Walking Holidays in France

Frequently asked questions about walking holidays in France

• Where to stay in France for a walking holiday?

  Where you decide to stay during your walking holiday will depend on what part of France you want to experience. For expansive Atlantic coastline and vineyards, ancient Aquitaine is a great option. For mountain landscapes and rustic villages, the island of Corsica won’t fail to delight. Or for medieval castles and scenic river valleys, consider a stay in Dordogne. These are just some of the many wonderful places to stay during a France walking holiday.

• How difficult are your walking holidays in France?

  Your walking holiday in France can be as difficult or as easy as you want it to be. We offer a range of walking holiday grades, varying in difficulty from gentle to challenging. Depending on your experience level or the type of holiday you are looking for, we have a French walking tour that is right for you. Learn more about our holiday walking grades.

• What is included in your walking holidays?

  Our walking holidays offer incredible value for money. Return flights, transfers, accommodation, meals, a tour leader, a full holiday itinerary, local transport costs, tips and service charges, and financial protection are typically all included in your holiday with us. Just check an individual holiday listing for full details.

• Do you offer self-guided walking holidays in France?

  We offer a range of both guided and self-guided walking holidays. So, if you want to go it alone but still benefit from our extensive knowledge and carefully planned routes, Ramble Worldwide can make it happen. To see the destinations currently available, take a look at our self-guided walking holidays page.

• What are the best seasons for walking in France?

  The optimal times for walking in France vary by region. For the Alps and other mountain areas, summer (June-September) offers the best conditions with snow-free paths and pleasant temperatures. Spring (April-June) is ideal for Provence and southern France with the bonus of wildflowers and fewer tourists. Autumn (September-October) brings beautiful colors to wine regions like Burgundy and Alsace, perfect for vineyard walks. Corsica is best enjoyed in May-June or September when it's not too hot but warm enough for swimming.

• What makes French walking holidays unique?

  Walking holidays in France offer an exceptional blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and gastronomic excellence. Few other destinations allow you to walk through a medieval village in the morning, picnic alongside a sun-dappled vineyard at lunch, and dine on world-class cuisine by evening. France's extensive network of well-maintained walking paths, from ancient pilgrimage routes to scenic coastal trails, combined with its rich history and culinary traditions, creates an unparalleled walking experience.

• How do I choose between a guided or self-guided walking tour in France?

  The choice between guided and self-guided walking tours in France depends on your preferences. Guided tours offer expert leadership, local insights, and the companionship of a small group. They're perfect for those who want to learn about the region's history and culture while walking. Self-guided tours provide more flexibility and independence, allowing you to set your own pace and take detours as you wish. Both options include quality accommodation and comprehensive route information, with guided tours typically including more meals and activities.

• What's the typical group size for your guided walking holidays in France?

  Our guided walking holidays in France typically have a small group format with approximately 10-18 travellers. This creates an ideal balance—enough people to enjoy sociable company while remaining small enough to access charming local restaurants and accommodations that larger groups cannot. Small groups also allow our experienced leaders to provide personalized attention and ensure everyone gets the most from their walking experience in France.

• Can I combine a walking holiday with other activities in France?

  Absolutely! Many of our France walking holidays incorporate additional activities and experiences. You might enjoy wine tastings in renowned vineyards, visit historic châteaux, explore prehistoric caves, or experience local markets. Our Discover holidays particularly focus on blending walking with cultural immersion. Additionally, most holidays include at least one free day where you can pursue your own interests, whether that's relaxing at a local café, visiting museums, or arranging optional excursions.