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Guided Walking Holidays in France

France is where Headwater Holidays began. We have over 30 years' experience of taking travellers on exceptional guided walking holidays in France, discovering world-class wines, friendly hotels, beautiful scenery and delicious cuisine. Whether you want to explore the stunning Alpine Mountain trails or the picturesque Riviera, we're sure that we'll have guided hikes in France to suit you.

If you want to discover the true character of France, guided walking tours are a great way to do it. They allow you to explore all the hidden gems that you wouldn't be able to experience any other way. Wander through picturesque streets in the village of Sainte-Agnes to uncover spectacular views of the Mediterranean, or hike the Mont Blanc circuit to witness the dramatic scenery in all its glory.

Whichever you choose, all our guided walking tours in France are led by an experienced and passionate guide who will share their specialist knowledge with you, so that you really get to know the area. Take a look at our France walking trips below to get started on your next adventure.

Where can I go on a walking holiday in France?

From breathtaking views on alpine mountainside trails to stunning southern coastal vistas overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, France has so much to offer those looking to explore this incredible country with their feet on the ground. Here are some of the destinations you can discover on your guided walking tour in France.

The Alps

The Alps are one of the most spectacular and undisputed natural wonders Europe has to offer. Exploring its expansive walking trails and jaw-dropping scenery is something that should be on every traveller's bucket list.

The highest mountain in Western Europe and one of the most iconic ascents in the world, Mont Blanc offers adventurers the chance to experience one of the finest and most breathtaking walking routes in Europe. The Mont Blanc circuit, which is comprised of a series of paths that surround the mountain, leads you on a trail through glorious glacial mountain ranges, luscious green valleys and vast mountain lakes.

A circuit that usually takes around two weeks to complete, our Mount Blanc Highlights tour allows travellers to take in the most beautiful mountain ranges the area has to offer in the space of just seven days. With a stunning alpine chalet as a base for your walking holiday, you can immerse yourself in the astonishing Chamonix valley and embark on daily guided walking tours from there without the need to move to alternative accommodation during your trip. Simply unpack your bags, throw on your hiking boots and get ready for a truly remarkable once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Some of the highlights of this guided walking tour include:
  • L'Aiguillette des Posettes: Enjoy panoramic views across the Chamonix Valley, the Aiguilles Rouges National Nature Reserve, and around to Switzerland from the L'Aiguillette des Posettes Peak.
  • Passerelle de Bionnassay: Head from the Les Contamines valley to a dramatic suspension bridge that spans a white-water stream tumbling from the Bionnassay glacier above.
  • Chamonix: Pay a visit to this bustling alpine town full of traditional bars, restaurants and shops, before taking a cable car to the sensational ascent of Aiguille du Midi.
  • Bonatti Refuge: Drive through the Mont Blanc tunnel and across into Italy, where a climb along the Bonatti Refuge will showcase the stunning rocky peaks of Grandes Jorasses

The French Riviera

In complete contrast to the towering glacial mountain ranges of the Alps, France also boasts some of the most serene and idyllic coastlines in Europe. The French Riviera is known the world over for its stunning sandy beaches overlooking azure waters, picturesque cities and towns and delightful gardens.

Our carefully curated Walks & Gardens of the French Riviera walking tour offers travellers the chance to experience this sun-soaked region in all its glory. From trails through scenic mountain villages to leisurely strolls through the streets of Monaco and Menton, this guided tour truly encompasses all the unique gems of the French Riviera.

Here are a few of the highlights you can immerse yourself in on your walking holiday in southern France:
  • Cap Martin Peninsula: Take in the splendid views of the glistening Mediterranean Sea before exploring vast olive groves and citrus gardens.
  • Eze Plage: Admire the Mont Bastide castle and the Exotic Garden on the site of an ancient fortress in the village of Eze.
  • Monaco harbour: Wander through the winding streets of the old town before marvelling over the famous Monaco harbour and the beautiful surrounding buildings.
  • Villefranche Bay: Admire the spectacular views across Villefranche Bay before gazing at the beauty of Villa de Rothschild and its gardens from Cap Ferrat.

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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

Frequently asked questions

Is France good for a walking holiday?

No matter the destination, there are several things every traveller should make sure they have with them before embarking on a walking holiday.{BREAK}Make sure you are well prepared with a rucksack filled with plenty of snacks and water to keep you hydrated, as you may be out walking for extended periods on some excursions.{BREAK}Whatever the climate and conditions, a good pair of sturdy walking boots or shoes is a must. It's also handy to make sure you have things like plasters and a first-aid kit too, just in case!{BREAK}You may also find it beneficial to bring along trekking poles, which can offer additional support for people who may have issues with their knees or joints.

What should I wear on my walking holiday in France?

As the climate and conditions you will encounter can vary drastically depending on where and when you embark on your walking tour in France, it's important to pack clothing to suit.{BREAK}If you are planning on travelling to parts of France which enjoy milder conditions for most of the year, with temperatures increasing during the summer months, then packing lighter items of clothing would be best. It's also a good idea to bring a light jacket for any wet weather you may encounter, or for cooler evening temperatures.{BREAK}However, if you are embarking on a trip that will mean you could face harsher weather conditions, then you'll want to be well prepared. Waterproof trousers and jackets, fleeced layers and thick socks would all come in very handy for treks in regions such as the Alps.

When is the best month to go on a walking trip in France?

At Headwater, we offer guided walking holidays in France throughout the year. The months available vary slightly depending on which tour you decide to go on.{BREAK}If you are embarking on a walking tour to the south of France, we advise travellers to make the most of the Mediterranean climate, so late spring and late summer are great options to book one of our walking holidays. This means you will avoid the peak summer temperatures which could result in you feeling uncomfortable on days spent hiking.{BREAK}For walking holiday destinations in France that will take you into mountainous regions, we recommend that you travel between May and October, which you can do with our Mont Blanc Highlights tour. This means you will avoid the harsher weather conditions typical of this area during the winter months.

What are the most beautiful places to visit in France?

You are absolutely spoiled for choice when it comes to finding beautiful areas of France to explore. From sandy beaches and luscious green gardens in the Cote d'Azur to dramatic rugged mountain peaks and the crystal clear waters of Lake Blanc de Chamonix, there is no end to the wonderous natural beauty you can experience on a walking holiday in France.

How many days can I spend on a walking holiday in France?

To make sure you get the most out of your time in France, our guided walking tours typically give you seven nights to spend on your holiday.This means you have ample time to explore your surroundings while you enjoy the carefully planned excursions, while also having time to sit back and relax in the wonderful accommodation we have provided, should you so choose.

What accommodation can I expect during a walking tour in France?

With our years of experience in the travel industry, we can hand-pick the best accommodation that we know you'll love. Whether it's delightfully quaint alpine chalets complete with bubbling hot tubs or luxurious hotels just a stone's throw from the Mediterranean Sea, you'll always enjoy the same warm hospitality and fantastic traditional cuisine.

Why choose a walking holiday in France with Headwater?

We have been passionate about curating outstanding holiday packages around the world for nearly 40 years, so you can rely on us to provide a truly magical guided walking holiday in France that you will remember forever. Here are just some of the reasons why you should book your holiday with Headwater today:
  • Customer satisfaction: Our customers have been delighted with their experiences when booking with Headwater, as illustrated by over 150 five-star reviews on Feefo.

  • Experts in the travel industry: Our travel experts have a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to carefully curating walking tours in France, so you know you're in safe hands

  • Award-winning holiday providers: We are incredibly proud of the awards we have won in recent years, including Best Travel Company to Central & Western Europe from the British Travel Awards.

  • ABTA and ATOL protection: You can have peace of mind knowing your walking holiday abroad is fully protected.

  • Dedicated to sustainability: We are committed to protecting the planet and doing what we can to help make a difference. We run our tours in line with our People, Places & Planet plan and are working hard towards becoming Nature Positive.
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