Our self-guided walking holidays in France let you travel at your own pace. Plan the day around your own personal agenda, choose when and where to stop for lunch, then set off again whenever you're ready. Whether you want to explore the beautiful Basque countryside or venture along the famous trails of Mont Blanc, it's completely up to you.
Discover the picturesque landscapes of France on our hotel-to-hotel walking holidays or single-centre self-guided tours. Receive comprehensive route notes and detailed maps so you always know where you're going, no matter where you are. For the days you're not walking, take advantage of our regional guides to seek out information on the local area, so you can enjoy a spot of sightseeing... or just spend the day lounging by the pool!
Each of our self-guided walking tours can cater to all abilities. Many people bring children on our easier independent walking holidays and, of course, you can always carry infants in a papoose. Families staying in one place can have more choice over routes and how strenuous or easy-going you want your days to be. Alternatively, you can view our guided walking holidays if you'd like a little more direction.
Begin planning your exciting independent walking tour by browsing our list of holidays below. You'll find plenty of information on the location you'd like to visit, including dates, prices and itineraries.
Self-guided walking
6 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
Printed route
directions
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1
Leisurely
Printed route
directions
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1
Leisurely
Navigation App
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2 & 2+
Printed route
directions
Self-guided walking
8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
Headwater
Navigation App
Self-guided walking
8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
Headwater
Navigation App
Self-guided walking
4 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
Headwater
Navigation App
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1
Leisurely
Printed route
directions
Self-guided walking
4 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
Headwater
Navigation App
Self-guided walking
4 nights,
single centre
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
Headwater
Navigation App
Self-guided walking
6 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
Headwater
Navigation App
Self-guided walking
4 nights,
single centre
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
Headwater
Navigation App
Self-guided walking
6 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
Headwater
Navigation App
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
twin centre
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
Printed route
directions
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
Printed route
directions
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
twin centre
Level: 3
Stretching
Headwater
Navigation App
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
twin centre
Level: 3
Stretching
Headwater
Navigation App
Multi-activity holiday
5 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
Navigation App
Multi-activity holiday
8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
Headwater
Navigation App
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Self-guided walking
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Where appropriate, we grade our holidays based on distance, terrain, elevation gain, remoteness, etc and categorise them into 4 relative groups. This is ultimately subjective and may vary slightly day to day; for more advice, please see the specific trip page or call one of our friendly team.
Our hotel-to-hotel walking holidays allow you to discover your chosen holiday region at your own pace. Each holiday is graded depending on your experience and fitness levels. Here, you'll move between hotels every two days while the local Headwater team transport your bags, so you won't need to worry about carrying your luggage with you.
Our single-centre holidays mean you'll be spending your evenings in one base hotel for the duration of the trip. That way, you can settle in and make yourself at home. You'll be provided with a list of walking routes to follow but you're completely free to walk as and when you wish. This holiday is particularly ideal for those who prefer a less active break.
France is the perfect place for you to take the reins on a self-guided walking holiday. There are so many places to explore, from coastal towns and medieval villages to iconic mountain ranges and quiet countryside.
Venturing on foot allows you to choose the pace you move. Whether you want to challenge yourself or soak in the atmosphere, you're free to select the walking route that best suits you. When you're ready to settle down at your hotel for the night, your luggage will be ready and waiting for you.
The weather is usually warm and pleasant in France so it's important to dress for the conditions. Make sure to wear comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy walking boots, as you'll be spending a lot of time on your feet! If the weather is particularly hot and sunny, don't forget to wear sunglasses, a hat and plenty of high-SPF sunblock.
However, if you're heading to a cooler part of the country, it's important to be prepared for all circumstances. Thermal layers plus waterproof trousers and jacket will keep you warm and dry while on the move.
We have a large selection of self-guided walking tours in France that operate throughout the year. If you're planning on exploring the rural French countryside, make the most of the warmer climate and depart between the spring and summer months. That way, you can wander through the lush meadows, admire the rolling hills and enjoy wine-tasting in the sunshine.
Alternatively, if you're taking on the country's mountainous regions, we advise travelling in late summer (July to September). This is so you can avoid the harsh weather conditions that these areas usually experience throughout winter.
There are so many stunning areas of France that will truly take your breath away. Mont Blanc boasts enchanting views with its snow-capped summit and mirrored lakes.Step into a real-life fairy tale when you visit the Loire, with its mesmerising chateaux and unspoilt landscapes, or head to the paradise beaches of Corsica and immerse yourself among the idyllic shorelines and azure waters.
Our self-guided walking holidays in France typically last between four and eight nights. This is to ensure you get the most out of your holiday and have time to explore your surroundings and enjoy the carefully crafted itinerary that our local experts have put together. They're all designed so that you also have enough time to relax in the excellent accommodation provided.
With nearly 40 years' experience in the travel industry, you can count on us to make sure your walking holiday is an unforgettable one. We cater to leisurely strollers and adventure-seekers alike, so here's why you should book your next holiday with Headwater: