France's Stunning Hiking Paths, as Revealed by Avid Hikers

## Discovering France's Hidden Hiking Treasures

France is renowned for its iconic hiking trails, yet there are several undiscovered gems that offer a unique and crowd-free experience for trekkers. Here are some of the most underestimated hiking destinations in France:

### The Cévennes Mountains and Stevenson’s Trail

Nestled in southern France, the **Cévennes Mountains** are home to the **Stevenson’s Trail** (GR70), a 150-mile route that follows the footsteps of Robert Louis Stevenson and his donkey. This rugged, wild landscape is less frequented by international tourists, offering solitude, dramatic scenery, and a deep sense of history. The trail can be completed in about 12 days and is suitable for those seeking a long-distance, immersive adventure[1].

### Le Lac Blanc and the Alps

Outside Orbey, France, lies the challenging **Le Lac Blanc** hike, a full hike over 9 miles long and almost a mile of elevation gain. This trail offers breathtaking views of the Alps and is an ideal choice for experienced hikers seeking a challenging climb[6].

### Chemin de Halage and Bouziès

In Bouziès, France, the **Chemin de Halage** trail winds below limestone cliffs and between works of art, offering a tranquil hiking experience with magnificent views and sculptures carved into the side of the cliffs[7].

### L'Arboretum Vallée des Loups

Located 45 minutes from Paris by train, **L'Arboretum Vallée des Loups** is a historical arboretum filled with bonsais, cedars, and weeping willows, providing a picturesque and serene hiking experience[8].

### The Pyrenée Mountains: Col et Pic de Madaméte and Le Cirque du Gavarnie

The **Col et Pic de Madaméte** trail is an 11-mile journey through the Pyrenée mountains, taking hikers to a mountain peak. Meanwhile, **Le Cirque du Gavarnie** is a 6.8-mile hike featuring rushing rivers, powerful waterfalls, and sky-high mountain peaks. Both trails offer challenging hikes for experienced trekkers[9][10].

### Pointe du Raz and Brittany

Pointe du Raz offers a variety of hiking options, including a 1-mile out-and-back, a 1.5-mile loop, or a 2.5-mile loop. The hike ends at Pointe du Raz, a mystical place of pixie legends in Brittany[11].

### La Trouée d'Arenberg

In Lille, France, **La Trouée d'Arenberg** is an 18th-century cobblestone trail that plows through a green forest, approximately 1.4 miles in length, making it ideal for a 2.8-mile out-and-back[12].

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## Comparison Table

| Destination | Terrain Type | Highlights | Best For | |-------------------------|--------------------------|-----------------------------------------------|---------------------------------| | Cévennes (Stevenson’s Trail) | Mountainous, rugged | Long-distance trek, solitude, history | Solo/long-distance hikers[1] | | Le Lac Blanc | Mountainous, challenging | Alpine peaks, challenging climb | Experienced hikers[6] | | Chemin de Halage | Coastal, scenic | Limestone cliffs, sculptures | Day hikers, culture enthusiasts[7] | | L'Arboretum Vallée des Loups | Forested, serene | Bonsais, cedars, weeping willows | Nature lovers, families[8] | | Col et Pic de Madaméte | Mountainous, challenging | Pyrenée peaks, challenging climb | Experienced hikers[9] | | Le Cirque du Gavarnie | Mountainous, challenging | Waterfalls, rushing rivers, mountain peaks | Experienced hikers[10] | | Pointe du Raz | Coastal, varied | Pixie legends, various hiking options | Families, day hikers[11] | | La Trouée d'Arenberg | Urban, cobblestone | 18th-century trail, green forest | Day hikers, history enthusiasts[12] |

These regions showcase France’s diverse landscapes—from coastal cliffs to alpine peaks and dense forests—offering rewarding hikes that escape the overwhelming tourist crowds of better-known destinations. Whether you're seeking a short and casual hike or a challenging multi-day trek, France's hidden hiking gems are waiting to be discovered.

Travel guides may highlight the Cévennes Mountains and Stevenson’s Trail for those seeking a long-distance, immersive adventure-travel experience, as this rugged, wild landscape offers solitude, dramatic scenery, and a deep sense of history.
Lifestyle guides might recommend Le Lac Blanc in France for adventure-travel enthusiasts, as this challenging hike over 9 miles long with almost a mile of elevation gain offers breathtaking views of the Alps and is ideal for experienced hikers.