Hike to the top of "Pic Saint Loup", wine & food - FAQ

France’s 4 Best Hiking And Trekking Tours: Which To Choose?

France is a country that truly rewards those who enjoy walking and exploring on foot. With its diverse landscapes—from rugged mountains and lush forests to historic villages and rolling vineyards—France offers a wealth of options for hikers and trekkers. We particularly love experiences like the Pic Saint Loup hike with wine tasting for its blend of challenging terrain and gourmet rewards, or the guided scooter hike in Iraty for a fun, eco-friendly way to enjoy nature. Whether you’re after a physical challenge or a scenic stroll, France’s varied terrain means there’s something for every type of hiker.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up the four best hiking and trekking tours in France—each unique in its own way. From quad-bike adventures in Corrèze to exploring historic villages in Dordogne, these tours highlight the country’s rich landscape and cultural charm. Read on to find out which one best fits your travel style.

1. Quad and Moto hike, discover the Corrèze otherwise. Accessible to everyone !!

Quad and Moto hike, discover the Corrèze otherwise. Accessible to everyone !!

This adventure offers a chance to see Corrèze in a way that’s accessible to everyone, even if you’ve never tried riding a quad or motorbike before. With Cedric as your guide, you’ll enjoy tourist hikes, gourmet walks, and memorable moments that highlight the region’s lesser-known sights. The tour lasts about an hour, making it a quick but fun activity suitable for travelers of all ages or those with limited time.

What makes this tour stand out is its inclusiveness—you don’t need prior experience. The focus is on enjoying the scenery and sharing good memories, rather than technical prowess. The cost is quite reasonable at $54.70 per group, and reviews give it a perfect 5.0/5 from 33 travelers, praising its friendly approach and fun atmosphere. This tour is perfect if you’re after a light-hearted, active experience that offers a different perspective of rural France.

Bottom Line: If you want a fun, low-pressure way to explore Corrèze while enjoying some fresh air and good company, this tour hits the mark. It’s a great option for families or groups looking for something memorable without a steep learning curve.

2. Hike to the top of “Pic Saint Loup”, wine & food

Hike to the top of "Pic Saint Loup", wine & food

At number 2 on our list, this full-day guided hike combines physical challenge with culinary delights. Starting from Montpellier, you and a small group (limited to eight for a personalized experience) will tackle the steep, rocky trails up Pic Saint Loup, a peak known for its panoramic views over the surrounding vineyards and countryside. Once at the summit, the view is well worth the effort, offering a sweeping scene of the region’s rolling hills and wine country.

After the ascent, you’ll indulge in a home-cooked meal and a wine tasting at a family-run guesthouse—an experience that truly captures the local flavor. The tour costs $65.22 per person and lasts about six hours, balancing a challenging hike with relaxing tasting sessions. Guests consistently praise the expert knowledge of guide Bertrand and the warm atmosphere, often citing the “delicious home-cooked meal” and “great local wines” as highlights.

This tour is ideal for active travelers who love combining exercise with gastronomy. Keep in mind that the hike is demanding, so good footwear and a reasonable fitness level are recommended.

Bottom Line: If your idea of a perfect day involves a challenging mountain climb topped with fantastic food and wine, this tour offers a rich taste of the Languedoc region’s natural and culinary riches.

3. Guided hike in Iraty by scooter

Guided hike in Iraty by scooter

For a different kind of outdoor adventure, the guided scooter hike in Iraty combines the thrill of exploring on all-terrain electric scooters with the serenity of France’s dense forests. Lasting about an hour and a half, this tour is perfect if you want to enjoy nature without the physical strain of a traditional hike.

Using specially designed electric scooters, you’ll traverse through the Iraty forest, experiencing the sights and sounds of this magical woodland while having fun. The scooters are fully adapted to the environment, making this a safe and eco-friendly way to cover more ground quickly and comfortably. With a perfect rating of 5.0 from just four reviews, this tour is praised for its unique experience and friendly guide.

Ideal for families, casual walkers, or anyone interested in trying something new, this experience is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The only possible downside is the short duration—if you’re looking for a long trek, you might want to pair this with other activities.

Bottom Line: For those seeking a playful, nature-focused outing that’s accessible to all, this scooter tour provides a fun, low-impact way to explore France’s lush forests.

4. Hike to discover the most beautiful villages of France of the Dordogne valley : Loubressac and Autoire

Hike to discover the most beautiful villages of France of the Dordogne valley : Loubressac and Autoire

At number 4, this half-day guided hike immerses you in the charming villages of Loubressac and Autoire. This trip is perfect for travelers who prefer a mix of walking and sightseeing, with a focus on historic and scenic locations. The tour begins with a walk through Loubressac, a village renowned for its well-preserved architecture and stunning views over the Dordogne River valley. Then, you’ll hike along the cliffs of Autoire, a place famous for its castle built into the rock and a striking waterfall.

The full itinerary includes a visit to Chateau des Anglais, a castle dating back to before the Hundred Years War, perched dramatically above the village of Autoire. The entire tour lasts about three hours and costs $337.16 for up to 15 people, making it an economical choice for groups or families. Reviews mention the beautiful scenery and the well-curated stops, though some note the pace is gentle rather than strenuous.

This tour offers a relaxed pace and plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet contemplation of France’s quintessential countryside. It’s best suited for those who prefer scenic walks over physical challenges.

Bottom Line: If you’re drawn to picturesque villages and historic sites, this guided hike provides a meaningful glimpse into Dordogne’s timeless character.

How to Choose the Best Hiking or Trekking Tour in France

When selecting your ideal outdoor experience, consider your fitness level, interests, and time available. If you want something light and fun, the quad and moto hike in Corrèze offers an active, memorable outing. For those craving a full day of mountain challenge and gourmet pleasures, the Pic Saint Loup hike is unbeatable, especially if you enjoy wine and local cuisine.

If you prefer a more relaxed, family-friendly activity, the guided scooter tour in Iraty provides a playful way to enjoy nature without extensive walking. Finally, for lovers of historic villages, the Dordogne valley hike offers a scenic, cultural experience at a gentle pace.

Booking early is wise, especially for small-group tours like the Pic Saint Loup hike, which is capped at eight travelers. Consider the best time to visit—spring and fall typically offer the most comfortable weather for hiking.

France’s landscape is rich with opportunities for outdoor exploration. Whether you’re seeking a quick adventure, a challenging trek, or a scenic stroll, this list has something to inspire your next trip. For a fun family outing, the quad and moto tour is perfect. If you’re after gastronomy and mountain vistas, the Pic Saint Loup hike will satisfy. For something playful and eco-conscious, the scooter tour in Iraty offers a fresh perspective. And for those who love historic villages and scenic views, the Dordogne hike provides a peaceful, picturesque experience. Whichever you choose, remember to book early and prepare for a memorable time in France’s remarkable landscapes.