From the rugged mountains to charming small towns the south of France offers something for everyone. So, if you’re already dreaming about your next walking holiday, stick around.
In this article, I’ll dish out all the details on the types of tours you can’t miss, the top destinations to hit up, and some handy tips to make sure your trip is smooth sailing.
Trust me, you won’t want to miss a single word.
Without further ado, let’s get started:
Key Takeaways:
From coastal paths to mountain trails, Southern France boasts diverse destinations like Nice, Cap Ferrat, and Mont Ventoux, providing breathtaking views and new experiences.
Southern France has nice weather all year. You can go for walks whenever you want. Great for outdoor adventures.
Types of Walking Tours in South of France
Well, there are lots of different tours to pick from, and each one offers something unique. Whether you’re into history, nature, or food, there’s an excellent tour for you.
So, take a look at the options, and then you can decide which one to choose.
They are as follows:
Guided Walking Tours
These tours are like having your own personal storyteller. That is, tour guides take you through cool places, spicing things up with interesting historical and cultural gossip along the way.
Related Post: Small Group Tours in the South of France
Self-Guided Walking Tours
Love exploring at your own pace? Pick up a map and itinerary and set off on an adventure. There are so many popular hiking areas that you can simply explore them all on your own.
Related Post: Places in the South of France for Young Adults
Nature & Wildlife Walking/Hiking Tours
If you are a nature admirer, then this sort of tour is for you. Outdoor excursions on foot offer opportunities to discover stunning scenery and natural landscapes. It’s like a real-life National Geographic expedition.
Culinary Walking Tours
This type of tour offers gastronomic journeys featuring local food tastings and market visits. Plus, they offer a flavorful exploration of regional cuisine and gourmet traditions.
History & Culture Walks
There are many heritage and traditional sites in the south of France. And the best way to explore them is through history and French culture walks in this region.
From historic cobblestone streets to breathtaking natural landscapes, you’ve got it all to explore. Now, it’s up to you which type of tour you prefer.
Notable Destinations for Walking Tours in South of France
Southern France has some amazing hiking spots that can leave you confused about where to explore. To make your decision easier, I’m sharing the best France walking tour destinations based on my experience.
Here’s a glimpse for you:
| Destinations | Route Length | Route Duration (Approx.) |
| Nice – Villefranche-sur-Mer | 4 miles | 2 – 2.30 hrs |
| Cap Ferrat Loop | 6.6 miles | 2.30 – 3 hrs |
| Provence Hiking Tour | 131 miles | 7-8 days |
| Grasse to Antibes Hiking | 98 miles | 5 -6 days |
| Eze Bord de Mer to Eze Village | 3.1 miles | 2.30 hrs |
| Luberon Villages Loop | 148 miles | 8- 9 days |
| Mont Ventoux Hike from Bédoin | 28 miles | 2 days |
| Blanc-Martel Trail in Verdon Gorge | 8 miles | 4 – 5 hrs |
| GR9 Trail from Saint-Amour to Grimaud | 604 miles | 312 hrs |
| GR20 Trail in Corsica | 106 miles | 15 days |
Below, you’ll find all the essential information you’ll need for your walking tours at each spot. So, don’t miss out on any details.
Coastal Paths from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer
Route Difficulty: Easy | Beginners | Kid-Friendly
Route Type: Point-to-Point
Route Trajectory: Nice – Villefranche-sur-Mer
Age Range: Up to 80 years
Best time of Year: Spring or Autumn
If you’re planning a dreamy tour with your family and kids, the Coastal Path is totally the way to go. It’s super chill and offers some seriously stunning views.
And, it’ll take you about 2 and a half hours to finish up this. Along the way, you can totally vibe with a beach picnic or even do some snorkeling.
Cap Ferrat Loop
Route Difficulty: Easy | Beginners | Kid-Friendly
Route Type: Loop
Route Trajectory: Around St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula
Age Range: Up to 85 Years
Best time of Year: Year-round
If you’re seeking a delightful tour at any time of the year, a CAP Ferrat hiking expedition fits the bill perfectly.
This 6.6 miles loop trail is a breeze to navigate, offering spectacular vistas despite its brief duration. It’s noteworthy that this trail is great for beginners and kids.
Provence Hiking Tour
Route Difficulty: Easy | Beginners
Route Type: Point to Loop
Route Trajectory: Avignon – Les Baux de Provence – Saint-Remy – the Alpilles – Isle Sur La Sorgue – Fontaine de Vaucluse – Gordes – Roussillon – Luberon valley – Avignon
Age Range: Up to 90
Best time of Year: Spring and Fall
The provençal hiking tour is another great option.
You’ll stroll through vineyards, valleys, and stunning views, starting in Avignon and looping back around. So, plan your trip right away – with guided tours or local guides.
Grasse to Antibes Hiking Tour
Route Difficulty: Easy to Moderate | Physical Fitness
Route Type: Point to Point
Route Trajectory: Grasse – Nice – Pont du Loup – Courmes – Vence – Antibes – Tourrettes-sur-Loup – Cannes
Age Range: 16 to 80
Best time of Year: Spring and Early Autumn
The Grasse to Antibes 1-week wonderful tour offers everything from breathtaking landscapes to coastal vibes. Perfect for ages 16 to 80.
It’s a chill hike through cool places like Nice and Vence, wrapping up in the lively atmosphere of Antibes.
Additionally, you have the opportunity to partake in refined activities, including cooking classes, wine tastings, and local market visits.
Eze Bord de Mer to Eze Village
Route Difficulty: Moderate to Hard | Physical Fitness
Route Type: Out and Back
Route Trajectory: Èze-bord-de-Mer station – Moorish Village – Eze
Age Range: 16 to 80
Best time of Year: Round the Year
This awesome 5.0-km trail near Èze, Alpes-Maritimes is perfect for hiking with friends or your furry buddy. It’s kind of tough and rocky, taking about 2 and a half hour to finish– but the views are worth it.
Once you reach the end of the trail, you can climb even higher to check out some ancient buildings from medieval times.
Extra Tips:
Dress comfortably and wear sturdy hiking shoes for a great experience.
Luberon Villages Loop
Route Difficulty: Hard
Route Type: Loop
Route Trajectory: Forcalquier – Reillanne – Cereste – Apt – Cavaillon – Merindol – Lauris – Pierrevert – Manosque – Voix – Villeneuve
Age Range: 16 – 80
Best time of Year: Spring and Autumn
Luberon Villages Loop is a route where ancient hilltop towns, lush valleys, and serene forests intertwine. This route offers diverse environments and atmospheres, from cliffs to cedar forests.
It’s a bit of a journey, so plan at least a week for the full adventure. Good news for bikers – the roads aren’t too crowded, so you can pedal at your own pace.
Smart Move:
Pack plenty of water and snacks, and get ready for an enjoyable trip.
Mont Ventoux Hike from Bédoin
Route Difficulty: Hard
Route Type: Loop
Route Trajectory: Bedouin – Les Constants – Tete de la Grave – – Col des Tempetes – Rote Du Mont Ventoux -Piste de la Tete du Chauva
Age Range: 16 to 80
Best time of Year: May to October
Take a leisurely stroll along the Mont Ventoux route, starting from the quaint village of Bédoin. Afterward, check out the famous “Mont Chauve” summit, with its rocky vibe and sparse vegetation.
This spot’s a hit with walkers. Take some time to simply relax amidst the natural beauty of this region.
Fun Tips:
The region is known for its excellent champagne. So, make some time to visit the nearby vineyards for a wine-tasting experience.
Blanc-Martel Trail
Route Difficulty: Hard to Challenging
Route Type: Loop
Route Trajectory: Auberge du point sublime – Sublime – Infos – Belvédère du Couloir Samson – Tunnel du Baou – Belvédère de Trescaïre – Baume aux Chiens – Beaume aux Hirondelles – Brèche Imbert – Échelles de la Brèche Imbert – Baume aux Boeufs – Point Infos
Age Range: 16 to 80
Best time of Year: Spring and Autumn
The Blanc-Martel Trail is pretty lengthy, but luckily, you’ll be mostly shaded along the way. There are challenging sections within the area, narrow paths, steep staircases, and occasional dark spots where a flashlight may be necessary. Thus, it’s best not to take your child along.
Extra Notes:
Dogs and pets are not allowed on this route.
GR9 Trail
Route Difficulty: Challenging
Route Type: Point to Point
Route Trajectory: Amour – Grenoble – Ax-en-Province – Signes – La Garde freinet – Mediterranean Sea
Age Range: Up to 80
Best time of Year: May and October
Next up, check out this 596 miles trail near Saint-Amour, Jura. It’s a real challenge, taking around one to three months to finish, depending on your daily pace and stops.
Here, you’ll explore breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences. Perfect for backpacking, camping, and hiking. Plus, you’ll have the place mostly to yourself.
GR20 Trail
Route Difficulty: Challenging
Route Type: Point to Point
Route Trajectory: Ortiventi Fountain – Promontory of Argioa – Refuge d ‘Ortu – Lake Muvrella – Bocca Tumasginesca – Cascade d’E Radule – Lake Nino – Pointe Muratellu – Forest House – Plateau de Ghjalgone – Bocca Villaghellu – Bocca d’Usciolu
Age Range: Up to 80 Years
Best time of Year: May/early June to late October
If you are looking for a long walking tour in the south of France, this is the best choice. This is a long hike for the tourists.
Along the route, there are shelters where you can crash for a fee or camp if you’ve got a tent, but only at designated spots. So, make sure to prepare yourself for the incredible journey ahead.
Why Choose Walking Tours in the South of France?
Exploring Southern France on foot is like stepping into a storybook to come to life!
This place is a hot spot for tourists from all over the world, and for good reason. Here’s why you should totally plan a walking tour there:
Year-Round Enjoyment
The South of France boasts a mild climate. It makes walking tours feasible and enjoyable throughout the year. So, at any time, you can get your backpack ready and set off.
Immersive Experience
Compared to traditional touring methods, walking tours provide a more immersive experience. How? A walking tour allows you to truly connect with the local culture and landscapes.
Personal Connections
Whether it’s striking up a conversation with a local artisan or stumbling upon a hidden beauty off the beaten path, these tours offer ample opportunities for unique discoveries and personal connections.
Rich Cultural Heritage
A walking trip will let you explore the region’s rich cultural heritage by visiting historic sites and immersing yourself in vibrant local traditions. You will get insights into French history.
Off-the-Beaten-Path
A walking tour allows for a deeper exploration of the local environment.
Here, you can venture into remote areas and explore areas that are inaccessible by transport.
And finally, Southern France is a paradise for your taste buds. You can have fresh and, flavorful dishes for lunch or dinner made with local ingredients. And, of course, plenty of wine to wash it all down.
Plan Your Walking Trip to South of France
Heading out to explore the stunning South of France on foot? Awesome choice!
Let’s get you prepped with some handy tips:
Package vs DIY Walking Tours in Southern France
Packaged tours have their perks, like having everything sorted out for you, but DIY trips give you the freedom to do your thing.
So, here’s a simple table to help you weigh your options and see which vibe suits you best:
| Packaged Tour | DIY Adventure |
| Everything is pre-planned and well organized | Requires personal research and bookings |
| Fixed tour itinerary with set destinations | Personalized experience and flexibility to customize the route |
| Accommodations are pre-booked expertly | Can choose accommodations based on budget |
| Generally higher cost due to included amenities | Can be more budget-friendly |
| Limited flexibility in schedule and activities | Complete control over your trip |
Budgeting Tips for Your Walking Adventure
Money matters, right? Hence, always set aside cash for accommodation, meals, transportation, and entrance fees. Consider off-peak seasons for lower costs.
Choose local accommodations and eateries to blend within the local culture while saving money. These simple steps will help you cut your costs to a great extent.
Related Post: Where to Visit in the South of France on a Budget?
Safety Tips for Walking in Southern France
Prioritize safety with appropriate footwear, sun protection, and ample hydration. Familiarize yourself with local emergency contacts and trail conditions. Stay vigilant, especially when hiking alone, and adhere to designated paths.
What to Pack for Walking South of France
Pack lightweight luggage and moisture-wicking clothing suitable for varying weather conditions. Essential items include sturdy hiking shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, a water bottle, a first-aid kit, and a detailed map or GPS device.
Try Local Cuisine and Must-try Dishes
From fresh seafood to herby delights, Provencal cuisines are something special. Plus, don’t miss out on classics like ratatouille, bouillabaisse, and a slice of pissaladière.
Combining Walking Tours with Other Activities
You can have more fun and memorable experiences simply by integrating other activities, such as wine tasting in vineyards, cooking classes, or cultural excursions to historic sites and museums.
Extra Tips:
Remember to book ahead for any activities, especially during busy times. Stay flexible and roll with the punches.
Closing Notes
In essence, walking tours in south of France promise an unforgettable journey of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and natural wonderment. A hiking or walking tour in this region will captivate your heart and enrich your soul.
With so many cool options, it’s time to pick your adventure.
From strolling along the Riviera Coastal Walk to tackling the Corsican Mountain Odyssey, lavender fields – the South of France is calling you. Find the one that suits you best and hit the trail for some awesome times.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Provence, France, walkable?
Absolutely, Provence offers plenty of walkable spots, especially in its charming villages and scenic countryside, perfect for leisurely strolls.
Where is the best place to base yourself in southern France?
Nice or Aix-en-Provence serve as ideal bases for exploring southern France, offering easy access to attractions and diverse experiences.
Is Menton, France walkable?
Indeed, Menton is quite walkable, featuring a charming old town and amazing seaside promenades to explore at your own pace. It’s a great place for friends traveling together.
Which hiking tours can be experienced in the south of France?
Explore scenic wonders on popular hiking tours like the Verdon Gorge, Pyrenees, Côte d’Azur, Loire Valley, Mont Ventoux, and the GR trails, etc.
Can you hike with children in the South of France?
Yes, families can enjoy hiking adventures in the South of France with kid-friendly trails catering to various ages, ensuring memorable outdoor experiences for everyone.
