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.