Hiking France

Set off from the forest house for a short hike. The Bois de Ballon trail owes its name to the first successful balloon crossing of the English Channel by aeronaut Jean-Piette Blanchard in 1785. He set off from Dover and landed on the edge of the Guînes state forest; the Blanchard column commemorates this event. Along the way, you'll find an adventure course with monkey bridges, giant swings and a 120-metre zip line!

Accessible to all, the sentier de la Colonne is a hike that plunges you into the Denacre valley, which is full of beautiful 19th century mansions and manor houses built of Baincthun stone. Farms, ponds and waterfalls also decorate this 8 km long trail. Don't miss the famous column of the Grande Armée, a 53-metre-high marble monument erected to the glory of Napoleon. It immortalizes the camp of Boulogne where 18,000 men were assembled by the emperor to prepare the invasion of England.

Mount Pelé, culminating at an altitude of 200 meters, and its neighbor Mount Hulin, dominate the commune of Desvres and the entire Boulonnais bocage. Starting from the parking lot of the Maison de la Céramique, the walk takes the hikers in a humid and shaded environment made of trees and shrubs as well as numerous streams. Once exploited for its chalk by the Société des Ciments de France, it is now returned to nature. Count 1h30 of hiking (3 km). There is an extension of the trail towards the town of Menneville to go to the Hulin mount (4,5 km).

Canyoning, climbing, snowshoeing, descending the Pic du Midi, skiing, snowboarding, telemark skiing... These are just some of the activities offered by Matthias and his team. Thanks to Pyrénées Guides, the mountains are accessible all year round. Matthias, a true mountain enthusiast and expert on the Pyrenees, guarantees optimal conditions. You'll benefit from the supervision of mountain guides, ensuring safe outings whatever your level. These passionate people are here to help you discover the splendor of the valleys and summits.

The hiking path around the Loir for about 3,5 kilometres goes from mill to mill. The Courgain is the most impressive and is the starting point of the walk which makes a loop: still active, it is placed between several old buildings. At the other end, the mill of Battereau is a private property and is only visible from the road. While walking, you will discover species of birds and specific plants of these wetlands and tree-lined areas.

The village of Langey is linked on behalf of two French poets: from Birthplace and Rabelais. This 11 kilometre circuit is therefore part of the house of the latter, which was built next to the local castle. It also makes it possible to close to the church of the commune before discovering other remains of the feudal seigneury like barn under the tithes. This large building in length dates back to the th century. Finally, the promenade takes the walkers to Mersantes, a former local head-site.

The least we can say is that the church Saint-Etienne de Meslay-le-Vidame is worth a detour. With its Doric inspiring columns worthy of Greek temples, the religious edifice attracts the eye when you go ahead. And this falls well because the church is one of the remarkable buildings of Meslay-le-Vidame and one of the stages of the discovery circuit of 8 kilometres that crosses the town and joins the little chapel of Andeville, to the east of Chartres road. After the church, walkers can see the castle of Meslay, the former home of local lords.

At the beginning of the church of St. Christopher, along the road of Flacey, it is possible to follow a pleasant and invigorating walk along the Loir. After leaving the road at a roundabout near the bridge that allows you to enter the town, the banks of the river, grass and sheltered by trees, allow to walk over several kilometres. At the beginning of the road, a beautiful stone wash invites you to take a look.

Two paths of discovery of Frazé and its surroundings depart from the castle square where both the monument monument of the commune, the monument to the dead and the town hall tronent. On 11 kilometres, the first walk tour of the corner houses is a small washing house with a small wash on Frazé; the second, 12,5 kilometres, part east and Montigny-le-Chartif to discover the valley of Foussarde, the river passing along the castle. The latter, with its red and white bricks, draws the eye. A visit to the park allows you to discover sometimes original constructions, such as this tower-arch planted in the middle, and always impressive.

Nature and history combine to create a panorama rich in discovery. Along the way, you may come across brown gulls, green woodpeckers, kestrels and laughing gulls, as well as numerous rabbits? The trail ends up on the Slack dunes, running towards Ambleteuse and its Vauban fort. You'll end up joining the Slack as far as its mouth at the Fort d'Ambleteuse. One of the most beautiful hikes you can do for the diversity of its landscapes.

A place that will appeal to nature-watchers, especially those with an interest in wild birds. Indeed, the Hâble d'Ault marsh is home to a wealth of flora and fauna. This is a very pleasant hike for the whole family, and youngsters will have a rare opportunity to observe Samarian species in the wild. What's more, the relatively small size of the trail makes it an excellent afternoon outing.

At an altitude of more than 1,500 m, Mont Forchat offers a panoramic view from Lake Geneva to Mont Blanc. Starting from Très-le-Mont, the ascent of this mountain is a great classic of the walks in the Lake Geneva Alps. For 4 km and a difference in altitude of 160 m, it will take you about 2 hours of walking to reach the statue of Saint François de Sales, erected in 1898, and to come back on your steps. This is a family walk, without any particular difficulties, which will please young and old alike. In winter, get out your snowshoes and enjoy the snowy panorama.

The Devil Rock Discovery Trail (Shoehorn) is a 45 minute walk, close to the hamlet of La Flotte. Although there is no difficulty with access, walking shoes are always recommended. The trail is signposted, and it will lead you to the summit of Devil's Rocher. The view from the top is striking: the mountains of Cantal, Cézallier, Sancy and Mont Dore. Parking is provided at the beginning of the trail, as well as a picnic area. At the start of the walk, you move next to a slide.

On the heights of Montusclat, "in all directions" is a family walk of just over a kilometer where three playful "workshops" tell us a little more about the geology of the region: Pierriscope (view of the juices), Pierrotactile (the volcanic stones) and Pierrason (the singing of the phonolite). On the heights of Montusclat, this circuit starts in Notre-Dame de l'Étoile (chapel inaugurated in 1886, to thank God for saving Montusclat from the 1721 plague). Through the woods, we reach the village of Pouzouls Old, with its magnificent traditional farm roof roof. Please do not take the road directly left by leaving the forest (you must go straight into the village). A walk to make absolutely!

This sports course is located on the heights of the city. With a length of 1095 metres, it offers thirteen steps, three of which will warm, a slalom, bars, rings, stairs… Each event is presented on a small panel and the course extends on a green terrain, presenting different species of trees. For children, a swing playground awaits them. The journey is close to the forest on the Sainte-Catherine side, which offers beautiful walks.

The village of Crecy-Smouldering is situated in the middle of the hiking road between Tréon and Fontaine-les-Ribouts. This GR 351, passing below the commune between the woods of Solferino and La Butte, makes it possible to take a break at Saint-Eloi-Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church and admire the remains of the work carried out by the marchioness de Pompadour which came to the castle castle. Indeed, Louis XV's favorite made a hydraulic system to channel the waters of Blaise to water the Garden.

Urban hiking trail dedicated to the discovery of the natural, architectural and historical heritage of the city of Buridan. To see: the water station, the Plaisance marina, the public garden kiosk, the Saint-Vaast church, the Grand Square and its belfry…

The Grotte cave is original in many ways. In a region that has little bearing, the cave was dug in lava flows (laminate deposits) at a few hundred meters. It is this dual distinction and the dedication of a passionné of prehistoric people who have saved her from an industrial exploitation. It has been used by men at different ages (15 000 years!) as hunting shelter. A wooden esplanade was set up in 2011 to welcome the public. A 2 km trail from the village (follow the indications Volcanoes en Liberté) and is punctuated with 3 interpretive panels.

The Sentier de Randonnée La Folie de la Comté offers an 8 km, 2-hour forest walk along the Upper Lawe Valley. Following the river's flow, you'll discover the natural charms of this region, including the waterfall of the mill, the Beugin lake and the crossing of the Epenin wood along the banks. If you're looking for rural scenery, this verdant route, lulled by the songs of the surrounding fauna, will delight you. For more information on the tour, contact the Tourist Office.

The Les Châteaux et Cressonnières hiking trail offers a wide variety of discoveries and landscapes. With a length of 28 km and an estimated duration of 5h30, it allows you to admire the discreet châteaux nestling in the Lacquette valley, as well as the artesian wells used to grow watercress. From Witternesse to Blessy, this great circuit is available in several variants (11, 12 and 17 km) to suit all levels. This trail is a great way to enjoy the charm of this region while getting in some physical exercise.

The Sentier de Randonnée des Marais is a 12 km, 3-hour trail through the heart of the Bellenville marshes. This vast wetland is home to remarkable flora and fauna, veritable jewels to be preserved. Follow the winding paths through this sensitive area and stop off at the observatory to contemplate the wealth of local biodiversity. This tour will introduce you to the wild beauty of this ecologically significant marshland. As well as exploring the mining region and its natural wonders, you'll enjoy a complete change of scenery.

The Sentier de Randonnée La Lawe (Lawe hiking trail) takes you on a journey of discovery through the region's bucolic countryside. Starting from the church parking lot, follow the banks of the Lawe for 15 km and discover an unsuspected architectural and natural heritage. Following the river's peaceful banks, you'll be immersed in lush green landscapes, dotted with typical Flemish farms and remnants of the Great War. During a 4-hour loop, ideal for walkers and nature lovers, you'll enjoy a complete change of scenery just a stone's throw from the city.

The Sentier de Randonnée La Table aux Fées is the ideal trail for hikers seeking adrenalin and thrills in a setting combining nature and mystery. Over a distance of 11 km, this 2h45 hike plunges you into a woodland setting reputed to be supernatural. Its evocative name refers to a fascinating local legend, that of the "white damsels" who are said to celebrate ancient rites around a dolmen at certain times of the year. Their mystical dance is said to add a touch of enchantment to this captivating stroll, drawing passers-by under the dolmen's spell.

The Sentier de Randonnée Les Gorges Bleues invites you to a bucolic 8.5 km (2h) walk on the Lys plain. Starting at GEOTOPIA, this trail allows you to admire the marvellous bird with the azure-blue bib. Discover the lively banks of the canal d'Aire à la Bassée and taste typical local produce such as Lingot du Nord, garlic, shallots and leeks, all of which reveal the charms of this clay-loam plain. This soothing hike is ideal for nature lovers and gourmet connoisseurs alike.

Maorn offers invigorating escapades in Alsace and the Vosges mountains, supervised by state-certified mountain guides. Whether on foot, mountain bike or snowshoes, Nordic walking, photo trekking or orienteering: nature is yours for an enchanting half-day break, or longer if you wish. Drop in to the agency to discuss your wishes and find the outing that's right for you. You can also add an optional meal or overnight stay in a yurt at Champ du Feu.

The website of the Comité Régional de la Randonnée Grand Est gathers a lot of useful information for amateurs and sportsmen. It promotes and develops many actions around hiking and plays an important role in transmitting respect for nature and the environment. Its mission is also to safeguard the trails. Find all the information and advice you need before starting a hike.

The departmental committees of Upper and Lower Normandy merged in 2017, combining their strengths. Answer the call of Normandy and hike in Honfleur, Falaise, discover the castles of Bizy, Vasceuil, the Nez de Jaubourg, Mont Saint-Michel, Tahitou Island, the Roche d'Oëtre... Normandy includes three regional nature parks: the Parc des Boucles de la Seine Normande, the Parc Normandie Maine and the Parc du Perche.

You want to watch marmots with their little ones, learn to recognize juniper berries, wonder in front of the majesty of theft of an eagle…? Contact Jacques Martin. Domiciled in the Eastern Pyrenees for more than thirty years, this accompanying guide takes you to the paths of the Mediterranean at the summits of the Pyrenees, from the Aude to Ariège through South Catalonia. Thanks to his advice and experience, you will make an exciting hike. Unleashing and elevation (both clean and figurative) guaranteed!

From the church of Mignières to the Shiny Pond, the path of Santiago de Compostela borrows from the GR of countries and passes through some remarkable and pleasant communes and places. The start of the hiking trail begins between fields and forests to Junction. There a break is feasible at the edge of the stadium where the Eure passes. A little further, the GR arrives around Ver-lès-Chartres and the area of Tachainville. Then a new water plan offers its pleasant banks with games for children. Finally, it is the arrival of the Shiny. Riding, fishing or walking, many activities can be carried out in this environment.

At the tourist office you will find a map as well as an explanatory brochure that will allow you to discover the 5500 ha of the municipality, easily. In fact, the map lists the 85 hiking bars along the Bourbon roads, while the brochure explains the pictograms that appear on these bars, helping walkers develop their ideal hikes. At less cost, a beautiful way to discover the bourbonnais hedges landscape.

This is another way to discover Bourbon! More playful and original… At the departure of the Tourist Office, this rally proposes to carry out a picturesque journey, by teams of 2 or more, which walks in the heart of the most beautiful views of the corner, and of the bourbonnais heritage. A muette card is handed over to each team, accompanied by a set of photographs of architectural details and other curiosities, which is needed to be able to make progress in the rally. Some questions also spice the course! A good way to combine the useful to the pleasant, especially as gifts await participants on the finish line…

From Châteauneuf to Saint-Maixme-Hauterive and from Jaudrais to Torçay, the forest of Châteauneuf-en-Thymerais covers over 1730 hectares. The ideal place to observe wood animals and to introduce to forestry, taking into account tree tree essences in the forest, the Thymerais area is also a testimony to the region's royal past. Hikers in the forest will be able to walk through the royal driveway or walk around the King's or France's circle. In these places you will also discover some kinds of stone obelisks, surprising in the heart of wood but real, which dates from the th century and which probably served as ralliement for fox hunters.

This hiking trail begins in the village of Amilly. Roman city, then step on the chemin de Sully, which supported its castle of Villebon at the return of the courtyard of Henri IV, Amilly went through eras. The church church, in particular, allows to project the th and th centuries by discovering the murals that are housed there. After visiting the church, it is possible to follow the hiking path towards Ouerray and the Mare to the pigs in the south-east, or to the Mare du Croc in the north. In all these places, and throughout the course, panels provide explanations about the history, fauna and flora of these areas.

From Bailleau-l'Evêque, two hiking paths allow to discover the valley of the Eure. The first, 8 kilometres south of the town, is called the road to the Louis XIV River, other name of the canal of the Eure which was supposed to link Pontgouin to Versailles passing through Maintenon. This route allows you to discover the section of this channel passing between Bailleau and Amilly. The other hiking route, 11 km, passes north of Bailleau-l'Bishop. It allows to discover the castle of Levesville, which does not visit but which deserves a glance, and is spotted by the bounds of the jurisdiction of the bishop of the place when the region was governed by the Chapter.

It is called the Promenade Valley parkway. Between the village of Fresnay-le-Gilmert and the hamlet of Sénarmont, on 7,5 km, the path borrows a part of the path of Santiago between Chartres and Dreux. On the route, it is possible to discover the church Saint-Just of the th century, the Croix de la Pierre-Pohon and the Place du Calvary. The Devil Valley, which gives its name to the promenade, is in fact a ditch that must be crossed to the Bois bridges by walking close to the cereal fields that extend out of sight in that part of the department. 

The village of Cintray extends to the west of Amilly and the hiking trail allows you to discover the little jewels it contains. Among them, the Mare in the Saint or the park allows the village to deserve its two flowers in the competition of flower villages. By pushing a walk a little further, the wood of Du is a pleasant place to discover, as is the wood of Mande. Panels are arranged on the route with explanations about the fauna and flora living in these places.

From the place of the town hall of Briconville, three walks, ranging from 4 km to 8 kilometres, allow you to discover some of the remarkable sites in the surrounding area. Among them, a picnic site to spend a quiet moment in a country place, the former Louis XIV canal, the old calvary on the promenade of Tessouville… Also note that an exit in the vicinity of Bailleau-the Bishop allows to discover the fauna and flora of the valley of the Eure.

The mountain community of Perche-Gouet offers numerous hiking routes. The Altars-Villevillon, Moulhard, Mottereau, Gohory, Husk are some of the municipalities to discover during these paths, which are marked by blue marks, ranging from 12,5 to 14 kilometres. These walks are an opportunity to discover local heritage such as Bois woods, Notre-Dame churches or devotion to the Archangel Saint-Michel.

Overlooking the village of Les Mées in a spectacular way, the Penitents are a natural and geological curiosity that one comes to admire from afar. These rounded and elongated rocks of imposing size were formed by the erosion of a natural material called pudding. A well-marked path will allow you to go for a walk, sometimes steep, to discover this massif which has witnessed the formation of the Alps. The fauna and flora are very rich. Wonderment guaranteed.

The Granier mountain, or simply "Le Granier" for the friends. What a wonder! Iconic mountain of the Chartreuse massif, its 900 m high cliff, which follows the collapse in 1248 of its rock face, makes it recognizable among all. From the top you will have an incomparable view on the Chartreuse valley, the lake of Bourget and the Mont-Blanc. This difficult hike, a passage requires to cross small ladders, will cut you off from the world during nearly 3 hours of ascent. Be careful, the itinerary is not recommended when the snow is present.

Sportsmen or not, the Lac Vert de Passy is a must in the region. It is a classified natural site that offers a breathtaking view of the Mont-Blanc chains and water that is both transparent and emerald green. In summer, you can simply walk around the lake in about 15 minutes, from the restaurant's parking lot. For the hikers, you can choose a 10 km trail with a 300 m difference in altitude (departure from the Place Tobé), passing by the Himalayan bridge of the Nant Bordon, which gives a taste of adventure to this beautiful trail.

Michaël Parmentier is a nature and outdoor sports instructor who offers sporting activities during your stay in the Jura. Located on the first plateau, in the commune of Mirebel, you can join him in exploring the many hiking trails and sharing his knowledge of the area. He also offers electric bike rides, archery and paddles and canoes for hire on Lac de Chalain. Contact him for information and bookings to discover the Jura in a different way.

Take on one of the region's most emblematic hikes and enjoy an experience as challenging as it is spectacular. Be careful after the Col de la Vacherie, where the path narrows abruptly along a ravine. Fortunately, a secure handrail accompanies you through this passage. The final section is particularly demanding, taking you over a small area of just 10 square metres. Those prone to vertigo should refrain!

Set off on a charming 7 km jaunt to the picturesque Chard du Beurre, through lush green meadows and dense forests. The word "Chard", meaning little hill, suggests a pleasant climb. The starting point is Les Saisies, where cows graze peacefully throughout the summer, providing the milk that gives the famous Beaufort cheese its character. At the summit, a majestic panorama awaits you. This walk can be enjoyed in summer, with its lush greens, or in winter, when the landscape is transformed into a white paradise.

Seven hiking trails have been created, including the Art Nature trail. In the centre of Latouille-Lentillac, to the left of the church, a small path climbs up to the locality of Larraufie where the walk starts. The Art Nature path is a real museum in the woods, combined with a botanical path. Throughout a walk of more than a kilometre, you will discover about sixty surprising, tender, magical works of art... A poetic and enchanting walk. To see and to see again, alone, with your partner or with your family, it is always a great pleasure and it is... free of charge.

The municipality has set up four easy hiking trails to discover Orbais-the Abbey. Long from 30 minutes to 1 h, they address different themes related to the heritage of the commune: the vine (2,5 km), the mountain (2,4 km), the mill (1,5 km) and the panorama of Orbais (1 h). The trails will take you to the abbey church built in the th century and to the Museum of rural life.

Tariff: free.

Duration: between 30 minutes and 1 h.

Difficulty: .

Creusot Cycling Sport regularly organises the hiking "Les Crêtes crêtes" from the Perrette coomb. The 16 th edition will take place on September 21, 2014 and will once again offer a walking tour and a mountain bike circuit accessible at all levels. They are segmented into sections of 7 km to 40 km, depending on the chosen level and discipline. If you own your own horse or donkey, a route is also set up for equestrian hiking!

Tariff: from 3 € to 5 € depending on route chosen.

Duration: the choice.

Difficulty: .

A small town full of character, Parné-sur-Roc is the perfect place for a family outing. Take a stroll along the paths steeped in history, and discover step by step the "roquets", little flower-filled lanes, working-class houses, buildings with remarkable architecture, and the medieval bridge. Follow the yellow signposts for 7 kilometers from Place de l'Église; this simple, easy-to-access loop is sure to provide you with a pleasant sporting experience.

Just outside the village of Chaudeyrolles a path begins 4 km that take you to the crater of Narces. Along the way, panels will explain the original and the use of peat which is found at the bottom of the crater, today drained. Same starting point, another trail of 4 km leads to the Signon mount. This hike is done in 1:45 but will allow you to discover another material, the losse, found in the construction industries Auvergne.

Price: free.

Duration: 1:45.

Problem: easy.