The 7 most beautiful hikes in France

The GR98-51: the Calanques between Marseille and Cassis

Le parc national des Calanques is an incredible hiking area and a must for nature lovers. Popular at the height of the season, the coastal paths offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. There are many hiking routes to choose from, such as the one leading to the famous calanque of En-Vau or the calanque of Morgiou. Opt for the GR98-51 route, leaving from the city of Marseille to reach the town of Cassis. Along the route, which is sometimes steep, you can enjoy panoramic views of the sea, fauna and flora.

Distance: 25 km
Duration: 2 days
Difference in altitude: 600m

Tour of Mont Blanc

Breathtaking views of all the most beautiful peaks in the Alps – that’s what you can expect on this route! The tour of the Mont-Blanc massif is made up of 7 valleys, 71 glaciers and 400 peaks. Experienced hikers, let yourself be carried away by the route and the refuges, and enjoy unforgettable encounters with the hikers and the animals that inhabit the mountains. The route can start from a number of different locations, although the most common is Les Houches, and it can also start from Chamonix or Courmayeur.

Distance: 170 km
Duration: 7 to 10 days
Difference in altitude: 10,000m

The GR54: Tour of Oisans and Ecrins

In the heart of the Parc national des Écrins, this must-do mountain hike is a 10-15 day adventure. With some technical sections, this route is for experienced hikers only. Departing from Bourg d’Oisans or L’Argentière-la-Bessée, it’s possible to split the hike into segments for those who prefer to save part of it for another time. In an unspoilt setting, the peaks of the Meije and the Barre des Ecrins form a majestic landscape.

Distance: 184 km
Duration: 10 to 15 days
Difference in altitude: 12,800m

The GR70: the Stevenson Trail

This walk is named after the famous Scottish writer Robert Louis Stevenson, who set off in 1878 on a long trek across the southern Massif Central to the Cévennes. The author recounted his adventure in the book Voyage avec un âne dans les Cévennes. The route takes in a panorama of diverse landscapes, from volcanic reliefs to valleys, wild forests and marshes – it’s sure to be a change of scenery. This long trek crosses 4 territories: the Velay, the Gévaudan, the Mont Lozère and the Cévennes.

Distance: 272 km
Duration: 13 days
Difference in altitude: 8,500m

The GR21: the cliffs of Normandy

This trail, voted France’s favourite path in 2020, runs along the Normandy coastline between pebble beaches and port towns, high cliffs and green meadows. Discover the splendid Côte d’Albâtre from Le Havre to Tréport. The unmissable cliffs of Etretat are waiting to immortalise an unforgettable moment. Extend the pleasure with the GR223, which will take you to Mont-Saint-Michel.

Distance: 180 km
Duration: 10 days
Difference in altitude: 2,793m

Preparing for your hike

Start by preparing for your hike by buying a good pair of shoes, suitable for the type of path you’ll be walking on. Pack a large water bottle in a suitable rucksack and don’t forget your sunglasses, cap and sun cream. One or more comfortable outfits are also necessary, depending on the length of your walk. If you feel peckish, you’ll thank yourself for remembering to take energy bars. Take a map with you and visit the Grandes Randonnées websites for advice and further information.

In the mountains, the weather can change quickly, so it’s important to check the weather frequently. Some hikes are inaccessible depending on the season, particularly in summer due to the risk of fire. Check the prefectures’ websites to find out which prefectoral decrees are in force.

For your own safety, we strongly advise you to follow the signposts all along the route and not to stray from them. Be careful not to disturb wildlife or plants.