
France (France)
- republic with mainland in Europe and numerous oversea territories
Hiking in France offers a diverse range of landscapes, from the majestic peaks of the Alps to the scenic coastal paths of the French Riviera, as well as extensive trails through beautiful national parks and charming countryside. Here are some highlights and tips for hiking in France:
Types of Hiking Areas
-
The Alps:
- Famous for their breathtaking scenery and challenging trails, the French Alps offer routes like the Tour du Mont Blanc, which traverses multiple countries.
- Popular destinations include Chamonix and Annecy, with trails suitable for all skill levels.
-
The Pyrenees:
- This mountain range forms a natural border with Spain and offers stunning high-altitude hikes.
- The HRP (Haute Randonnée Pyrénéenne) is a renowned long-distance trail here.
-
Provence:
- Known for its lavender fields and picturesque villages, the trails in this region can offer a more leisurely hike.
- The Calanques National Park is famous for its rugged limestone cliffs and turquoise waters.
-
The Cevennes:
- A less crowded area with unique geological formations and ancient villages.
- The GR70 trail follows the historic route of Robert Louis Stevenson’s journey in 1878.
-
The Côte d'Azur:
- Coastal hikes provide stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The coastal path of Cap Ferrat is particularly beautiful.
- The Sentier du Littoral (Coastal Path) runs along the coast and provides scenic views.
-
The Loire Valley:
- Known for its châteaux and beautiful wine country, the region offers gentle hikes through vineyards and along the river.
- The GR3 follows the Loire River and allows for exploration of several châteaux.
Practical Considerations
- Trail Markings: France has an extensive network of well-marked trails (denoted by GR for long-distance trails and PR for local paths) often marked with colored blazes.
- Maps & Guides: It's advisable to carry detailed maps or use reliable GPS apps for hiking in more remote areas.
- Weather: The weather can change rapidly, particularly in the mountains. Always check forecasts and be prepared with suitable clothing.
- Local Regulations: Respect the natural environment and adhere to local regulations, especially in protected areas like national parks.
- Safety: Inform someone about your hiking plans and consider hiking with a friend or as part of a guided group, especially for unfamiliar or remote trails.
Hiking Culture
- Refuges and Gîtes: In popular hiking areas, especially the Alps, there are mountain huts and gîtes (guesthouses) where you can rest and enjoy local cuisine.
- Food: French hiking culture includes enjoying picnics with local delicacies or dining at eateries in mountain villages, often featuring regional specialties.
Hiking in France can be a delightful experience with its rich combination of culture, history, and stunning nature. Whether you seek challenging terrain or leisurely walks through vineyards and villages, there’s something for every hiker.
- Country:
- Capital: Paris
- Licence Plate Code: F
- Coordinates: 47° 0' 0" N, 2° 0' 0" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 643801 sq km
- Population: 66628000
- Web site: http://www.france.fr/
- Wikipedia en: wiki(en)
- Wikipedia: wiki(fr)
- Wikidata storage: Wikidata: Q142
- Wikipedia Commons Gallery: [Link]
- Wikipedia Commons Category: [Link]
- Wikipedia Commons Maps Category: [Link]
- Freebase ID: [/m/0f8l9c]
- GeoNames ID: Alt: [3017382]
- BnF ID: [152383070]
- VIAF ID: Alt: [264091107]
- OSM relation ID: [2202162]
- GND ID: Alt: [4018145-5]
- archINFORM location ID: [2984]
- Library of Congress authority ID: Alt: [n79006404]
- PACTOLS thesaurus ID: [pcrtSXwPXnEUgp]
- MusicBrainz area ID: [08310658-51eb-3801-80de-5a0739207115]
- Quora topic ID: [France]
- TGN ID: [1000070]
- SUDOC authorities ID: [026378329]
- Encyclopædia Britannica Online ID: [place/France]
- Encyclopædia Universalis ID: [france-vue-d-ensemble]
- HDS ID: [3354]
- EMLO location ID: [4e7d0d7c-a13d-4322-8fc6-38913f845be3]
- Great Russian Encyclopedia Online ID: [4721849]
- NKCR AUT ID: [ge129152]
- DMOZ ID: Alt: [Regional/Europe/France/]
- National Library of Israel ID: [000974208]
- NUTS code: [FR]
- YSO ID: [104968]
- Giant Bomb ID: [3035-197]
- Nomisma ID: [france]
- Klexikon article ID: [Frankreich]
- BabelNet ID: [00036202n]
- Trismegistos Geo ID: [693]
- Brockhaus Enzyklopädie online ID: [frankreich]
- subreddit: [france]
- Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online ID: [France]
- Facebook ID: Alt: [franceiine]
- FAST ID: [1204289]
- NDL Auth ID: [00563689]
- UK Parliament thesaurus ID: [10352]
- NE.se ID: [frankrike]
- Michelin Voyages ID: [europe/france]
- Omni topic ID: [0c073ec10313c224a7476aa248005761c21e7880]
- STW Thesaurus for Economics ID: [17255-3]
- Catholic Encyclopedia ID: [06166a]
- Store norske leksikon ID: [Frankrike]
- Canadiana Authorities ID: [0000G8641E]
- LoC and MARC vocabularies ID: [countries/fr]
- Statoids ID: [ufr]
- Comic Vine ID: [4020-55778]
- MeSH ID: Alt: [D005602]
- Guardian topic ID: [world/france]
- Le Monde diplomatique subject ID: [pays/france]
- UNESCO Thesaurus ID: [concept902]
- Dagens Nyheter topic ID: [frankrike]
- Invasive Species Compendium Datasheet ID: [108429]
- NYT topic ID: [destination/france]
- NLA (Australia) ID: [35098056]
- National Gallery of Victoria artist ID: [12367]
- ASC Leiden Thesaurus ID: [294912452]
- BBC Things ID: [61ef4416-de68-49ff-9c97-e0779dafd9d2]
- C-SPAN organization ID: [9846]
- BHL creator ID: [1187]
- CIVICUS Monitor country entry: [france]
- Babelio author ID: [9098]
- Larousse ID: [pays/France/120114]
- People Australia ID: [825932]
- The Encyclopedia of Science Fiction ID: [france]
- CiNii author ID (books): Alt: [DA00567886]
- WSJ topic ID: [subject/F/France/2712]
- Disney A to Z ID: [france]
- Google News topics ID: [CAAqIggKIhxDQkFTRHdvSkwyMHZNR1k0YkRsakVnSm1jaWdBUAE]
- Isidore ID: [france]
- Online Books Page author ID: [France]
- US National Archives Identifier: 10035788
- FIPS 10-4 (countries and regions): FR
- GACS ID: 619
- ISO 3166-1 numeric code: 250
- ISO 3166-1 alpha-3 code: FRA
- ISO 3166-1 alpha-2 code: FR
- IAB code: 1295
- ITU/ISO/IEC object identifier: 2.16.250
- NALT ID: 7039
- WIPO ST.3: FR
- IOC country code: FRA
- ITU letter code: F
- UIC alphabetical country code: F
- UIC numerical country code: 87
- ISBN identifier group: 979-10
Includes regions:


Brittany
- administrative region of France
- Country:
- Capital: Rennes
- Coordinates: 48° 0' 0" N, 3° 0' 0" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 27208 sq km
- Population: 3293850
- Web site: [Link]
Saint Martin
- French overseas collectivity, part of the island of Saint-Martin in the Lesser Antilles
- Country:
- Coordinates: 18° 4' 31" N, 63° 3' 36" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 53.2 sq km
- Population: 35684
- Web site: [Link]


French Southern and Antarctic Lands
- overseas territory of France
- Country:
- Coordinates: 49° 15' 0" S, 69° 10' 1" W
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 7829 sq km
- Population: 196
- Web site: [Link]


Île-de-France
- region in France where the French capital Paris is located
- Country:
- Capital: Paris
- Local Dialing Code: 01
- Coordinates: 48° 51' 8" N, 2° 19' 3" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 12012 sq km
- Population: 12082144
- Web site: [Link]


Centre-Val de Loire
- region in France
- Country:
- Capital: Orléans
- Coordinates: 47° 30' 0" N, 1° 45' 0" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 39151 sq km
- Population: 2578592
- Web site: [Link]


Corsica
- territorial collectivity of France
- Country:
- Capital: Ajaccio
- Coordinates: 42° 9' 0" N, 9° 5' 0" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 8680 sq km
- Population: 327283
- Web site: [Link]

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
- region of France
Hiking in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur (PACA) is a stunning region in southeastern France, known for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. It offers a wide range of hiking opportunities, from coastal trails along the Mediterranean to rugged paths in the Alps. Here are some key points to consider when hiking in this beautiful region:...
- Country:
- Capital: Marseille
- Coordinates: 44° 0' 0" N, 6° 0' 0" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 31400 sq km
- Population: 5007977
- Web site: [Link]


Clipperton Island
- French and Mexico overseas possession in the North Pacific Ocean
- Country:
- Postal Code: 98799
- Coordinates: 10° 17' 38" N, 109° 13' 2" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- AboveSeaLevel: 29 м m
- Area: 6 sq km
- Population: 0
- Web site: [Link]


Pays de la Loire
- administrative region of France
- Country:
- Capital: Nantes
- Coordinates: 47° 28' 0" N, 0° 50' 0" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 32082.0 sq km
- Population: 3718512
- Web site: [Link]

Guadeloupe
- Caribbean department of France
- Country:
- Capital: Basse-Terre
- Coordinates: 16° 15' 0" N, 61° 35' 0" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 1628.0 sq km
- Population: 397990
- Web site: [Link]


Martinique
- island in the Lesser Antilles, overseas region of France
- Country:
- Capital: Fort-de-France
- Licence Plate Code: 972
- Coordinates: 14° 40' 0" N, 61° 0' 0" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 1128.0 sq km
- Population: 380877
- Web site: [Link]

Mayotte
- overseas department and region of France
- Country:
- Capital: Mamoudzou
- Licence Plate Code: 976
- Coordinates: 12° 50' 35" S, 45° 8' 18" W
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 374.0 sq km
- Population: 256518
- Web site: [Link]


Réunion
- island in the Indian Ocean, overseas region of France
- Country:
- Capital: Saint-Denis
- Licence Plate Code: 974
- Coordinates: 21° 6' 52" S, 55° 31' 57" W
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 2512 sq km
- Population: 866506
- Web site: [Link]


Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
- administrative region of France
Hiking in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is a stunning region in southeastern France known for its diverse landscapes, which include mountains, lakes, and volcanic formations. It offers a wealth of hiking opportunities for all levels of experience. Here are some highlights and notable areas for hiking in this beautiful region:...
- Country:
- Capital: Lyon
- Local Dialing Code: 04
- Coordinates: 45° 44' 25" N, 4° 49' 10" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 69711 sq km
- Population: 7877698
- Web site: [Link]


Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
- region of France
Hiking in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, located in east-central France, is a region rich in natural beauty, history, and diverse landscapes, making it an excellent destination for hiking enthusiasts. Here are some highlights to consider when planning your hiking adventures in the area:...
- Country:
- Capital: Dijon
- Coordinates: 47° 14' 4" N, 6° 1' 50" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 47784 sq km
- Population: 2820940
- Web site: [Link]


Hauts-de-France
- administrative region of France
- Country:
- Capital: Lille
- Coordinates: 49° 55' 14" N, 2° 42' 11" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 31813 sq km
- Population: 6009976
- Web site: [Link]

Normandy
- administrative region of France
- Country:
- Capital: Rouen
- Coordinates: 49° 11' 11" N, 0° 21' 10" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 29906 sq km
- Population: 3339131
- Web site: [Link]


Grand Est
- administrative region of France
Grand Est, a beautiful region in northeastern France, offers a diverse array of hiking opportunities. The region is characterized by a mix of picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, vineyards, dense forests, and the stunning Vosges Mountains. Here are some key points about hiking in Grand Est:...
- Country:
- Capital: Strasbourg
- Coordinates: 48° 35' 56" N, 7° 45' 36" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 57433 sq km
- Population: 5555186
- Web site: [Link]

Nouvelle-Aquitaine
- region of France
- Country:
- Capital: Bordeaux
- Coordinates: 44° 50' 12" N, 0° 35' 20" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 84061 sq km
- Population: 5911482
- Web site: [Link]


Occitania
- region of France
- Country:
- Capital: Toulouse
- Coordinates: 43° 38' 56" N, 2° 20' 37" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 72724 sq km
- Population: 5774185
- Web site: [Link]

Saint Barthélemy
- overseas collectivity of France, island of the Little Antillas
- Country:
- Coordinates: 17° 53' 52" N, 62° 50' 3" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 25 sq km
- Population: 9625
- Web site: [Link]

French Polynesia
- French overseas country in the Southern Pacific ocean
- Country:
- Capital: Papeete
- Coordinates: 17° 32' 0" S, 149° 34' 0" W
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 4167 sq km
- Population: 275918
- Web site: [Link]


New Caledonia
- overseas territory of France in the southwest Pacific Ocean
- Country:
- Capital: Nouméa
- Postal Code: 988*
- Coordinates: 21° 15' 0" S, 165° 18' 0" W
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 18576 sq km
- Population: 278500
- Web site: [Link]

Saint Pierre and Miquelon
- self-governing territorial overseas collectivity of France
- Country:
- Capital: Saint-Pierre
- Coordinates: 46° 49' 30" N, 56° 16' 30" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 242 sq km
- Population: 6057


Wallis and Futuna
- overseas collectivity of France
- Country:
- Coordinates: 14° 0' 0" S, 177° 0' 0" W
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 274 sq km
- Population: 12197
- Web site: [Link]

French Guiana
- overseas French department in the Guianas region
- Country:
- Capital: Cayenne
- Coordinates: 3° 59' 56" N, 53° 0' 0" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 83534.0 sq km
- Population: 282731
- Web site: [Link]
Shares border with regions:


Germany
- federal parliamentary republic in central-western Europe
Hiking in Germany offers a rich experience with its diverse landscapes, well-marked trails, and charming towns. Here are some key points to consider:...
- Country:
- Capital: Berlin
- Licence Plate Code: D
- Coordinates: 51° 0' 0" N, 10° 0' 0" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 357408.74 sq km
- Population: 82521653


Monaco
- principality in Western Europe
Hiking in Monaco offers a unique and stunning experience, with a combination of beautiful coastal views, lush greenery, and the charm of a small city-state. While Monaco is primarily known for its luxury and urban environment, there are some excellent hiking opportunities in and around the area. Here are a few highlights:...
- Country:
- Postal Code: 98000
- Licence Plate Code: MC
- Coordinates: 43° 43' 52" N, 7° 25' 11" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 2.026976 sq km
- Population: 37831
- Web site: [Link]


Italy
- republic in Southern Europe, member of the European Union
Hiking in Italy offers a diverse range of landscapes, trails, and experiences, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From the breathtaking Dolomites in the north to the lush coastal paths of the Amalfi Coast in the south, Italy’s diverse geography provides something for everyone. Here are some highlights and tips for hiking in Italy:...
- Country:
- Capital: Rome
- Licence Plate Code: I
- Coordinates: 43° 0' 0" N, 12° 0' 0" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 301338 sq km
- Population: 60599936
- Web site: [Link]


Switzerland
- federal republic in Central Europe
Hiking in Switzerland is an incredible experience, as the country is renowned for its stunning alpine landscapes, well-maintained trails, and diverse hiking options. Here are some key points to consider:...
- Country:
- Capital: Bern
- Licence Plate Code: CH
- Coordinates: 46° 47' 55" N, 8° 13' 55" E
- GPS tracks (wikiloc): [Link]
- Area: 41285.0 sq km
- Population: 8211700
- Web site: [Link]