Trekking in the French Alps

Extending for almost 500 miles in a great arc from the Mediterranean to the Adriatic Sea, the Alps encompass eight countries and a huge variety of landscapes, cultural influences, historic interest and scenic splendours.

Drawn to the crystal clear air, the bewitching vistas and the challenge of the outdoors, the Alps have attracted artists, climbers, explorers and nature lovers for hundreds of year. From Mont Blanc to the Matterhorn and Geneva to Grindlewald, the names of the peaks, passes and places of the Alps conjure evocative images and historical references, deeply embedded into the history and culture of Europe. A high-altitude battleground during two world wars, it is now only the tourists and trekkers that invade the region in any number, seeking adventure and natural beauty in equal measure.

For many, the towering mountains in France (and neighbouring Switzerland) are the crowning glory of the Alps. The highest peak of all - Mont Blanc, 4,810m / 15,780ft, has proved to be a magnet for climbers since the early eighteenth century and, still today, a summit attempt remains an attainable objective for high-level trekkers and mountaineers. Our Mont Blanc Summit Trekking Peak provides the best opportunity for reaching the top of this iconic mountain.

Alternatively, you can find quieter paths in the relatively little-known Claree Valley or tackle the most rewarding and scenic section of the Grand Traverse of the Mercantour on our five day Walking in the Maritime Alps walking holiday.

• Population: Approximately 14 million across the Alpine region
• Size of the Alpine region: 298,100 km²
• Countries of the Alpine region: France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Liechtenstein and Monaco.
• Three highest peaks: Mont Blanc (4,810 m / 15,780 ft), Monte Rosa (4,634 m / 15,203 ft), Dom (4,545 m / 14,911 ft)
• Popular food: Cheese fondue is one of the best known Alpine dishes and is particularly popular in the central Alpine countries.
• Did you know: The Edelweiss, a symbol of the Alps, is just one of the 13,000 species of plants that can be found in the region. It has been traditionally used in folk medicine as a remedy against abdominal and respiratory diseases.
• FCO advice: FCO travel advice for France
• World Travel Guide: World Travel Guide / France

When is the best time to travel to the Alps?

The Alps provide a stunning backdrop for a summer trek, with cool to warm temperatures. As the altitude increases, there is a corresponding decrease in temperature. The best time to visit the Alps is between July and September.

Precipitation levels are quite high all year around, falling as rain during the summer, and snow during the winter. The ski season in the Alps runs from November to April.

If you can't make the dates of our group departures, then take a private departure on dates to suit you, or we can create a Tailor Made holiday to the Alps, especially for you and your family or friends.