French Walking Holidays

The variety of landscapes in France is outstanding and, with a fantastic network of walking routes and off-the-beaten-track roads, it is a great place for hiking. Have you considered a walking holiday in the Alps, trying a section of the pilgrimage route to Santiago del Compostella that runs through the Midi Pyrenees or taking in the stunning volcanic scenery of the Auvergne? Some homes here have direct access to prime walking routes and coastal paths. The long distance footpaths in France are called 'Grandes Randonnees' and are identified by their white and red stripes along the route - there is a staggering 180,000km of GR routes, each with their own number. Look out too for red and yellow circular trails and 'Promenade et Randonnee' trails which are shorter and marked with a single yellow line. GRs that you might like to try include the GR34, Brittany coast path, the GR3 along the banks of the Loire River and the GR5 that runs from the Alps to the Mediterranean. Whichever route you choose, you'll find beautiful scenery, pretty villages and interesting flora and fauna. Enjoy!