France is full of magnificent places to discover, and hiking is one of the most popular ways for the French to explore them. To do so, some opt for cycling, while others prefer walking. From north to south, east to west, French territory is home to many stunning destinations for tourists. Whether for a heritage visit or breathtaking landscapes, discover some unusual hikes in France that can be enjoyed by young and old alike.
1. The Gorge du Toulourenc
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Gorge du Toulourenc towards the Pont de Veau CR: visorando[/caption]
The first destination, little known yet highly interesting, is the Gorge du Toulourenc, located in the Vaucluse near Malaucène.
Hikers can follow the river while taking in a peaceful landscape. Located in the heart of the Ventoux massif, the riverbank is lined with natural pebble beaches. The water is clear and clean, so everyone can enjoy it. It is perfect for a picnic or a short camping trip.
2. A walk through the Menier chocolate factory
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Former Meunier chocolate factory, now Nestlé headquarters. Photo: Promenade d'une curieuse[/caption]
Another of the unusual hikes in France worth exploring is the Menier chocolate factory, located on the banks of the Marne in the Paris region, right next to the Noisiel park. A former chocolate factory now turned Nestlé headquarters, the walk takes you alongside the river. You can of course visit this workers' village, restored in the 1990s and built of red and yellow brick in the style of the 19th century.
The factory, built partly on an island, also houses a mill with a highly refined brick and ceramic interior. You will also find a cathedral built from concrete.
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 full-on hiking experience is possible. The setting is magical and offers hikers a complete change of scenery. Still in this area, you will also find the Fausse-Reposes and Clamart forests. In Picardy, more specifically in the Oise, there is also the Compiègne Forest, where calm and tranquillity reign. The spaces are noticeably larger and the discoveries highly rewarding. It is indeed an excellent spot where several inns have set up.
4. The Jura: unusual hiking in France on donkey back
Hikers can always visit the Jura, in Franche-Comté, which offers a range of activities. It is also the only area to offer the company of a donkey to serve as your mount for visiting the villages during your hikes. A number of inns also offer this type of service.
5. The Saint-Guilhem desert
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Abbaye de Gellone in Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert © OTI SGVH[/caption]
Finally, there is the Saint-Guilhem desert, in the Hérault Valley, where visitors benefit from the guidance of a professional guide to explore the garrigue and the causses. Hiking here is a true test of endurance, requiring adequate equipment. The landscape is stunning and the sun shines for almost the entire year. You will also discover the Ruche de Dieu, which, according to legend, held a fragment of the cross of Christ.
For an unforgettable hiking experience in France, don't hesitate to gather information from specialist agencies.
