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Travel Guide France
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  • Sunset over the Bordeaux vineyards in France
    Sunset over the Bordeaux vineyards in France Photo: FreeProd, Adobe Stock

France

Discover France through routes certified by the On Piste experts! Sporting and tourist destinations to satisfy your desire to get away from it all, while visiting the best spots.

Whether looping or roaming, take advantage of itineraries that have been tested and verified in the field with local stakeholders, and that respect ecosystems. Trail, bike, gravel, mountain bike, walk or hike, the On Piste label offers a selection of marked routes for all levels to discover in the mountains, plains, countryside or coast.

Co-developed with local players, the On Piste itineraries combine sporting and touristic interest, so you won't miss out on any of the best spots!

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Activities in France


Etang de Socourt
hikes
mountain biking trails
bike rides
road cycling routes
trail runs
long-distance hikes
Crags pilgrim walks horse rides mountain hikes bikepacking routes runs snowshoe walks city walks gravel bike routes ski tours cross-country ski trails motorcycle routes nature trails alpine climbing routes scenic routes backcountry skiing routes alpine routes kayak trips winter hikes Ski resorts via ferratas canoe trips caravan trips sledding runs canyoning routes horse carriage rides boating trips SUP routes Swimming ice climbing routes horse-drawn sleigh rides

Attractions in France


Hiking

But it doesn't have to go quite so high. The French Jura, for example, offers easier tours and one-day tours, and hikers will also enjoy the hiking trails around the Massif Central in the heart of the country. You can go hiking in the ten national parks of the country. Outside the parks, France also offers countless hiking trails and huts invite you to linger. The main towns here are the Alps and the Pyrenees.

  • Hiking Trail · Champagne-Ardenne
    Williers - Orval
  • Hiking Trail · Cesana Torinese
    Lake Ginoux / "of the 7 colors"
  • Hiking Trail · Combrailles Auvergne
    Pery
  • Hiking Trail · Cesana Torinese
    Trail Sentiero Balcone: Stage 7 Cesana Torinese - Sauze di Cesana
  • Hiking Trail · Upper Corsica
    Enchanting Revellata Peninsula
  • Hiking Trail · Upper Corsica
    From Saint-Florent to Punta Mortella
  • Hiking Trail · Corse-du-Sud
    Panoramic hike in the Calanche: Château Fort
  • Hiking Trail · Corse-du-Sud
    The rock castles of the Calanche
  • Hiking Trail · Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur
    Montagne de Céüse
  • Hiking Trail · Puy-de-Dôme
    The Fossat valley - The Pause rocks

France, ideal playground for trail running

For thrill-seekers and lovers of the great outdoors, France is the perfect trail destination! With its varied landscapes and unique heritage, every trail is a promise of adventure and self-transcendence.

From the dizzying peaks of the Alps to the coastal paths of Brittany and the volcanoes of Auvergne, the diversity of terrain offers challenges to suit all levels. Take on technical trails like those of Mont Blanc, test your speed on the rolling paths of the Landes forests, or explore the cliffs of the Ardèche. The spectacle is always there.

But trail running in France is much more than just running. It's about immersing yourself in history and culture: passing through medieval villages, skirting majestic castles or surveying World Heritage sites. Every stride tells a story.

And after the effort? There's nothing like a gourmet break to recharge the batteries: cheeses, charcuterie, local specialities, accompanied by a fine wine or craft beer.

Whether you're a beginner or an expert, France promises miles of thrills and spills. Get your sneakers ready - the show starts the moment you take your first step!

  • Trail Running · France
    Hiking - Tour of the three mounts via the ruins of Montfort
  • Trail Running · Creuse
    Trail Les rochers de Chabrières
  • Trail Running · Andaine Passais
    Circuit 5 Station trail: Saint Michel route
  • Trail Running · Niort
    Les venelles de Niort - Station de Trail

France, a land of adventure for cycle touring

France is your dream playground for two-wheeled enthusiasts! With its varied itineraries and breathtaking landscapes, every pedal stroke is an invitation to escape, between nature, heritage and gourmet discoveries.

From the winding roads of the Alps to the bucolic paths of the Loire Valley, from the great plateaux of Aubrac to the wild coasts of Brittany, the possibilities are endless. Whether you're a fan of the mythical cols of the Tour de France or a leisurely stroll along the canals, each itinerary offers its share of unforgettable sensations and panoramas.

Cycle tourism in France is also an immersion in history and culture. Ride through medieval villages, stop off at a Renaissance château or pedal through famous vineyards. Each stage is a discovery that enriches the experience.

And after a day in the saddle, it's time for gastronomy! Treat yourself to a cheese platter, blueberry tart or regional specialties, all accompanied by a local wine or craft beer.

Whether you're with family, friends or on your own, France promises miles of adventure and fun. So get on your bike and explore this unique country!

  • closed
    Bike Riding · Parc naturel régional des Vosges du Nord
    Cross-border bike route “from side to side”
  • Bike Riding · Nièvre
    EuroVelo 6 - From Nevers to Cosne-Cours-sur-Loire
  • Bike Riding · Gers
    Artistic Route (EAB): "About." Cycles and letters in Lomagne
  • Bike Riding · Dinan Cap Fréhel
    Bike link from Plancoët to Saint-Jacut-de-la-Mer

Vive la France !

France is a very diverse country in terms of landscape. It stretches from the Mediterranean coastal regions of Provence to the windward English Channel in the north. France is suitable for a holiday - both in summer and winter. The miles of sandy beaches on the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged Mediterranean coastline are a magnet for seaside holidaymakers during the warm season. In the winter months, first-class ski areas in the Pyrenees and the Alps attract skiers from all over Europe.

France on your own

Anyone who has watched the famous Tour de France on television knows that there are many ways to explore the country by road bike or mountain bike.

The Mont Ventoux, for example, is a great challenge for Tour de France professionals as well as for amateurs. The tour has already rolled over the summit 13 times, but since 2002 the "Windy Mountain" is no longer part of the tour.

You can also combine your stay in France with traveling to other countries. As the German-French border runs along the Rhine, there are many cycling and hiking trails along the river bank or in the mountains of the Vosges.

  • Road Cycling · Vaucluse
    In the footsteps of the Tour de France - by bike to Mont Ventoux
  • Bike Riding · The Black Forest
    Along the Rhine from Breisach
  • Bikepacking · Alsace
    Cross-border cycling route "Beer & Brewing Culture" (PAMINA area)
  • Bikepacking · Grand Est
    EuroVelo 19 - The Meuse by Bike

High-Alpine Tours around the Mont Blanc

Around Mont Blanc near Chamonix there are some mountains and peaks to discover. Those who venture into the higher altitudes of the mountains can enjoy the view from the "roof of Europe" or sniff fresh mountain air on the numerous Aiguilles (in English needle, mountain peaks).

Mont Blanc massif
Recommended route Petit Aiguille Verte Northwest Ridge
Mont Blanc massif
Recommended route Lachenal crossing of the 3 summits

Fasten your skis...

...and off to the slopes! Where? In Europe's largest skiing area. Les 3 Vallées- Val Thorens/Les Menuires/Méribel/Courchevel offers pure skiing fun with 600 km of slopes. On easy (blue marked), medium (red) and difficult (black) slopes there is something for every skier. The little ones can let off steam on the toboggan run and make the children's land of the French ski school ESF unsafe.

  • Val Thorens
  • Meribel
  • Les Menuires
  • Courchevel

Surfing

Photo: Outdooractive Editors

The Atlantic coast is a paradise for surfers or those who still want to become one. The best hotspots are located on the 300 km long beach between the Gironde estuary near Bordeaux and the small surfer village Biarritz on the Spanish border - here you will certainly find a suitable wave. The coast is sparsely populated with relatively small holiday resorts and many camping sites in the pine forests. The high season is July and August, after that the tourists get less and the waves bigger.

France has a lot to offer for water rats. Enjoy nature from the water on a canoe trip in the Dordogne valley or rather adventurous climbing, abseiling and jumping in gorges while canyoning? There is something for everyone!

Paris je t’aime

Photo: Outdooractive Editors

France is known for its extraordinary culture and is popular with many tourists all over the world. Everywhere in the country different dialects are spread, which constitutes the charm of the republic. However, the purest French is spoken in the capital, the "Coeur du pays" (heart of the country).

"Paris I love you" - The famous film title from the year 2006 confesses the love for the city - rightly. Paris enchants with its romantic streets and baroque buildings. With more than 200 art galleries, 100 theatres and 160 museums, the city is considered a top-class cultural landscape. So if you are also interested in culture and history as a balance to the sports programme, you will find the biggest offer here.

Wine regions

As a wine lover you have to taste the best wines of the country. Especially in the region around Bordeaux, the home of Bordeaux wine, many wine tours and tastings are offered. But also in Burgundy the famous Chardonnay or Pinot Noir can delight the palate. Provence is said to be one of the most beautiful wine regions of France. This region is one of the only French regions to specialise in rosé wine.

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Destinations in France


Regions

Show Map
Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
The mountains are undeniably a source of well-being, a place to let go and relax for unforgettable ...
Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Bourgogne-Franche-Comté is the kind of location that tourists return to repeatedly. Need travel tips? ...
Brittany
Welcome to Brittany, where nature, culture and outdoor activities combine for an unforgettable ...
Loire Valley
The Centre Val de Loire is an emblematic region renowned for its majestic châteaux, 15 of which are ...
Corsica
Corsica is one of the most versatile islands in Europe. Sun worshippers will find what they are ...
Grand Est
Grand Est is a renowned destination amongst outdoor fanatics. Need travel tips? This exclusive ...
Hauts-de-France
Hauts-de-France provides an endless feast of experiences for travelers. Are you looking for travel ...
Île-de-France
Welcome to Île-de-France, a captivating region where nature, culture and outdoor activities come ...
Normandy
Discover Normandy far off the beaten paths. Need some travel suggestions? Our online travel guide ...
Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Welcome to Nouvelle-Aquitaine, a region that invites you to discover its treasures in a responsible, ...
Occitania
Welcome to Occitanie, a land of exceptional beauty where nature, history and outdoor activities ...
Atlantic Loire Valley
From the Atlantic coast to the Manche Alps, via the Loire Valley and its tributaries, come and ...
Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur
Leave the well beaten paths and discover the Provence-Alpes Côte d'Azur on your own. Eager to get ...

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Localization

Parts of this content were machine translated using French as the source language

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