-class wines and food. Alternatively, opt for the Alsace Mountains and Vineyards tour, which includes wine sampling in local caves and a chance to try the distinct Munster Cheese. These attractive walking tours offer a delightful journey through the picturesque Alsace region.
Vineyard Trails of the Loire
Hiking through the stunning Loire Valley is an experience not to be missed. The Vineyard Trails of the Loire tour allows you to immerse yourself in the history and beauty of the region. Admire the exquisite chateaux, walk alongside the Loire, Vienne, Cher, and Indre rivers, and indulge in the fine wines for which the Loire Valley is renowned. This 8-day tour offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, history, and gastronomy.
Bordeaux Vineyard Walk
For wine lovers, the Bordeaux Vineyard Walk is an absolute must. Immerse yourself in the fantastic wine regions of Bordeaux and sample the finest cuisine and wines the region has to offer. Experience the postcard-perfect landscapes, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality that make this area truly divine. Stay in charming guesthouses and chateaux hotels, explore UNESCO World Heritage valleys and villages, and create unforgettable memories on this 8-day walking tour.
Normandy on Foot
Normandy offers rolling hills, historic sites, and a warm atmosphere that can be best enjoyed on foot. Explore the fascinating trails of this region, discover the history of Omaha Beach and the sites of World War II, and marvel at the impressive cathedral and tapestry of William the Conqueror in Bayeux. Stay in welcoming guesthouses and B&Bs as you immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Normandy. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this captivating region.
The Crusader Trail – Cathar Castles Walk
Embark on a glorious walking tour along the Crusader Trail: Cathar Castles Walk. This ancient route in the Corbieres region offers a unique experience as you encounter the ruins of Cathar castles, remnants of medieval villages, and the beginning of the Pyrenean mountain chain. Highlights include exploring Puilaurens Castle, hiking to the Galamus Gorges, and immersing yourself in the welcoming nature of the local people. This tour promises a journey filled with history and natural beauty.
Stevenson’s Trail: The Cevennes
For a taste of the simplicity and beauty of the French countryside, embark on the iconic Stevenson’s Trail. Named after the Scottish writer, Robert Louis Stevenson, who first walked this route in 1878, this trail takes you through the stunning Cevennes National Park and past a hilly region of extinct volcanoes near Le Puy en Velay. Follow the waymarkers adorned with the Scottish flag, in honor of Stevenson, and immerse yourself in the flora, fauna, and cultural richness of this breathtaking region.
French Way of St James
For a truly unforgettable journey, take part in the world-famous Camino pilgrimage through France. The French Way of St James is often regarded as the most beautiful of all the Camino walks. This 40-day trail is broken into smaller, more manageable sections, beginning in Le Puy en Velay and continuing through breathtaking French scenery before reaching St Jean Pied de Port. Choose from self-guided walks or food lover’s journeys and experience the spiritual and natural splendor of this quintessential French walk.
In conclusion, France offers a multitude of captivating walking tours that allow you to immerse yourself in its natural beauty, rich history, and exquisite cuisine. Whether you’re strolling through picturesque vineyards, exploring medieval villages, or following in the footsteps of great artists, each step reveals a new treasure waiting to be discovered. So lace up your walking shoes, embrace the French way of life, and embark on an unforgettable journey through this enchanting country.
For more information and to browse our full range of walking tours in France, visit our website. And remember to join UTracks’ Active Travel Community for the latest updates and inspiration for your next adventure.
View all of UTracks’ walking tours in Europe.
