Hiking & Walking Holidays in France

Discover the legendary beauty of France on walking holidays, where breathtaking landscapes meet hassle-free planning, and local guides lead the way.

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France by foot: A walk through nature, culture, and culinary delights

From the jagged cliffs of Corsica to the towering peaks of Chamonix and the sun-drenched vineyards of Provence, France was made for walking. Walk the wild, windswept GR20 in Corsica, regarded as one of Europe’s most challenging long-distance hikes, or soak in the panoramic views of Mont Blanc as you traverse the classic routes in the Chamonix Valley.

In Provence, the gentle hills and vineyards provide a more leisurely escape, where you can wander through olive groves and picturesque villages, finishing the day with a glass of local wine and Provençal cuisine. Whether you’re after coastal trails or alpine ascents, France’s trails reveal its heart through the people, culture, and unforgettable food and wine. Each step, a journey through time and tradition.

Join us for a transformative experience in France, where adventure meets convenience and expert guidance.

Local guides lead the way

Book a trip with us, and you’ll be in the expert hands of local guides who know the land intimately. These seasoned leaders take you beyond the tourist paths, unveiling hidden trails, secret viewpoints, and the rich stories of each region.

Hassle-free planning, stress-free logistics

We handle all the planning and logistics, so you can focus on the journey, not the details—accommodations, meals, and transport are seamlessly arranged for a stress-free experience.

Trips for all skill levels – and desires

Whether you’re a seasoned trekker seeking a challenge or a casual foodie or history fan looking for an easy escape, we offer trips for all levels, tailored to your pace and interests.

The greatest walking & hiking destinations in France

Chamonix: Revered as the capital of alpinism, Chamonix captivates with scenic trails and stunning vistas of Mont Blanc. Hikers traverse vibrant alpine meadows and glacier-fed lakes, immersed in a landscape that is both breathtaking and invigorating.

Corsica: The rugged charm of Corsica unfolds along the famed GR20 trail, where each challenging step reveals dramatic coastlines, dense forests, and quaint mountain villages, showcasing the island’s raw beauty and untamed spirit.

Provence: In contrast, Provence offers leisurely exploration through enchanting scenery. Stroll amidst vast lavender fields and sun-drenched vineyards, discovering charming villages like Gordes and Roussillon that invite you to savor the region’s rich culture and culinary delights.

What do people think of Hiking & Walking Holidays in France?

Gary Needham

about Classic Tour du Mont Blanc Trek

Our hiking trip, Tour du Mont Blanc Highlights, was managed flawlessly. All of the many details including accommodation, transfers, meals, luggage transfers and stored luggage were executed perfectly so we could fully enjoy our hike. Our guide, Gideon, who was a last minute fill-in due to unforeseen circumstances, was fantastic. As an avid ultramarathoner, he has a real passion for the area and loves sharing his vast knowledge of the region. We had a wonderful trip and would not hesitate to book another trip through 57 Hours and Cloud 9 Adventures. In fact, we will soon begin our search for our next guided adventure.

Ludovic Botzung

about Women’s Hiking Tour of Chamonix & Mont Blanc

A great organization. No complaints. Marion gave very good advice. I recommend without any hesitation. Thank you.

Monica Zack

about Self-Guided Walker’s Haute Route: Chamonix—Zermatt

My daughter and I were so impressed with the guides from Nuyama. The routes they designed were absolutely fantastic. We easily navigated the gaia mapa and were able to add on additional hikes. They were very easy to reach via What’s App and extremely helpful. This was an incredible hiking experience. We would highly recommend using Nuyama again. Thank you!! Monica Zack

Dan Otto

about Tour du Mont Blanc Highlights Trek

My wife and I recently completed the TMB Highlights Tour with Cloud 9 and Tom as our guide. It was the best trip of our lives. Challenging, beautiful, rewarding. We are still thinking about it daily and I’m actually emotional thinking that’s it’s over. Cloud 9 took care of everything and made it all very easy to plan. Tom did a great job making sure everyone was doing well and guiding us to the best spots in the trails. I couldn’t recommend them more!

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Frequently asked questions about walking holidays in France

The ideal time for walking trips in France typically spans from late spring to early autumn, specifically from May to October.
- - Spring (April to June): This season offers mild temperatures and vibrant wildflowers, which makes it a delightful time for hiking in regions like Provence and the French Alps. However, keep in mind that higher altitudes may still bear snow, so be mindful of conditions on mountainous trails.
  - Summer (July to August): While summer means warm weather and breathtaking alpine hikes, it also attracts crowds to popular destinations like Chamonix. Early morning excursions can help you sidestep the heat and hustle and let you enjoy a more serene experience.
  - Autumn (September to October): Fall is particularly enchanting, as cooler temperatures and stunning autumn foliage create picturesque backdrops for exploration. Trails are less populated than in summer, with September showcasing the region’s vibrant colors, especially in lower-altitude areas like Provence.
While winter has its own allure for snowshoeing and winter trekking, late spring and early autumn truly offer the best conditions to immerse yourself in the diverse landscapes of France on guided & self-guided walking tours.
The highest hike in France, if you want to categorize it as such, is the ascent of Mont Blanc, soaring at 4,808 meters (15,774 ft) above sea level.

If you want to remove alpinism from the equation, the highest hike in France is the Grand Balcon Nord, a stunning trail in the Chamonix Valley that offers breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. This trek reaches an elevation of approximately 2,500 meters (8,200 ft).

Starting from the Aiguille du Midi or the Plan de l’Aiguille, this trail meanders along the mountain’s edge. While the trail is accessible to those with a good level of fitness, it still requires caution and preparation, mostly because of the weather conditions. The Grand Balcon Nord exemplifies the awe-inspiring beauty of the French Alps, which is why it’s a must-visit for hikers who love high-altitude adventures.
The hardest hike in France is probably the GR20, a trail that spans the length of Corsica from Calenzana in the north to Conca in the south.

This 180-kilometer (112-mile) route is known not only for its stunning scenery—ranging from rugged mountains to lush valleys—but also for its challenging terrain that tests even the most seasoned hikers.

With steep ascents, rocky paths, and scrambling sections, the GR20 demands not just physical endurance but also mental fortitude. Hikers can expect to navigate technical passages and unpredictable weather, which makes it essential to be well-prepared. The trail typically takes around 15 days to complete, with refuges providing respite along the way, though many opt for camping to fully immerse themselves in the wild.
The most popular hiking trail in France is the Tour du Mont Blanc, a stunning circuit that encircles Western Europe’s highest peak, Mont Blanc.

Spanning approximately 170 kilometers (106 miles), this iconic trail takes hikers through three countries: France, Italy, and Switzerland, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and charming mountain villages along the way.

Hikers are drawn to the Tour du Mont Blanc for its accessible yet diverse terrain, which caters to various skill levels. The trail typically takes around 10 to 12 days to complete, with well-marked paths and a range of accommodations, from cozy mountain huts to hotels, making it a favorite among trekkers. Highlights include the dramatic Aiguille du Midi, the serene Lac Blanc, and the picturesque town of Chamonix, providing ample opportunities to immerse yourself in your walking holidays in the French Alps.
Yes, you can hike the Tour du Mont Blanc as a beginner, but there are 6 important considerations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
1. Preparation: While the trail is well-marked and accessible, it’s essential to prepare adequately. Familiarize yourself with the route, its elevation changes, and potential weather conditions. Basic hiking experience, including navigating different terrains, will help.
2. Fitness level: The Tour du Mont Blanc involves significant elevation gain and loss, with daily hikes ranging from 5 to 8 hours. It’s advisable to train and build your endurance before attempting the hike. Regular walking or hiking on varied terrain will help you acclimate.
3. Pace yourself: Start with shorter sections of the trail if you’re unsure. The Tour du Mont Blanc can be broken into segments, allowing you to choose easier routes and gradually increase your distance.
4. Gear and safety: Invest in good hiking gear, including sturdy boots, appropriate clothing, and a reliable backpack. Carry essentials like water, snacks, a map, and a first-aid kit.
5. Guided options: Consider joining a guided tour. Many companies offer guided hikes tailored for beginners, providing support, local knowledge, and a safer experience. This can also alleviate concerns about navigation and logistics.