Walking in France

Discover local culture, savour delicious food and wines, and get to know the breath-taking beauty of the French countryside.

The French Alps in summer remain one of the best-kept secrets for alpine walking, and are the ideal place for anyone looking to experience the incredible beauty of mountain scenery.

There are few places in the world where you can lie sunbathing on a lush Alpine meadow, gazing up at mountains that tower 13,000 feet into the sky.

With picture-perfect views that look like they’re straight out of a storybook and plenty of activities such as hiking, swimming and cycling, you will have a chance to refresh both body and mind.

Walking in Morzine: Rivers, lakes & waterfalls

Morzine offers hundreds of kilometres of marked footpaths, perfect for all types of walkers.

Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Dranse River on the Fox Trail, a 11 kilometre route with stunning views and informative signs about the local wildlife and rocks.

For a more challenging hike, head to Point de Nyon, where you'll pass the Nyon Waterfall and climb steeply through the forest to the Plateau de Nyon, a grassy meadow offering spectacular views of Morzine and the Alps.

Walking in Lake Annecy: Alpine meadows & lakeside views

Lake Annecy has over 8,000 kilometres of marked paths offering stunning Alpine meadows, forests, and breathtaking views. The gentle trail around the lake allows you to soak in the beauty of the town and its serene surroundings.

History enthusiasts will enjoy the Talloir Tour, a captivating walk through the charming village of Talloires, where maps guide you to ancient sights and historic buildings dating back to the 9th century.

For those seeking a peaceful retreat, the Bout de Lac Reserve Naturelle offers a flat, tranquil stroll through vibrant flora and fauna, leading to a beach perfect for watching graceful paragliders or indulging in water sports like pedalos and paddleboarding.

Walking in Chamonix: Peak pursuits

Chamonix is an ideal base for a walking holiday, with trails for all levels. You can explore the village or venture into the peaks, with well-marked paths guiding the way. 

For an easy stroll, try the 2 kilometre loop around Lac des Gaillands, ideal for a family-friendly, half-hour walk.

If you're chasing stunning views, the 6.1 kilometre walk from Les Praz to Lac Blanc is a must. Part of the famous Tour de Mont Blanc trail, this moderate three hour walk rewards you with breathtaking views of Chamonix’s Aiguilles, Les Drus, and La Verte. You can also take a cable car up to Lac Blanc for incredible Mont Blanc Massif vistas, and stop at a cozy refuge along the way to recharge.

Walking in La Clusaz: Peak Adventure

La Clusaz, 1,000 meteres up in the Col des Aravis, is perfect for outdoor lovers. Whether you're into easy walks, cycling, or even summer tobogganing, there's something for everyone.

Trails vary from village-side strolls to more challenging hikes, with the Beauregard Plateau offering incredible Mont Blanc views via cable car.

For a short walk, try the 1.5 hour La Croix de Fer walk, where you might catch sight of Mont Blanc.

Looking for a bigger challenge? The 4.5 hour walk to Lac de Tardevant delivers stunning alpine vistas.

Walking in Samoëns: A Little Slice of Haute-Savoie Heaven

Samoëns, tucked between seven mountains, is a stunning mix of natural beauty and village charm. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a challenging hike, there’s a trail for you.

One standout walk is the 7.2 kilometre loop through Chantemerle and Les Suets, where you’ll wander past historic villages and enjoy breathtaking views. For panoramic vistas, hop on the cable car to Tête du Pre des Saix, where a range of trails offers unforgettable scenery.