Top Hiking Trails in France

Hiking in France is nothing short of glorious. From soaring alpine peaks to billowing lavender fields and azure rivers corkscrewing down into deep canyons, France has a trail to match every mood, moment and ability.

Our eight favorite French hikes take in everything from cloud-grazing peaks to Provence’s drowsy, sun-kissed countryside and the wave-hammered beaches of the Basque Country. It’s time to sling on your hiking boots and hit the trails.

1. Sentier du Littoral, French Basque Country

Best Coastal Day Hike

25 km (15.5 miles), 5–6 hours, easy

Tumbling Atlantic waves, rocky coves, countryside blanketed in maquis (scrub), and fishing villages snuggled below high cliffs provide a coastal stunner of a day hike in the French Basque Country. The Sentier du Littoral delivers one heart-lifting coastal view after another as it strides from Bidart to Hendaye via Saint-Jean-de-Luz.

• Stunning views of the Bay of Biscay from Colline de Cenitz.
• The cheerful seaside buzz of St-Jean de Luz.
• Chunky 17th-century fort at Socoa.
• Picturesque cliffs of the Corniche.
• Arresting sights of the Jaizkibel mountain range and the peak of La Rhune.

Technically, the hike is a breeze, but in summer, pack plenty of sunscreen and water, and aim to walk in the early morning or late afternoon.

2. Chemin de Stevenson, Cévennes

Best Hike for Rural Romance

270 km (169 miles), 2 weeks, moderate

A love letter to Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson, the Chemin de Stevenson is one of France’s most classic and captivating hikes. The route is the rural French dream, running from the forests of the Cévennes across the ragged granite Mont Lozère massif into the rolling farmland and valleys of Gévaudan and Velay.

Hikers weave from Le Puy-en-Velay to Alès through forested ravines and rolling cornfields, passing ruined châteaux and crossing sunbaked hillsides. The scenic beauty peaks in the UNESCO-listed Parc National des Cévennes, known for its rich biodiversity.

3. Lac Blanc, Chamonix

Best Hike for Mountain Fiends

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

If you’re the kind of hiker who seeks to conquer one of Europe’s most impressive mountains, this hike from Argentiène near Chamonix to jewel-like Lac Blanc is for you. It’s a challenging ascent but well worth the effort for the out-of-this-world views of Mont Blanc and Aiguille du Midi.

Wildlife thrives here, so look out for mouflon, golden eagles, and ibex. Enjoy a meal or an overnight stay at the Refuge du Lac Blanc, perched at 2352m (7717ft). The trail is only accessible from late June through September.

4. GR20, Corsica

Best Hike for Sheer Challenge

180 km (112 miles), 2 weeks, challenging

The GR20 in Corsica is regarded as one of Europe’s toughest hiking trails. This two-week hike traverses the island, revealing a stunning array of landscapes from deep ravines to glacial lakes and granite crags. Proper planning is essential, as wild camping is not permitted, but you will find mountain refuges along the way.

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

Best Long-Distance Hike

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

The Tour du Mont Blanc is immensely popular and takes you through breathtaking scenery as it circumnavigates the Mont Blanc massif. Expect to experience stunning views, a variety of wildlife, and changing weather conditions.

Your hiking adventure begins and ends in Les Houches, and it is best to hike clockwise to acclimatize for the tougher climbs.

6. Sentier des Ocres, Roussillon

Best Hike in Provence for Families

1.5 km (0.9 miles), 1 hour, easy

This stunning canyon with eroded rock formations makes a perfect short hike for families. The ochre cliffs create vibrant colors, and information panels along the trail enhance the educational experience.

7. Puy de Dôme, Massif Central

Best Volcano Hike

6 km (3.7 miles), 1½ hours, moderate

The Puy de Dôme is a highlight in the Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d’Auvergne. The peaceful Chemin de Muletiers trail leads hikers to the summit, offering an opportunity to explore ancient pilgrimage routes.

8. Blanc-Martel Trail, Gorges du Verdon

Best Canyon Hike

16 km (10 miles), 6–7 hours, moderate

Experience one of France’s most stirring natural wonders along the Blanc-Martel Trail. This hike navigates through towering limestone cliffs and reveals spectacular views of the Verdon River. Plan your journey to avoid the heat of the summer.

This article may inspire your next hiking adventure in France. Embrace the beauty of the landscapes and the thrill of exploration!