The GR routes are a network of long-distance trails throughout France. They are popular among hikers and walkers for their scenic beauty and variety. There are many different routes to choose from, so there is something for everyone. Here are 15 of the most incredible hikes along the GR routes.
1. The GR20 – Corsica
The GR20 is one of the highest-profile hiking trails in France and Europe as a whole, renowned for its stunning alpine scenery and dramatic mountainous terrain. This challenging route traverses Corsica from north to south over a distance of about 180km, covering a variety of elevations. Whether you are an experienced hiker or simply looking for a breathtaking outdoor adventure, the GR20 is sure to impress.
With countless peaks, glistening glaciers, cascading waterfalls, verdant forests, and picture-perfect valleys to explore along the way, you will be left in awe of Mother Nature at its finest. So if you’re ready for an unforgettable trekking experience, lace up your boots and get ready to tackle the GR20 – it’s truly unlike any other hike out there!
2. The GR5 – Alps
The GR5 is one of the most stunning and well-known hiking routes in all of France. This famed trail winds its way through the spectacular Alps, crisscrossing rugged mountain passes and passing through quaint villages nestled in valleys below. Along the way, hikers are treated to sweeping vistas of alpine scenery, from towering mountain peaks to verdant meadows dotted with wildflowers.
What’s more, the GR5 features numerous stops along the way where backpackers can rest and refuel with delicious French cuisines and local wines. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply looking for a scenic day trip, a journey along the GR5 is sure to be an unforgettable experience. So if you’re ready for some backcountry adventure, lace up your boots and hit the trails on France’s historic GR5!
3. The GR7 – Pyrenees
The GR7, also known as the Pyrenees Route, is one of the most stunning mountain trails in France. Originating deep in the Pyrénées National Park, this long-distance footpath runs for more than 500 miles through some of the most breathtaking alpine scenery in the country. From snow-capped peaks to rolling valleys and cascading waterfalls, the route provides a feast for all of the senses.
And with many connecting paths and optional detours along the way, it is possible to customize your trekking experience depending on your fitness level and individual preferences. Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking to explore some of France’s most spectacular wilderness or a casual adventurer simply seeking a challenging day trip, the Pyrenees Route is sure to amaze and delight. So what are you waiting for? Come discover what makes this route one of France’s most iconic hiking trails!
4. The GR10 – Pyrenees
Walking along the GR10 route in the Pyrenees of France is an incredible experience. Spanning over 1000 miles, the trail follows a path through some of the most amazing natural landscapes in Europe. From densely forested mountains and valleys to rugged alpine terrain and steep gorges lined with waterfalls, this route has it all. In addition to its beauty, this route is also incredibly diverse, offering options for different styles and lengths of the hike.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely day trek or a challenging multi-day trail, the GR10 has something to suit your needs. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer looking for a new adventure or simply wanting to enjoy the incredible scenery, hiking the GR10 is sure to be an unforgettable experience. So what are you waiting for? Come explore one of France’s most stunning outdoor trails today!
5. The Tour de Mont Blanc – Alps
Situated in the Alps along France’s mountainous border with Italy and Switzerland sits the Tour de Mont Blanc: one of the most stunning and iconic long-distance hiking routes in the world. Spanning a total distance of about 165 kilometers, this route takes hikers through a diverse array of landscapes, from rugged mountain peaks to lush alpine meadows sprinkled with tiny villages. Along the way, trekkers will gain incredible views of some of Europe’s most spectacular alpine scenery, including picturesque glaciers and magnificent waterfalls.
And while this is certainly no casual hike – it requires at least 10 days to complete – anyone with an adventurous spirit and a passion for beautiful natural landscapes will surely be captivated by the Tour de Mont Blanc. So if you’re looking for an epic mountain adventure that you won’t soon forget, look no further than France’s astounding GR routes through the Alps!
6. The Haute Route – Alps
The Haute Route is one of the most spectacular trekking routes in the Alps, stretching from Chamonix to Zermatt via a series of towering mountain passes. This challenging trail is famous for its magnificent scenery, including iconic peaks like Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. In addition to its stunning natural beauty, the Haute Route boasts an extensive network of long-distance hiking trails known as Grand Randonnée or GR routes.
These well-maintained pathways provide easy access to countless alpine destinations, making it possible for both experienced trekkers and casual hikers to explore the region’s varied landscapes and charming mountain villages. Whether you’re looking to spend a few days trekking along the jagged ridges of the Alps or simply stopping by on your way through France, the Haute Route delivers an unforgettable outdoor experience. So don’t delay – start planning your trip today!
7. The Orne Way – Normandy
The Orne Way is one of the most stunning long-distance walking routes in all of Normandy, France. This trail, which covers over 200 kilometers from east to west, showcases some of the region’s most beautiful landscapes and historical attractions. Whether you are hiking along quiet country roads or following winding cliffside paths, there is plenty to see and enjoy throughout your journey along the Orne Way.
Highlights along the route include medieval castles and manor houses, charming country hamlets, picturesque riverside vistas, rolling green hills dotted with apple orchards and poppy fields, and much more. Whether you are an experienced trekker looking for a challenging adventure or simply a nature lover seeking an inspiring escape into the great outdoors, the Orne Way is sure to delight you!
8. The Vosges Way – Vosges
Located in northeastern France, the Vosges region is known for its breathtaking landscapes and abundance of hiking trails. One of the most popular routes in this area is the Vosges Way or GR5 as it is also called. This route covers over 400 miles, stretching from Germany to the Swiss border.
It passes through villages, forests, and alpine peaks, providing stunning views at every turn. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a casual trekker looking for a relaxing day trip, the Vosges Way has something for everyone. With countless options for rest stops and points of interest along the way, this route is sure to be a memorable experience that you will want to return to again and again. So if you’re looking for an adventure in beautiful natural scenery, be sure to explore the stunning GR routes of Vosges!
9. The GRP du Pays Catalan – Pyrenees
The GRP du Pays Catalan – Pyrenees is one of the most stunning long-distance hiking trails in all of France. This epic route runs for over 200 miles through a variety of diverse landscapes, including snowcapped mountain peaks, rocky crags, and verdant forests. Along the way, travelers will encounter picturesque villages, cascading waterfalls, and rolling meadows filled with wildflowers.
What’s more, this route is perfect for any level of hiker, thanks to a well-developed network of easy-to-follow trails and frequent access points that allow hikers to tackle portions of the route at their own pace. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable trek through some of Europe’s most scenic terrain, look no further than the GRP du Pays Catalan – Pyrenees. It is sure to leave you truly awestruck.
10. The Chemin du Puy – Auvergne
The Chemin du Puy – Auvergne, or Le Puy Route, is one of the most stunning GRPR (Grande Randonnée de Pays Routes) in all of France. A popular route for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels, this historic route winds its way through majestic plateaus and soaring mountains, passing through quaint villages and ancient ruins along the way.
Whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll through picturesque landscapes or a challenging hike up steep cliffsides and jagged peaks, the Le Puy Route offers something for everyone. So if you are looking to explore some of the most scenic areas of France, be sure to add the Le Puy Route to your bucket list!
11. The Robert Louis Stevenson Trail – Cévennes
The Robert Louis Stevenson Trail is one of the most stunning routes in France. This spectacular path cuts through the breathtaking Cévennes mountains and provides adventurers with incredible views of rocky mountain peaks, sweeping valleys, and lush forests. While the trail stretches for over 100 miles, hikers can choose to complete only small sections of it or go for the full trek.
Regardless of which option you select, you are sure to be awed by this beautiful landscape. With its diverse terrain and ease of access, the Robert Louis Stevenson Trail is perfect for anyone looking for a challenging and rewarding outdoor adventure. So if you’re looking to explore some of France’s best natural beauty, don’t hesitate to set out on this amazing trail!
12. The St James’s Way – Pyrenees
The St James’s Way is a well-known and celebrated hiking trail that winds its way through the Pyrenees mountains in France. Covering more than 400 miles, this spectacular route takes hikers past serene mountain lakes, verdant forests, and quaint villages. Along the way, they will have the opportunity to take in stunning panoramic views of the countryside and engage with local farmers, artists, and craftspeople who live and work in the region.
Not only is The St James’s Way one of the most beautiful hiking routes in France, but it is also an excellent way to experience all that this amazing country has to offer. So if you’re looking for an exciting adventure in a truly stunning setting, then be sure to add The St James’s Way to your travel bucket list!
13. The GR65 – Languedoc
The GR65, or the Route of Languedoc, is one of the most stunning walking routes in all of France. This route runs for approximately 330 miles through a variety of landscapes, from rolling hills and fertile valleys to rugged mountains and ancient forests. Whether you choose to walk the entire route or just spend a day exploring one part of it, this geographical diversity ensures that there is something for everyone along the GR65.
The diverse terrain challenges even experienced hikers, but at the same time offers plenty of opportunities to see beautiful natural scenery and experience quintessential French culture. Thus, no matter what you are looking for in a hiking experience, the GR65 is sure to be a great choice. So if you are looking for an unforgettable adventure in France, don’t miss out on this amazing network of trails!
14. The Voie Verte des Gaves – Hautes-Pyrénées
The Voie Verte des Gaves – Hautes-Pyrénées is one of the most stunning GR routes in all of France. This scenic path stretches across over 80 km of lush, verdant terrain, with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and forests. The route is well-maintained for easy hiking and cycling, making it an ideal choice for casual adventurers and seasoned outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re an aspiring mountaineer or just looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, a trip along the Voie Verte is sure to be an unforgettable experience. So why wait? Come discover what this incredible trail has to offer!
15. The Beaujolais Route – Burgundy/Rhône Valley
The Beaujolais Route is a stunning scenic road that meanders through the Burgundy and Rhône Valley regions of France. This route offers endless miles of beautiful countryside and historic villages, allowing travelers to fully experience the majesty and diversity of these two iconic regions. Whether you prefer challenging routes through rolling hills or leisurely walks through lush vineyards, this route has something for everyone.
So if you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable way to explore the rich history, natural beauty, and incredible culture of France’s famed wine country, be sure to add the Beaujolais Route to your travel bucket list. After all, with over 600 kilometers of varied terrain that showcase some of the best scenery in all of Europe, it truly is an adventure not to be missed!
In conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely walk, the GR routes in France offer something for everyone. With their stunning scenery and varied terrain, these routes are sure to provide an unforgettable experience. So why wait? Start planning your trip today!
