Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and our guide to 3 adventurous activities to do in France.
Whether it’s summer or winter, France always has the best terrain for outdoor activities. Boasting a diverse landscape including tall mountains and rolling hills, it’s an adrenaline enthusiast’s dream location.
From skiing ventures in the Alps to rafting the wild waters in the Alpes-de-Haute Provence, we take a look at three exhilarating activities to fuel your adventurous spirit in France.
3 adventurous activities to do in France
1. Alpine skiing in the French Alps
With vast mountains, lift-accessed off-piste slopes, and excellent resorts, the French Alps is the perfect location for a skiing holiday. The Alps are most famous for being the home of Mont Blanc, western Europe’s tallest mountain. This means you’re sure to find countless opportunities for ski mountaineering.
In the northernmost area of the French Alps, you’ll find Les Portes du Soleil, which is home to plenty of resorts suited to different levels of expertise. Avoriaz is one of the top resorts, most notably for snowboarding, and is fully pedestrianised.
Other resorts in the North include Morzine, which offers plenty of facilities for beginners, and Les Gets, a resort that has ski runs specially designed for children. Other than skiing, you’ll also have the chance to go hiking and trekking around Chamonix Mont-Blanc.
2. Cycling in the Loire Valley
Nestled in the heart of France, La Loire, or the Loire Valley, is the perfect location for cycling fanatics. A scenic route stretching 800km, you’ll pass by UNESCO-listed châteaux saturated in Renaissance history, exceptional vineyards, and unspoiled landscapes.
With the majority of the route being flat, the journey is oriented around exploration more so than it is about extreme sports. Here you’re able to witness the region’s natural beauty, including diverse ecosystems and stunning riverbank views, while indulging in gourmet delights.
To make the most of your cycling experience, a French bike tour of the Loire Valley will guide you past all of the main attractions in the region as well as some much-needed stops for wine tasting. During these trips, you’ll meet plenty of like-minded individuals to share the journey with.
3. White water rafting in the River Ubaye
A natural river in southeastern France, the Ubaye is 83 kilometres long and characterised by wild and intense torrents. This is why it is a beloved location for white water sports, more specifically white water rafting and kayaking. While the river is suitable for activities all year round, the water level depends on the season.
In the spring, the water is quite vigorous, whereas in summer it decreases, so the ride becomes more technically complex. The speciality of the river is that it blends both Alpine and Mediterranean backgrounds, meaning the calmer parts of the journey are both picturesque and highly enjoyable.
Final thoughts on 3 adventurous activities to do in France
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Ah yes there are plenty of outdoor things to do in France. My family always goes skiing in the winter, they sail in the summer and they also hike and camp and wind surfing.
That’s great Allie! It sounds like they are very adventurous x
Ohh I love skiing! I used to go every year skiing when I was little. That was my favorite part of winter. Would love to visit France!
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Thanks Radi. I love the ski resorts in France, and France is definitely worth adding to your bucket list! x
All of these look so fun Julia, and especially in France! What incredible photos, I bet it is stunning there!!
Hope you have a great weekend, my friend! 🙂
Make Life Marvelous
Thanks Ashley! Hope you have a great weekend too 🙂
I’m not a sucker for winter sports so I’d skip the skiing on the Alps, but I’d be happy to give the other two activites a go! <3
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I’m not a big fan of skiing either, although I do love the “après-ski” in the Alps xo