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Walking Holidays in France

Our walking holidays in France take in the best of the world's most-visited country. With such a vast variety of landscapes, including mountainous terrain, coastal spots, and serene countryside, it's a walking enthusiast's dream. Throw the sublime French cuisine into the mix and you have the perfect holiday.

Below you'll find a wide selection of walking holidays in France, covering its most scenic regions. From Brittany's Emerald Coast to the villages of the Luberon in Provence, as well as the Dordogne, the Loire Valley, the Alps, Burgundy, and Alsace, we offer tantalising trips to cater for every personal taste and level of ability.

Thanks to our varied walking tours, it means couples, families, and solo travellers can make the most of our walking holidays in France. Our group sizes are kept small too, to ensure you get the most out of the experience, while allowing you to get to know your guide and group. This also allows us to hand-pick guest houses that wouldn't be able to accommodate larger groups.

Using a combination of Headwater employees and local partners, our French walking holidays are designed to help you get the most out of your adventure. We craft detailed itineraries, hand-select characterful accommodation, and offer secure, yet flexible booking options. For more information ahead of your trip, check out our blog.

Whatever you're looking for in a walking holiday in France, find it with Headwater.

Where can you go walking in France?

Here's a handful of our top French walking holiday locations.

Mont Blanc

If you're seeking out mountainous landscapes complete with mirrored lakes and huge glaciers, Mont Blanc is the place for you. Get ready for 360-degree views over the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps.

Burgundy

Burgundy is home to some of the finest vineyards France has to offer. As you'd expect, this historical region offers a relaxed, gentler French walking holiday option, with opportunity to learn about the country's unsurpassed wine culture, from vine to glass.

The Pyrenees

French Pyrenees walking holidays are a must for your hiking bucket list. The Pyrenees promise everything from dramatic peaks to plunging waterfalls and is home to the UNESCO site of the Cirque de Gavarnie.

Normandy

This coastal area of France has a rich history, including the D-Day landing beaches, and it's dotted with delightful half-timbered houses. You'll pass through stunning rural landscapes and cultural destinations, such as art galleries, in equal measure.

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Basque Country : From the Mountains to the Ocean
France: The Pyrenees

Basque Country : From the Mountains to the Ocean

Journey from the peaks of the Pyrenees to the shores of the Atlantic encountering the charm of the Basque countryside with every step.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW06BC
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration6 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2150per person, tour only
  • NEW FOR 2024  
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfast and 5 evening meals
  • Route notes provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Normandy Walk from Deauville to Bayeux - Deluxe
France: Normandy

Normandy Walk from Deauville to Bayeux - Deluxe

Facing the sea with feet in the sand, take a breath and experience the authentic Normandy with historical places including D-Day landing beaches, the generous cuisine, orchards and half-timbered houses.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07NS
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration7 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2450per person, tour only
  • NEW FOR 2024  
  • All accommodation
  • All continental breakfast
  • Route notes provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Chateaux Of The Loire Walk
France: The Loire

Chateaux Of The Loire Walk

This gentle hotel-to-hotel walking holiday is a fabulous introduction to the Loire Valley. Your route will lead you from a chateau to another including the most famous ones such as Blois, Chambord, Cheverny, Chenonceau and Amboise. Warm, friendly hotels and great regional cuisine.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07LO
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration7 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2675per person, tour only

  • 6 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfast and 2 evening meals
  • Navigation app provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
North Corsican Wonders Between Coast and Mountains
France: Corsica

North Corsican Wonders Between Coast and Mountains

From Bastia to Calvi, discover the north coast with stunning landscapes, paradise beaches, heritage and rich tradition.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07CI
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration7 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2299per person, tour only
  • All accommodation
  • All Breakfasts and 1 picnic lunch
  • Route notes provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Coastal Walking in Brittany
France: Brittany

Coastal Walking in Brittany

A walk on the Brittany coastline from St Malo to the World Wonder Mont St Michel. Walk the famous custom's path and enjoy bird watching and exceptional views. This path offers anyone who walks it a large breath of fresh ocean air and stunning sea views.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW06BR
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration6 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2135per person, tour only
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfast and 2 evening meal
  • Route notes provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Landscapes of the Luberon Walk
France: Alsace

Landscapes of the Luberon Walk

Varied walking in the glorious Luberon National Park - inspiration for generations of poets, painters and writers. Wander through vineyards and olive groves to perched medieval villages and stay in delightful hotels, full of character along the way.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW08PL
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration8 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2765per person, tour only

  • 36 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All continental breakfasts and 4 evening meals
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Dordogne River Walk
France: The Dordogne

Dordogne River Walk

This walking holiday explores the limestone cliffs, wooded valleys and beautiful medieval villages that are so unique to France's Dordogne region. World famous prehistoric sites and fine local wines add a further dimension to a stay here.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW08DO
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration8 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2705per person, tour only

  • 26 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All continental breakfasts and 5 evening meals
  • Route notes provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walking The Vineyards of Champagne
France: Champagne

Walking The Vineyards of Champagne

explore and taste every day what is hidden behind the bubbles that help us toast good news. Pop the cork and let the bubbles speak for themselves.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW04CH
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration4 nights, single centre
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$1700per person, tour only
  • NEW FOR 2024  
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Route notes provided
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Mont Blanc Walks – Short Break
France: Mont Blanc

Mont Blanc Walks – Short Break

This short break features the famous trails of Mont Blanc where we’ve selected some of the most beautiful sections around this iconic mountain. You’ll be based in the bustling adventure hub of Chamonix, surrounded by mountaineers with an exciting atmosphere.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW04MT
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration4 nights, single centre
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$1700per person, tour only
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Chateaux Of The Loire Walk - Short Break
France: The Loire

Chateaux Of The Loire Walk - Short Break

This gentle hotel-to-hotel short break walking holiday is a fabulous introduction to the Loire Valley. Your route will lead you from a chateau to another including the most famous ones such as Blois, Chambord, Cheverny, Chenonceau and Amboise. Warm, friendly hotels and great regional cuisine.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW04LO
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration4 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$1820per person, tour only
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfast and 1 evening meals
  • Navigation app provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Villages & Vineyards of Alsace- Short Break
France: Alsace

Villages & Vineyards of Alsace- Short Break

During a short break, discover some of the most beautiful villages in France; Colmar, Kaysersberg and Riquewihr, with their brightly-coloured, half-timbered buildings decked with window boxes spilling with geraniums and traditional ornamental features.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW04AS
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration4 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$1835per person, tour only
  • NEW FOR 2024  
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfast and 3 evening meals
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walking in Burgundy’s Vineyards - Short Break
France: Burgundy

Walking in Burgundy’s Vineyards - Short Break

In Burgundy, enjoying a good meal is more than a tradition this is the culture! Savour Burgundy's 'Art de Vivre' through its great vineyards and the numerous gourmet products that you will taste along your route. Get your taste buds ready to be delighted.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW04BN
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration4 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$1850per person, tour only
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfast and 3 evening meals
  • Route notes provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walking The Vineyards of Champagne - Deluxe
France: Champagne

Walking The Vineyards of Champagne - Deluxe

explore and taste every day what is hidden behind the bubbles that help us toast good news. Pop the cork and let the bubbles speak for themselves.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW04CU
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration4 nights, single centre
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$1985per person, tour only
  • NEW FOR 2024  
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Route notes provided
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Normandy Walk from Deauville to Bayeux
France: Normandy

Normandy Walk from Deauville to Bayeux

Facing the sea with feet in the sand, take a breath and experience the authentic Normandy with historical places including D-Day landing beaches, the generous cuisine, orchards and half-timbered houses.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07NM
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration7 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2135per person, tour only

  • 5 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All continental breakfast
  • Route notes provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Mont Blanc Walks – Short Break Premium
France: Mont Blanc

Mont Blanc Walks – Short Break Premium

This short break features the famous trails of Mont Blanc where we’ve selected some of the most beautiful sections around this iconic mountain. You’ll be based in the bustling adventure hub of Chamonix, surrounded by mountaineers with an exciting atmosphere.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW04MP
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration4 nights, single centre
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2020per person, tour only
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walking in the Vineyards of Bordeaux and Medoc
France: Bordeaux

Walking in the Vineyards of Bordeaux and Medoc

Walk at your own pace and let your feet guide you on a journey that combines lush countryside views and delectable tastings.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW06BO
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration6 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2360per person, tour only
  • NEW FOR 2024  
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts and 1 evening meal
  • Route notes provided
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Villages & Vineyards of Alsace
France: Alsace

Villages & Vineyards of Alsace

Discover some of the most beautiful villages in France; Colmar, Kaysersberg and Riquewihr, with their brightly-coloured, half-timbered buildings decked with window boxes spilling with geraniums and traditional ornamental features.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW06AS
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration6 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2450per person, tour only

  • 4 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfast and 5 evening meals
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walking in Burgundy’s Vineyards
France: Burgundy

Walking in Burgundy’s Vineyards

In Burgundy, enjoying a good meal is more than a tradition this is the culture! Savour Burgundy's 'Art de Vivre' through its great vineyards and the numerous local products that you will taste along your route. Get your taste buds ready to be delighted.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW06BN
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration6 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2450per person, tour only

  • 6 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfast and 3 evening meals
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walking the Best of the High Pyrenees
France: The Pyrenees

Walking the Best of the High Pyrenees

All the top highlights of the High Pyrenees - turquoise lakes, innumerable waterfalls, and the UNESCO Site of the Cirque du Gavarnie. Great walking on ancient footpaths, regional cuisine, and an unforgettable visit at the Summit Observatory of the Pic du Midi.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07PR
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration7 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2825per person, tour only
  • NEW FOR 2024  
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts and evening meals
  • Route notes provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walking Tour du Mont Blanc
France: Mont Blanc

Walking Tour du Mont Blanc

An immersive adventure along the famous trails of Mont Blanc, we’ve selected the most outstanding sections around this iconic mountain. You’ll stay in the bustling adventure hub of Chamonix before crossing the Italian border into the classic resort of Courmayeur.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07MT
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration7 nights, twin centre
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2975per person, tour only
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walking Tour du Mont Blanc - Premium
France: Mont Blanc

Walking Tour du Mont Blanc - Premium

An immersive adventure along the famous trails of Mont Blanc, we’ve selected the most outstanding sections around this iconic mountain. These historic paths offer dramatic panorama, deep mountain lakes, and spectacular snow-capped summits. You’ll stay in the bustling adventure hub of Chamonix before crossing the Italian border into the classic resort of Courmayeur.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07MP
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided walking
  • Duration7 nights, twin centre
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$3200per person, tour only
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Walks & Gardens of the French Riviera
France: The French Riviera

Walks & Gardens of the French Riviera

Discover the hidden secrets of the French Riviera, plus some of the familiar sights too, on this guided walking week based at a charming 3-star hotel just a stone's throw from the beach. Picturesque walks, beautiful views and visits to the Riviera's magnificent Caps.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07FR
  • Holiday typeGuided walking
  • Duration7 nights, single centre
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2625per person, tour only
  • All breakfasts All accommodation All transport and listed activities Tour leader throughout Group arrival and departure transfers available
Mont Blanc Highlights
France: Mont Blanc

Mont Blanc Highlights

The circuit of Mont Blanc is one of the finest walking routes in the Alps. It is, in reality, a series of paths linking the seven valleys that surround the highest mountain in Western Europe, Mont Blanc. It normally takes a fortnight to complete the whole circuit, but for those with less time this one-week tour takes in the most outstanding sections from one accommodation base.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeW07MB
  • Holiday typeGuided walking
  • Duration7 nights, single centre
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2700per person, tour only
  • All breakfasts, five picnic lunches, six home-cooked dinners Afternoon tea and cake on walking days All accommodation All transport and listed activities Tour leader throughout Group arrival and departure transfers available
Dordogne Activities
France: The Dordogne

Dordogne Activities

Combine three of our exciting holidays to experience the ultimate activity holiday in the Dordogne. Two days of safe, leisurely canoeing with a choice of easy walking or cycling on the other days.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeM08DO
  • Holiday typeMulti activity holiday
  • Duration8 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2780per person, tour only

  • 29 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All continental breakfasts and 5 evening meals
  • Bike hire included
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)

    Walking holidays in France

    Overall customer rating, based on 126 reviews

Frequently asked questions

What can I expect from my walking holiday to France?

A walking holiday in France is, at heart, an active adventure. This means you'll be up and about, clocking up your step count each day as you take in sensational surroundings. From the coastal area of Brittany to the riverside of The Dordogne, the mountainous terrain of Mont Blanc to the vineyards and olive groves of Provence, you're truly spoilt for choice when it comes to French walking holidays.

If you opt for a guided walking holiday, you'll have plenty of chance to socialise and meet new people, whereas, if you opt for a solo trip, you'll be able to take things at your own pace and truly be at one with nature.

Where can I stay in France for a walking holiday?

We hand-pick hotels for you to stay at during your walking holiday in France. We purposely choose friendly, characterful places where your hosts will take a genuine interest in their guests.

Our chosen accommodation ranges from rustic spaces amongst chateaux in Brittany to hotels stowed away in the mountainous landscape of Mont Blanc.

What should I wear on a walking trip to France?

For your own comfort and to avoid any unwanted injuries, it's important to come with the correct walking attire for your walking trip to France. This means bringing a solid pair of walking boots that have been worn-in prior to the trip, plus enough pairs of thick socks to avoid blisters.

Be sure to check the weather forecast ahead of your trip. You may need waterproofs with a hood and appropriate lightweight or waterproof trousers. Fleeces and breathable layers are also a good idea. If the weather is set to be hot, make sure you bring a cap and sunglasses.

What should I pack for a walking holiday in France?

As well as the correct clothing, you'll need to pack additional items like a water bottle and snacks. It's important to bring SPF sunscreen too as even cloudy days expose you to UV rays. A first aid kit is another handy thing to pack for your walking holiday in France, particularly if you are embarking on a solo walk. Don't forget your camera too!

Check the itinerary of your chosen walk to judge what you might need.

How difficult are our walking holidays in France?

We give each walking holiday a level so that you can make an informed decision about which option best suits your experience.

  • Level-one walking holidays in France are the most easy-going, which means that anyone with young children or the less mobile can take it easy.
  • Level-two and -three tours are more strenuous and require greater fitness levels but can still be enjoyed by most fit, healthy walkers.
  • Level-four tours are best suited to experienced walkers who are used to tackling challenging routes and have trained in the run-up to their trip.
  • If you're unsure on the grade to choose, you can get in touch with our team. They will be able to give you a glimpse into what to expect from each.

Is a guided or self-guided walking holiday better for me?

This comes down to how much you plan to socialise with others while on holiday.

On a guided walking holiday, you will be walking with others in a small group led by a local guide throughout your trip, giving you plenty of chance to socialise.

On a self-guided walking tour, you'll follow a designated route with clear instructions on how to get to each point.

Why choose a walking holiday in France from Headwater?

When you book an adventure with Headwater, you can be confident that you're in safe hands. Not only are we knowledgeable and passionate about crafting our walking holidays in France, but we also have additional booking perks in place to ensure flexibility and security.

We're reputable - We've been rated 'Excellent' by our customers on Feefo due to the high-quality of our walking tours and service throughout.

Breath-taking destinations - We consider the finest details when crafting our walking tours and our five-step approval process caters to this. It means you can enjoy the experience without having to lift a finger when it comes to planning your itinerary.

We can arrange your flights - We can arrange flights for your French walking holiday - simply provide us with a few details to get the process started.

ABTA- and ATOL-protected - Our French walking tours are ABTA- and ATOL-protected so you can be confident in booking with us risk-free. Find out more about what your key rights are when booking with us.

Award-winning walking holidays in France - A number of our walking tours, including those in France, have received awards from the British Travel Awards for their expertly crafted itineraries and personal service.

We're conscious about sustainability - We make sure our walking tours are Nature Net Positive, which means they follow the rhythm of nature rather than impacting it in a way that tourism has the potential to do.

We benefit communities - Our Exodus Travels Foundation means our holidays benefit additional social, conservation, and disaster relief causes.

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