Do you dream of a multi-day hike in the mountains, the countryside, or by the sea, but without venturing onto overly technical or difficult trails?
All across France, there are many 3-day loop hikes that are accessible even if you are not an experienced hiker. Here are a few easy to intermediate itinerary ideas to enjoy nature on foot throughout the country.
Let’s start in Auvergne and its volcanic landscapes with the Dômes Loop, which can be completed in 2 to 3 days. Between forests, pastures, plateaus, and panoramic views of the Chaîne des Puys, this hike is popular for its diversity and gentle elevation gain, making it accessible to everyone. As it passes through several villages, the route also allows you to spend the night in a warm and welcoming lodge.
If this experience appeals to you, here is the practical information to know:
The Jura is a true trekking and hiking destination, where both seasoned hikers and beginners can find what they’re looking for. Among the easy to moderate loops to discover, don’t miss the loop starting from Doucier, which takes you along the Truite Vagabonde Trail.
This hike is ideal for discovering the beauty of the Jura, its wild nature, and its many lakes and waterfalls. Between the famous Hérisson Waterfalls, Lake Chalain, Lake Bonlieu, and many other points of interest, the sense of wonder is constant. This loop hike is best explored during the summer season up until September, but it is also accessible in spring (from April onward) if you prefer fewer crowds and a different atmosphere.
Here is the key practical information for this itinerary:
For easy hikes, the Vosges Mountains are ideal: the elevation gain is generally lower than in other French mountain ranges, yet the scenery is just as rewarding. Several routes allow you to pass by the Grand Ballon, which is the highest point of the massif at 1,423 meters.
Here, we suggest a loop that takes you through areas of the Guebwiller Biological Reserve, then over the Grand Ballon, along the Route des Crêtes, and continues north via the Petit Ballon. While this hike remains relatively easy, it still involves a fair amount of elevation gain and takes place over 3 days:
For hikers looking for a bit more elevation gain and challenge, we recommend heading to the Pyrenees for the Tour of Mount Carlit. There are no technical difficulties here, but a good level of fitness is still required to handle the 3 days of walking, with over 2,000 meters of total ascent.
The effort is rewarded with views of several Pyrenean peaks and lakes, visits to typical villages and hamlets, and even the opportunity to enjoy the hot springs at Dorres. More adventurous hikers can enhance the circuit by tackling part of the 12 Lakes hike and even climbing to the summit of Mount Carlit for breathtaking views.
If you’re planning to take on the loop around Mount Carlit, here is the essential information to consider:
Beautiful hikes aren’t limited to the mountains! Brittany is another favorite playground for walkers, especially thanks to its GR®34: the “Customs Officers’ Path”. With a total length of 2,000 km along the Breton coastline, this trail offers stunning scenery to enjoy in every season.
If you only want to hike part of it over 3 days in the form of a loop, several options are available, including the Quiberon Peninsula loop. Between cliffs, sandy beaches, wild nature, and lively town centers, this hike offers a wonderful variety of atmospheres.
While it is sometimes classified as difficult, this is mainly due to its overall distance. In reality, it is very suitable for beginners, as there is very little elevation gain or loss, and the trail is well marked with no major technical difficulties. More experienced hikers can even complete the loop in just 2 days.
In France, the list of 3-day hiking loops is so extensive that it would be difficult to mention them all.
In addition to the hikes mentioned above, you can find routes all over the country: the Causses du Quercy Regional Park, the Verdon Gorges, the Vexin Regional Natural Park, the Morvan, the Néouvielle Reserve, the Vanoise National Park, the Ossau Valley and Peak, Belle-Île-en-Mer, the Opal Coast, the Jura, the Aspe Valley, and many more.
Between high mountain ranges, plateaus, valleys, trails through countryside and forests, and coastal routes, there is something to delight every walker! Don’t hesitate to contact local tourist offices and consult the Chemins de Grande Randonnée website to find routes suited to your level.
And if you are specifically looking for ideas for multi-day mountain hikes, be sure to check out our dedicated page on 3-day treks in the Alps.
For a first multi-day hike, good preparation makes all the difference. Even if you choose an easy route, it’s essential to accurately assess your physical condition and to already be used to day hiking.
You should also plan each stage carefully and avoid setting off blindly: distance, elevation gain, resupply points, refuges, or bivouac areas should all be known before departure.
Choosing the right equipment is just as important. Opt for well-broken-in hiking boots, a backpack adjusted to your body shape, and gear suited to the terrain. Don’t forget technical clothing and weather protection: even in summer, conditions can change quickly, and snow is still possible at higher altitudes.
Finally, remember that caution is your best ally in the field. Always stay on the marked trails, follow signage, and adjust your pace. Take regular breaks, stay hydrated, and know when to turn back if conditions worsen.