🥾 HexaTrek – France’s Premier Long-Distance Hiking Trail
HexaTrek is a 3,034 km (1,885 miles) long-distance hiking trail that traverses France from the northeast town of Wissembourg to the southwestern coastal town of Hendaye. Connecting 14 of France’s most stunning national and regional parks, the trail offers hikers an immersive experience through diverse landscapes, including the Vosges, Jura, Alps, Massif Central, and the Pyrenees.
🗺️ Trail Overview
- Distance: 3,034 km
- Elevation Gain: Approximately 138,000 meters
- Duration: Typically 3 to 5 months to complete
- Sections: Divided into 6 stages for flexibility
- Route: From Wissembourg (northeast) to Hendaye (southwest)
🌄 Highlights
The HexaTrek combines 47 existing GR® (Grande Randonnée) trails into a single cohesive route, guiding hikers through:
- 14 Natural Parks: Including iconic areas like the Vanoise National Park, Cévennes National Park, and the Pyrenees National Park.
- Picturesque Villages: Experience the charm of France’s historic and scenic villages along the way.
- Mountain Landscapes: Traverse alpine meadows, rugged peaks, and serene valleys.
⛺ Camping and Accommodation
Approximately 74% of the HexaTrek route permits bivouacking (wild camping), allowing hikers to immerse themselves in nature. The official HexaTrek mobile app provides detailed information on bivouac areas, shelters, water sources, and resupply points to assist with planning and navigation.
📅 Best Time to Hike
The optimal hiking season varies depending on the direction:
- North to South (SOBO): Start between May 15 and July 1 to avoid snow in the Alps.
- South to North (NOBO): Begin between June 1 and July 15 to ensure passable conditions in the Pyrenees and Alps.
💰 Estimated Budget
Daily expenses can vary based on hiking style:
- Budget Hiker: €10/day – primarily bivouacking and self-catering.
- Moderate Comfort: €25/day – occasional stays in refuges and dining out.
- High Comfort: €40+/day – frequent accommodation and restaurant meals.
📱 Resources
For detailed planning, maps, and updates, visit the official HexaTrek website: hexatrek.com. The HexaTrek mobile app is also available for offline navigation and information on essential services along the trail.