France’s 10 Most Beautiful Treks

France is an exceptional playground for trekking and multi-day hiking enthusiasts. From the Alps and Mont Blanc to the wild trails of Corsica, passing through the landscapes of the Jura and the Pyrenees traverse, each route promises a unique adventure. Here is our selection of the 10 most beautiful treks in France curated by Grand Angle’s expert team, the agency that takes you trekking throughout Europe.

1. Mont Blanc Tour

A true classic of European trekking, the Mont Blanc Tour (TMB) crosses the French Alps, Switzerland, and Italy over approximately 170 km. This iconic trail offers spectacular views of the Mont Blanc massif, with high-altitude passages and verdant valleys. Certainly the most popular trek in France, Europe, and even the world.

2. Pyrenees Traverse (GR10)

From the Basque Country to the Mediterranean, the Pyrenees Traverse via the GR10 is a challenge for long-distance hiking enthusiasts. Between high-altitude lakes, steep ridges, and deep forests, this adventure promises varied landscapes and complete change of scenery.

If you don’t have the few 50 days needed to complete the entire GR10, it may be worthwhile to do a section each year, and why not start with a first week on the GR10 between Hendaye and Saint-Jean.

3. The GR20 in Corsica

Considered one of the most difficult treks in Europe, the GR20 crosses Corsica from north to south over nearly 180 km. Between aerial ridges, granite needles, and pine forests, this demanding itinerary rewards hikers with breathtaking views.

It usually takes 14 days to complete the GR20 comfortably. Our expert advice: do it in 2 times, first with the North of the GR20 then the following year or after a break in the Piana calanches, the South of the GR20.

4. The Vercors Traverse

This multi-day hike in the territory where we have our roots will certainly give you the urge to explore all of Europe afterwards.

The Vercors traverse (GR91) allows you to explore a wild and unspoiled territory. Between limestone cliffs, desert plateaus, and deep forests, the Vercors traverse is an immersion in raw and authentic nature.

Let’s be honest, some sections are very forested and a condensed 4 days for a traverse of the Vercors High Plateaus or a more comfortable itinerary between cliff and Mont-Aiguille staying in inns and guesthouses have more charm than the GR.

5. The Customs Officers' Trail (GR34)

For lovers of coastal hikes, the GR34 runs along the Breton coast for more than 2 000 km. Between steep cliffs, wild beaches, and picturesque villages, this legendary trail offers a complete immersion in the maritime atmosphere.

See our selection of trekking in Brittany.

6. The Queyras Tour (GR58)

Queyras, with its preserved mountains and wild atmosphere, with the gigantic Mont Viso as a backdrop. The GR58 loops around this massif through verdant alpine meadows and panoramic passes, offering an accessible and magnificent adventure.

See our selection of trekking in Queyras including the Queyras Loop by hotel.

7. The Great Jura Crossing (GTJ)

Ideal for hiking in all seasons, the Great Jura Crossing traverses the rolling landscapes of the Jura massif. Between dense forests, open plateaus and panoramic ridges, this trail is perfect for full immersion in nature.

See our selection of trekking in Jura.

8. The Ecrins and Valgaudemar Loop

This majestic trek explores the heart of Ecrins National Park and the Oisans. It is definitely the trek crossing the wildest and most preserved massif in France and Europe. Between imposing glaciers, sharp summits and deep valleys, the route crosses grandiose landscapes. Valgaudemar, often nicknamed the « Little Himalaya », stands out for its sheer cliffs and plunging waterfalls. A demanding adventure, but rewarded by total immersion in high mountain terrain.

See the Oisans loop with a guide or our selection of hiking holidays in the Ecrins.

9. The Great Alps Crossing (GTA)

The Great Alps Crossing (GTA) is an exceptional route that connects Lake Leman to the Mediterranean using the mythical GR5. This long-distance trek crosses landscapes of remarkable diversity: peaceful alpine meadows, high altitude passes, majestic glaciers and picturesque villages. From Savoy to Mercantour, each stage offers an immersion in the natural and cultural wealth of the Alps. An unforgettable adventure for hikers seeking vast spaces and sporting challenges.

And if, again, you don’t have the opportunity to take 1 months off to trek through all the French Alps from north to south, we invite you to break the GTA into week-long sections. See our week-long holidays on the Great Alps Crossing route.

10. The Beaufortain Loop

For an accessible alpine adventure, the Beaufortain Loop offers postcard-perfect landscapes among flowery alpine meadows, mountain lakes and majestic summits. An ideal hike to discover Savoy differently.

See all our hiking holidays in the Northern Alps.

Which trek to choose?

It all depends on your level and what you’re looking for! Mountain lovers will prioritise the GR20 or the Mont-Blanc Loop, while those seeking seaside panoramas will opt for the GR34. For an immersion in wild territories, the Vercors Crossing or the GR10 will be perfect choices.

Whatever your route, each trek in France is a promise of adventure and discovery. So, ready to lace up your hiking boots and tackle the trails?

See all our organised treks in France ➜

In the same collection, continue your exploration of Europe on foot on our blog:

• the most beautiful treks in the Alps
• #[the most difficult treks in Europe](/blog/europe-most-difficult-trek “The 5 Most Difficult Multi-day Hikes in Europe”)
• the most beautiful landscapes in France