Adventure Tours in France

For a country that’s slightly smaller than the state of Texas, France packs a lot of interesting terrain into a small package. You can go from the mountains to the sea in a matter of hours, with miles of idyllic countryside sandwiched in between. Each region is perfectly suited for a different activity; whether you want high-altitude adventures, sandy beach living, or an urban experience brimming with culture, France has got your back. 

Paris is no doubt at the top of many traveler’s lists, and for good reasons. The lively, modern French capital is considered a hub for fashion, art, and culinary trends. Get active by exploring the city’s historical sites on a bicycle tour or join thousands of others for Pari Roller, a weekly rollerblading soirée around the city. Don’t forget to stop by the neighborhood marché to load up on cheese and charcuterie for a picnic lunch along the Seine!

When you tire of the city, head out to les Alpes; France’s slice of this European mountain range is loaded with outdoor adventures. Get your bearings in a mountain town like Annecy or Chamonix before heading out for world-class skiing, mountain biking, hiking, or climbing. Spending all day in the mountains makes for big appetites, so take advantage of hearty regional specialities like tartiflette and raclette. You’ll soon understand there is no such thing as too much cheese! 

For those who prefer sand and surf, la Méditerranée is the place to be. This famous coastline runs from Spain to Italy and has no shortage of palm-lined boulevards and laid-back vibes. Check out upscale Nice or the university town of Montpellier when you need a break from the waves. The entire coast boasts ruins that date back to Roman times, so make sure you take a helping of history along with your ratatouille. 

If you can’t decide on one location, or even just one country, many adventure programs include France on multi-country European tours. Spend the summer visiting Spain, Italy, Switzerland, or Germany in addition to your French séjour and return home with a smorgasbord of European experiences!