Whether it is a gentle stroll, challenging trek or a ramble through spectacular mountain scenery, walking in France provides endless choice. The unblemished beauty of the Alps is exemplified in the dramatic valleys that divide the serene mountain peaks and the crystal clear streams that feed the many high-altitude lakes dotting the landscape.
The Vanoise National Park in the Haute Savoie region is still relatively undiscovered and yet the opportunities to walk are plentiful. In typical French style the trails are all well marked and maintained and supported by excellent maps of the area. There are several mountain refuges offering overnight stays, and local mountain fare presenting the perfect way to appreciate the uniqueness of this special part of France.
The Vanoise National Park
On the border with Italy, the Vanoise National Park is the gem of the Savoie region. This region only became independent in the last century and shares its border with the Italians. Along with the Paradis National Park in Italy it forms the largest protected area in Europe. Its incredible diversity of flora and fauna, the 20 glaciers and almost 600km of mountain trails make this area one of the best in which to get a real feel for walking in France. Ibex and chamois teeter on precarious ledges while eagles and vultures co-habit in the skies above this beautiful peaceful haven. Those explorers lucky enough may also stumble upon the famous edelweiss flower, a rare specimen, synonymous with high altitude scenery.
Local flavour
Walking in France lends itself to so many different encounters and this region is no exception. There are endless chances to sample the gastronomy of the mountains renowned for its variety of cheeses which are often distinct and full of flavour. The cheeses are key ingredients in the famous tartiflette, fondu and raclette dishes associated with the area. Beaufort, itself home to a world-renowned cheese, is one of the many picturesque villages in the Savoie well worth a visit. The quaint village houses are built in distinctive Alpine style and the abundance of flowers and village features are a tribute to the proud people living here.
Further afield:
If you feel the pull of something different then why not embark on a trip to one of the bigger towns close by and take a rest from walking? In France the café culture is rife and the splendid town of Annecy is a wonderful place to soak up the atmosphere. Famous for its lake and medieval town centre, Annecy is home to some of the most expensive properties in France. Or a visit to Albertville, home to the 1992 winter Olympics, can be combined with a drive up some of the mountain roads that have become legendary in The Tour de France.
A walking holiday in the Vanoise National Park is a fantastic way to experience a very exceptional part of France, abundant in its natural, cultural and historical offerings.
Liz Olkowicz is the Business Development Manager for Footprint Holidays, a tour operator, based in Surrey, offering self-guided walking in France holidays. Explore the countryside, beautiful coastlines and charming villages when you go walking in France with Footprint Holidays.
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