France is packed with stunning places to discover, and hiking is one of the most popular ways to explore them. Some choose cycling, others prefer walking. From north to south, east to west, the French territory offers countless magnificent spots for visitors. Whether you're after heritage sites or breathtaking landscapes, here are some unusual hikes in France suitable for both young and old.
1. The Toulourenc Gorge
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Toulourenc Gorge near Pont de Veau CR: visorando[/caption]
The first destination, little-known yet fascinating, is the Toulourenc Gorge, located in Vaucluse near Malaucène.
Hikers can follow the river whilst taking in the peaceful surroundings. Set in the heart of the Ventoux massif, its banks are lined with natural pebble beaches. The water is clear and clean for everyone to enjoy. Perfect for a picnic or a short camping trip.
2. Walk to the Menier chocolate factory
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Former Meunier chocolate factory and current Nestlé headquarters Photo: Promenade d'une curieuse[/caption]
Another unusual hike in France worth discovering is the Menier chocolate factory, located on the banks of the Marne in the Paris region, right next to Noisiel park. Once a chocolate factory, now Nestlé's headquarters, the walk runs alongside the river. You can visit this workers' town restored in the 90s, built in red and yellow brick in 19th-century style.
The factory, built half on an island, also houses a mill with refined brick and ceramic décor. You'll also find a concrete cathedral.
3. The Hauts-de-Seine region
The Meudon forest in Hauts-de-Seine covers 1,100 hectares, 520 of which are in Meudon. Even in the Paris region, a proper hike can be undertaken. The setting is magical and offers total escapism. Also in this department, there's the Fausse-Reposes and Clamart forests. In Picardy, specifically in Oise, there's also the Compiègne forest, where calm and tranquillity reign. The spaces are considerably wider and the discoveries very interesting. Indeed, it's an excellent spot where several inns have set up.
4. The Jura: unusual hikes in France on donkey-back
Hikers can also visit the Jura, in Franche-Comté, which offers various activities. It's also the only department to offer donkey accompaniment to serve as your mount for visiting villages during your hikes. Several inns also provide this type of service.
5. The Saint-Guilhem desert
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Gellone Abbey in Saint Guilhem le Désert © OTI SGVH[/caption]
Finally, there's the Saint-Guilhem desert, in the Hérault Valley where visitors benefit from a professional guide to traverse the garrigue and causses. The hike is a genuine test of strength, requiring proper kit. The landscape is stunning and the sun shines almost all year round. You'll also discover God's hive, which, according to legend, held a fragment of Christ's cross.
For an unforgettable hike in France, don't hesitate to gather information from specialist agencies.
