France - A Hiker's Paradise
By John Dulaney

Long National Paths

Often called sentiers de grande randonnee (or GRs for short), long national paths are mapped clearly and connect points together so you'll be able to get from one GR trail to the next easily. GR trails cover around 38,000 miles of France and are typically blazed (or marked) with red over white (sometimes include yellow). GR trails are also numbered as GR2, GR5, etc.

Regional Paths

Regional paths (also called GRPs) cover and circle a particular region, and are only mapped when the trail is very long. GRP trails cover about 25,000 miles of France and are typically blazed with yellow over red.

Local Paths

Local paths (also called PRs) will direct you outward from towns and villages. You might try one of these trails if you want to tour a particular spot or attraction. PR trails cover more than 47,000 miles of France and are typically blazed with yellow only or other single colors if there are multiple paths.

GR and GRP trails cross paths in every region, which makes it easy to walk long distances from one village to the next while visiting France. You can view vineyards, orchards and forests along the way, and even stop for a stay at a hotel or bed and breakfast in one of the villages as you travel.

Popular Hiking Adventures in France

Here are some great places to hike in France. Choose one to fit your tastes and hiking experience level.

Alsace Hiking to Explore Medieval Times

Learn about Medieval history and see interesting sights during your hike in Alsace. You'll also see the most famous Alsatian vineyards on your journey, visit lovely Medieval villages and taste the delicious foods and wines.

Dordogne and Perigord

Hikers can hardly resist the charming villages, markets and Medieval fortresses of the Dordogne and Perigord region. There are beautiful chateaux and prehistoric sites that will make your hike far from boring!

Brittany Hiking

As a place of dolmens, legends and menhirs, Brittany offers fabulous hiking routes along with great food. It's a peaceful hike, and you'll meet some very friendly local residents along the way.

Hiking in Burgundy (near Dijon)