Where to hike this winter? 9 itinerary ideas in France

Hiking in the Alps 

The splendors of the mountains reveal a singular and memorable experience, imbued with an immutable magic. For lovers of unspoilt nature and grandiose views, the Alps are an unrivalled destination, a sanctuary of emotions and discoveries where every moment resonates with wonder.

The Vercors and Chartreuse regions

The Vercors and Chartreuse regions offer a peaceful haven for hikers in search of breathtaking views. Between Grenoble and Chambéry, these craggy massifs invite you to enjoy rejuvenating walks. 

Route n°1

In the Bois Barbu, above Villard-de-Lans, a jewel of Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, discover a nature sublimated by snow. Its landscapes could rival those of Canada's vast forests. Yet the diversity of the terrain, the slopes, valleys and rocks bring us back to reality: we are indeed on the Vercors, in the Pre-Alps.

Distance : 8.6 km - 281 m D+ climb

Duration : 4 h

Difficulty Fairly easy. Reliefs affordable. If you're in a hurry or less fit, you can opt for the return trip to the inn (shorter: 2h30).

Route n°2

The Chartreuse massif, with its peaks of singular profile and austere character, once attracted monks to build their Grande Chartreuse. Today, theEntremont desert, imbued with mystery and inspiration, offers vast, unspoilt landscapes, dotted with clearings and panoramic views. The small, family-run resort brings a sense of conviviality to these isolated spots, which nevertheless retain their authentic winter charm. The marked trails, suitable for everyone, offer memorable snowshoeing outings. The routes vary in length and difficulty, from 3 to 10 km, with color-coded indications of difficulty level. The Grand Carroz trail, 7.6 km long and 450 m ascent, offers total immersion in the local atmosphere.

The Serre Chevalie estate

In the heart of the Serre Chevalier area, the Southern Alps unfold their charm, offering magnificent panoramas. Here, trails wind through picturesque landscapes, offering an idyllic getaway for the whole family, where every turn reveals a new wonder of nature.

The Aravis massif

Nestled in the majestic Aravis Massif is the mountain of Sulens, perfect for thrill-seekers and slide enthusiasts. Its snow-covered slopes invite intrepid skiers to take to the powder, offering a unique experience in the heart of the Alps.

Hiking in the Pyrenees

 Lake Bouillouses 

In the Pyrenees, Lac des Bouillouses stands like an unspoilt jewel, offering mountain enthusiasts trails where they can lose themselves in the splendor of the landscape. An invitation to an enchanting escapade in the heart of Pyrenean wilderness.

Cirque de Gavarnie

Another must-see is the majestic Cirque de Gavarnie, a natural wonder within walking distance of the resort. This natural sanctuary dazzles adventurous souls, offering a transcendent experience in the heart of the peaks, with its majestic landscapes and spectacular waterfalls. The 7 km loop offers a walk accessible to all, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and verdant meadows. The hike lasts around 3 hours, with a positive vertical drop of 319 meters, offering a rewarding experience without being too demanding. Whether with family or friends, exploring the Cirque de Gavarnie is a great way to discover the unspoilt natural beauty of the French Pyrenees.

The GR10 

For the more intrepid, the GR10 trails stretch like a ribbon, linking both sides of the Pyrenees from east to west, from the ocean shores of Hendaye to unsuspected heights. This iconic route stretches for some 866 kilometers, offering spectacular views of Pyrenean peaks, verdant valleys, high-altitude lakes and picturesque villages. Hikers can expect physical challenges with steep ascents and descents, but also moments of contemplation and discovery in the heart of the wilderness. Each stage of the GR10 offers its share of adventures and encounters with local flora and fauna, providing an unforgettable experience for hiking enthusiasts.

An extraordinary journey, offering the chance to escape to the high mountains for a day or several days, in a spellbinding ballet between heaven and earth.
Be warned: the GR10 is a high-mountain trek that requires adequate preparation, especially in winter when the days are shorter and the routes more demanding.

Hiking in the Jura

   The Saine et Langouette hike offers a different setting, with waterfalls, lakes and gorges to discover over 9 km. This 3-hour hike with a 200 m ascent is accessible to all.

Distance: 6 km

Duration: 2h 45

Difficulty: fairly easy. A good route for a gentle introduction to snowshoeing.

Walking along the ocean in Brittany 

To walk the GR34, poetically nicknamed the "sentier des douaniers", is to immerse yourself in a vivid picture of Brittany, where cliffs stand proudly against the ocean, and coves nestle secretly between the rocks. For over 2000 kilometers, this coastal trail takes you from the majestic shores of Mont-Saint-Michel to the peaceful shores of Morbihan. Whether you're a seasoned walker or a Sunday stroller, there's a section waiting to enchant you with its seafaring charm and picturesque character.

The Crozon peninsula, a jewel of wild coastline, is home to some of the most breathtaking stretches of the legendary GR 34. Cap de la Chèvre, near the charming fishing village of Morgat, offers breathtaking panoramas, with its peaks, sea caves, beaches and dunes. This 18 km excursion is accessible to all hikers. After the effort, there's nothing like a crêpe to reward yourself!

- Distance: 18 km, with a positive difference in altitude of 630 m.
- Duration: Approximately 6 hours.
- Marking: The route is marked in white and red (GR34) for much of the way.
- Difficulty: Fairly difficult, with some short but steep climbs.

Let yourself be lulled by the song of the waves and the breath of the wind, and embark on an adventure where every step reveals a new landscape, a new story to discover.

Where to hike in France?

- The Alps

- Vercors and Chartreuse

- The Pyrenees and Lac des Bouillouses

- The Jura and the Saine et Langouette hike

- Brittany and the customs trail (GR34)

Hiking close to the city is also possible

You don't have to drive for hours to get a change of scenery: there are plenty of walks that are as beautiful as they are close to home. Surprise yourself by discovering itineraries just a few steps from your home. Some French cities even offer urban hiking trails, an invitation to explore the hidden treasures of their cityscape. It's a good idea to contact your local tourist office. 

As an example, Parisians stuck in the city during the winter, can find happiness in a getaway to Chantilly or the Fontainebleau forest. The latter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a bucolic stroll where the beauty of nature blends with the historical richness of its 12ᵉ century royal castle.

Hiking near you

- Discover local trails

- Urban walks

- Example: Chantilly and its château

The importance of good equipment for winter mountain hiking

In winter, venturing into the mountains requires meticulous preparation and the right equipment to cope with the harsh conditions. The safety and comfort of hikers depend largely on the quality of their equipment. Warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy footwear with good grip, and accessories such as gloves and a hat are essential for tackling the cold and snow.

G-Heat accompanies you on your winter hikes

With this in mind, G-Heat heated equipmentoffers an innovative solution for maintaining body heat during winter hikes. Their heated jackets and vests, equipped with advanced heating technologies, ensure optimal thermal regulation for up to 8 hours of autonomy thanks to rechargeable batteries, guaranteeing enhanced comfort even in the most extreme conditions. Thanks to this equipment, hikers can make the most of their mountain experience without fear of freezing temperatures.