Search a hike or location

search
GET PRO+
Best difficult hikes in France
Share:

Best difficult hikes in France

Got your game face on? These difficult hikes are designed for hikers who are looking for a serious adventure.

Here are some great hikes to explore in France.

Most popular hikes


Reviews for difficult hikes in France

Pam Nelner avatar

GR 34

Pes · reviewed 16 days ago

star star star star star

Great inn to inn hiking with spectacular views and lots of amenities along the route


Cameron Saltmer avatar

GR 54 - Tour of Oisans and Ecrins

Cameron · reviewed about 3 years ago

star star star star star

A very challenging trail. Completed in 9 days going clockwise. Outstanding scenery. The Écrins is a stunning national park and in parts it felt very remote. Elevation per day was some of the most I’ve done on any trail so far with 2 passes per day at some stages. Plenty of refuges to eat/drink which can help save some pack weight. Weather was great, sunshine everyday with two overnight thunderstorms. Overall I’d recommend the trail. Not for the feint hearted though!


Rob O avatar

Chamonix to Zermatt - Haute Route

Rob O · reviewed over 6 years ago

star star star star star

Did this in September 2017 with a friend. It was a fantastic trail. The sections we did were slightly different to this as we tried to compress it into a slightly shorter period of time! Would definetly recommend a night in the cabin at Mont Fort. It was somewhat grueling at times but for the most part an amazing trail


Michael Sheehan avatar

Cirque De Gavarnie

Michael Sheehan · reviewed over 5 years ago

star star star star star


martha woodsford avatar

Via Francigena - Switzerland

maw buller · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star


Frequently asked questions for hikes in France

What is the climate like for hiking in France?

France's diverse climate presents hikers with a broad palette of experiences across seasons. Winter in mountainous regions like the Alps and Pyrenees, offers a snow-clad challenge, while the milder Mediterranean coast provides a respite. Hikers should equip accordingly to manage the cold and possible snowfall in these periods.

Spring and autumn are considered ideal for hiking due to moderate temperatures and less crowded trails. Regions such as Provence and the Loire Valley burst into a riot of colors, offering a picturesque backdrop for your adventure. Be prepared for rain, however, as these are France's wettest seasons.

Summer, particularly June to August, is perfect for exploring cooler areas like Brittany or the high-altitude trails in the Alps and Pyrenees. However, with France being a popular tourist destination, anticipate larger crowds. Additionally, southern regions can become excessively hot, necessitating hydration and sun protection. For comprehensive hiking route ideas, see [Randonnées en France](https://www.gr-infos.com/gr-en.htm).


Do I need a permit to hike in France?

In France, most hiking trails are open to the public and do not require permits. However, for activities like camping or accessing certain protected areas, it's advised to check with local authorities or the French National Forestry Office. Detailed guidelines can be obtained from [France's Official Tourism Website](https://www.france.fr/en).


Is wild camping allowed in France?

In France, wild camping is generally prohibited, particularly in protected areas such as national parks. However, "bivouacking" (temporary, overnight camping) may be allowed under certain conditions. To avoid penalties and protect the environment, it's crucial to consult with local authorities or refer to [France's Official Tourism Website](https://www.france.fr/en).


Are there mountain rescue services in France?

In France, mountain rescues are primarily handled by the "Peloton de Gendarmerie de Haute Montagne" (PGHM). In case of an emergency while hiking, dial 112, the pan-European emergency number. For a comprehensive guide on safety, consult the [French Mountain Rescue Services' website](https://www.pghm.fr/).


Are there dangerous plants in France?

France's rich biodiversity offers hikers a diverse array of flora across regions. From lush vineyards in Bordeaux, lavender fields in Provence, to alpine flowers in the Pyrenees, each hike presents unique botanical encounters. A comprehensive guide to France's flora can be found at [Tela Botanica](https://www.tela-botanica.org/).


What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in France?

France's diverse ecosystems teem with varied wildlife. Hikers may encounter boars in forested areas, marmots in the Alps, and cicadas in Provence. However, be aware of ticks and mosquitoes in certain regions. For more on French fauna, visit the [French National Biodiversity Agency](https://inpn.mnhn.fr/).


Choose which optional cookies and similar technologies HiiKER can use on this device. Privacy & cookie policy