France Walking Tour

This was an amazing holiday with Explore. The scenery was spectacular and the itinerary varied. Denis our tour leader was bouncing with enthusiasm and was always looking out for us. We were a fairly small group of 9, most in our 60s but fit, and we gelled well together. This was a holiday with a wow around every corner.

Ten challenging but supremely rewarding walking days, each ending in comfortable accommodations with ample time to get clean, enjoy fantastic food, rest and recover for the next adventure. Three well-spaced rest days to relax and enjoy the charming towns of Chamonix, Courmayeur and St. Gervais. Breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc massif at all angles in various conditions. Life affirming moments overcoming the Cols (mountain passes). Delightful interactions with fellow trekkers from around the world, and exposure to French, Swiss and Italian cultures. Thrilling optional activities including tandem paragliding (highly recommended) and a visit to the amazing Aiguille du Midi.

This was my first trip with Explore! and it was absolutely amazing! I was fortunate also with my fellow participants in our group as they were a wonderful group of people. The guide, Denis, was incredible. His knowledge about the area, the geography, and the flora and fauna was all encompassing. The only glitch I’d say was the lack of wifi in the hotel. The rooms themselves and the food was very good.

Our guide, Denis, was excellent. He had tremendous local knowledge, and made each of the group feel cared for as individuals. The walks were all manageable, but with great views

We recently completed the Tour, having waited a few years after a 'covid cancellation' and whilst being fortunate with the weather (there were high temperatures before our trip and heavy rain afterwards), we enjoyed it immensely. The physical challenge was huge, perhaps not unexpectedly and the scenery utterly beautiful. If I could sum up our experience I'd say that our previous two major treks were in the Himalayas amongst mountains almost twice the height but this did nothing to lessen the majesty and sheer beauty of the Mont Blanc region. Any disappointments such as too much shopping for lunch and a poor hotel experience in St Gervais were minor niggles.

This was an amazing experience. The walks are well planned and cover a range of experiences, from mountain tops to alpine meadows and forest walks. There were some climbs but with the payoff of incredible views. The accommodation was very comfortable and the meals provided were great. The tour guide Denis was great - knowledgeable, helpful, friendly and funny. Can’t recommend this tour enough.