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Best scenic views hikes in France
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Best scenic views hikes in France

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in France.

Most popular hikes

1

Extra Difficult

Tour du Mont Blanc

Bonneville, France · star 4.8 (111) · 164.9 km · Est. 8 days

2

Difficult

Walker’s Haute Route

Upper Savoy, France · star N/A (0) · 201.5 km · Est. 11 days

3

Easy

Dunkirk Loop

Nord, France · star 5.0 (1) · 13.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 42 min

4

Medium

Arcs 1800 to Notre Dame des Vernettes Loop

Bourg-Saint-Maurice, France · star N/A (0) · 9.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 32 min

5

Medium

Ratonneau Route

Parc national des Calanques (cœur), France · star N/A (0) · 6.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 34 min

6

Medium

Nohan Loop

Monthermé, France · star N/A (0) · 26.4 km · Est. 6 hrs 42 min

7

Medium

4 Day Trek from Pralognan-la-Vanoise

Bozel, France · star N/A (0) · 59.3 km · Est. 3 days

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Reviews for scenic views hikes in France

Michael Lomov avatar

Tour du Mont Blanc

Michael Lomov · reviewed almost 5 years ago

star star star star star

The trek was AMAZING!!! Variable views, every day is different! Many places to drink water on the way (don't take more than 1.5L). Very easy to nevigate, not so hard for ppl with good fitness. Highly recommended :)))

No reviews available for Walker’s Haute Route.

Elliot Surridge avatar

Dunkirk Loop

LordE7979 · reviewed 6 months ago

star star star star star

Great route, very scenic

No reviews available for Arcs 1800 to Notre Dame des Vernettes Loop.

No reviews available for Ratonneau Route.

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/).

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