FRENCH CAMINO WALKING TOURS

WALKING IS ONLY PART OF THE ADVENTURE

FRENCH CAMINO WALKING TOURS

Included WOW’s – Ancient way of the samurai, Japanese traditional tea

11 Days / 8 Cities

Step into history on unforgettable French Camino walking tours, where the famed Camino de Santiago begins its journey across the Pyrenees into Spain. Known as the Camino Francés, this iconic pilgrimage route has been travelled for centuries, offering a unique mix of culture, spirituality, and breathtaking scenery.

Starting in the charming French town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, the trail winds through rolling countryside, medieval villages, and picturesque farmland before crossing into Spain. Walkers experience a rich tapestry of landscapes – from lush valleys and vineyard-dotted hillsides to rugged mountain paths – each step revealing new perspectives and cultural treasures.

Our tours are crafted to balance adventure with comfort. Stay in welcoming accommodation, savour delicious regional cuisine, and benefit from the knowledge of expert guides who share the Camino’s history and traditions. Small group sizes ensure a personal and meaningful journey, while a relaxed pace allows time for reflection and connection.

Whether you’re drawn by the spiritual significance, cultural heritage, or the joy of slow travel, French Camino walking tours promise a deeply rewarding experience. This remarkable journey invites you to explore Europe’s most celebrated pilgrimage route while creating lasting memories along the way.

TOUR INFORMATION

Discover more about our walking tours and experiences from around the world.

WHAT MAKES THIS TOUR UNIQUE

Pack Free Walking Tours

At Life’s An Adventure, we believe walking holidays should be about freedom, discovery, and joy – not heavy backpacks. That’s why we created our award-winning Pack Free Walking Tours. With us, you can explore Australia’s most breathtaking trails carrying only your water, camera, and sense of adventure.

Our team takes care of all the details: your luggage is transported for you, gourmet meals are prepared fresh, and comfortable hand-picked accommodation awaits at the end of each day. This means you’re free to fully immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and stories of each destination without the strain of a heavy load.

From coastal paths to rugged mountain ranges, every walk is led by passionate guides who bring the journey to life. Experience walking the way it should be light, carefree, and unforgettable with Life’s An Adventure.

Local Wines

Exploring breathtaking trails deserves to be paired with equally memorable flavours. On our walking tours, you’ll enjoy a hand-picked selection of local wines that showcase the character and charm of each region. After a rewarding day on the track, relax with premium drops sourced from nearby vineyards, carefully chosen to complement our chef-prepared gourmet meals.

From crisp coastal whites to rich highland reds, every glass reflects the passion of local winemakers and the landscape you’ve just walked. We focus on boutique wineries and award-winning labels, giving you an authentic taste of place.

Sharing a fine wine with fellow walkers at day’s end isn’t just indulgence—it’s part of the experience. It’s a chance to reflect, connect, and savour the best each destination has to offer. With Life’s An Adventure, every journey is as much about taste as it is about discovery.

Local Foods

A great walk is more than just the scenery—it’s also about the flavours that define a place. Our tours celebrate local foods by showcasing the freshest produce, artisanal creations, and regional specialities each destination has to offer. After a day of exploring trails, you’ll be treated to meals prepared with seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms, growers, and producers.

Think freshly caught seafood on coastal journeys, hearty farm-to-table dishes in the countryside, and unique flavours crafted by passionate local chefs. Each meal is designed to reflect the spirit of the region, transforming dinner into a continuation of the day’s adventure.

Gathering around the table with fellow walkers becomes a highlight of the journey—a chance to share stories, enjoy exceptional food, and connect with the community through its produce. With Life’s An Adventure, you’ll taste the land you’ve walked, making every bite part of the experience.

Local Guides

The most memorable journeys are led by those who know the land best. Our tours are enriched by the knowledge and passion of local guides, who bring each destination to life with stories, insights, and a deep connection to the places you walk. From ancient cultural traditions to hidden natural wonders, their perspectives add richness and meaning to every step.

Guides share more than just directions—they reveal the history, wildlife, and landscapes in ways only a local can. Their personal experiences and love for the region create an authentic connection, transforming a walk into a deeper journey of discovery.

Beyond knowledge, local guides provide warmth, safety, and camaraderie, ensuring every traveller feels supported and inspired. With Life’s An Adventure, you’ll see more than just the trail—you’ll experience the heartbeat of the land through the eyes of those who call it home.

ITINERARY & INCLUSIONS

This is an all-inclusive tour with no hidden extras:

Pack-free walk – only carry your lunch, water and camera
Pilgrim passport and shell
Camino guidebook with maps (one book per couple)
Flexible walking options or sightseeing each day

SUPERB ACCOMMODATION:

1 night at Le Regina Hotel, Le Puy or similar
1 night at Le Château D’Orfeuillette or similar
1 night at Château de Labro Les Collectionneurs or similar
1 night at Hotel San Foy or similar
1 night at Château Mercures (feature castle stay!) or similar
1 night at Monastere De Saint Mont or similar
1 night at Les Chemins D’Elika or similar

WONDERFUL MEALS & WINE:

Complimentary wine served with evening meals
7 x superb dinners featuring local produce
7 x delicious lunches
7 x breakfasts

GUIDES & TRANSFERS:

Professionally guided – Our CEO’s (Chief Experience Officers) are passionate, well trained and enthusiastic with the ability to bring to life a depth of information
Transfer from St Jean Pied De Port to Bayonne
Luggage transported to your accommodation each day

Day 1

Day 1: Arrival day. Transfer from Lyon. Walk St Christophe-sur-Donaison to Le Puy. France

Getting to Lyon, France: Guests will need to organise their own flights to Lyon in France the day prior to the tour. Lyon is an international airport with direct flights from many countries including Australia.

Distance: Walk 8.5kms. Hours 2.5 hours. Descent 282m

Overview: Meet our representative in Lyon at 8am in the foyer of the Hotel Carlton Lyon –MGallery by Sofitel, from here we transfer (2 hour drive) to Christophe-de-sur-Dolaison at 912m near the town of Le Puy. To maximise our time, this mornings walk will take us on a section of the Camino starting in the village of Christophe-de-sur-Dolaison and walking back towards Le Puy. This offers our guests a spectacular way to arrive into Le Puy with its dramatic volcanic outcrops adorned with chapels and statues. Once we arrive into Le Puy we will enjoy a relaxing lunch in the main square and so up the atmosphere of this medieval town. After lunch, we walk directly to our hotel, Le Regina where your bags will be waiting and you can check in to your room. This afternoon you have the option to join a sightseeing tour (no extra cost) with your guide including the Cathedral and the 10th century medieval Michel d’Aiguikhe chapel dramatically perched on a volcanic rock overlooking the town. Alternatively, enjoy some free time to explore this quaint town at your leisure. The old city is a delightful maze of small streets with pastel-painted building and shops some selling lace, as this town once famed for its lacemaking. Tonight join your group for dinner in a local restaurant specialising in regional food which is accompanied with French wines. In the evening after dinner you can stroll around the town and see the pretty illumination of significant buildings.

Day 1: Arrival day. Transfer from Lyon. Walk St Christophe-sur-Donaison to Le Puy. France

Day 2

Day 2: Walk St Privat d’Allier to Saugues

Distance: 11.4kms = 6.9kms morning walk + 4.5kms afternoon. 5 hours. 432m descent.
Optional shorter walks: Option to do only either morning or afternoon walks for those that don’t want to walk the whole way today.

This morning before breakfast, guests have the option to attend the 7am mass at the old 12th-century cathedral. The Cathedral provides a pilgrim blessing for departing pilgrims. Afterwards, we head back to the hotel for breakfast. This morning we transfer from Le Puy to St-Privat-d’Allier (23 mins) to start our walk. St-Privat-d’Allier is a small village at 875m altitude and overlooks the Allier gorges. We follow the trail above the town enjoying spectacular mountain views as we make our way to Rochegude a hilltop village. We pass one of the many Hundred Years War watch towers which can be seen throughout the countryside as we descend to the valley floor and the town of Monistrol d’Allier for relaxing lunch stop. This pretty village with its old stone houses has an idyllic location along the bank of the Allier river-facing volcanic cliffs. After lunch, we avoid the strenuous uphill mountain climb of almost 500m by enjoying a short transfer to the village of Le Vernet (14 mins) where we pick up our walk. From Vernet, our walk descends 4.5kms into the French town of Saugues rich in history and famous for its woodturning of clogs. Enjoy some free time in Saugues for about half an hour to explore the castle and town. Afterwards, we transfer to our accommodation (40 mins). Tonight we enjoy a feature stay in a historic chateau at the Le Chateau D’Orfeuillette, a unique 4-star hotel offering quirky modern interiors. Dinner tonight will be in the chateau’s 1 Michelin star restaurant offering modern cuisine with a regional flavour accompanied by French wines.

Day 2: Walk St Privat d'Allier to Saugues

Day 3

Day 3: Walk Nasbinals to Saint-Chély-d’Aubrac.

Distances: Whole walk 16.5km

Optional shorter walk: Walk 9km Nasbinals to Aubrac (this would mean you walk the first half of the day up until lunchtime. After lunch, you will be transferred to the village of Saint Chely d’aubrac for some rest. This option avoids a steep 7km downhill on rocky, uneven terrain.

This morning we enjoy a wonderful breakfast in the Chateau before transferring to the next section of our walk (38 mins). Today’s walk takes us from Nasbinals to Saint-Chély-d’Aubrac. We begin in Nasbinals a charming little village nestled at 1200 metres above sea level with a 12th-century church. From here our walk gradually climbs as it crosses the Aubrac plateau a UNESCO World Heritage site with volcanic granite landscapes, stark lakes, beech forests and open green hillsides with wildflowers during spring. We cross a stone bridge over a pretty stream before reaching the village of Pascalet. We traverse to the highest point of the Camino at 1324m before gradually descending into the small medieval village of Aubrac with its gothic church tower. The bells of the tower would help pilgrims in the middle ages find their way in stormy weather. We stop in this pretty town for lunch before continuing on to the villages of Belvezet and Del Sail. We descend into the charming village of Saint-Chély-d’Aubrac, with its stone cottages set in a beautiful green valley. Here we’ll enjoy some free time for about half an hour to explore the village. Afterwards, we transfer 55 mins to the remarkable Château de Labro a stylish and elegant luxury accommodation set in a historic castle with grand interiors, a gourmet restaurant, and swimming pool set amongst the vineyard your stay here will be truly unique.

Day 3: Walk Nasbinals to Saint-Chély-d'Aubrac.

Day 4

Day 4: Walk Espallion to Estaing

Distance: Espallion to Estaing (12km)

Optional shorter walks:
Optional shorter walk: Espallion to St Pierre (3.5km)
Optional shorter walk: St Pierre to Estaing (8.5km)
OR For those not wanting to join the afternoon walk, travel with our driver for free time in the villages.

Enjoy breakfast and some extra time in the chateau before we transfer back to the trail (30 mins). Our walk today takes us through the many beautiful villages of the Lot Valley from Espallion to Conques. We will have an early-ish picnic lunch at St Pierre church before we cross the old stone bridge over the Astruges river. After this there is a significant hill climb of roughly 250m, which we then decent. The terrain is then easy but exposed through the village of Le Briffoul, the church of Tredou and the village of Verrières. We arrive into the gorgeous medieval town of Estaing set on the banks of the river. This is a pretty town of turrets, castles, lantern-shaped roofs and dungeons. After sighting the village, we transfer to the beautiful town of Conques. Our accommodation tonight is the centre of Conques at the Hotel Saint Foy.

Day 5

Day 5: Grotto de Peche Merle Cave Paintings. Walk Grotto de Peche to St Cirq Lapopie

Distances: Total walking today 11kms morning 2kms + afternoon 9kms
Walk 1: 1-2kms Grotto de Peche Merle cave paintings.
Walk 2: Afternoon walk from Peche Merle to Saint Cirq Lapopie 9km.
Optional – miss afternoon walk: Guests have the option to skip the afternoon walk and spend free time in Saint Cirq Lapopie village if they don’t wish to walk.

After breakfast we farewell Conques and transfer to Grotto de Peche Merle. Along the way, we will enjoy a short stop in the town of Figeac which its medieval buildings and charm. We then continue on to Grotto de Peche Merle to visit the cave paintings, like that of the Spotted Horses which are over 29,000 years old. This is one of the few prehistoric cave painting sites in France that remain open to the general public. This vast 2km cave is adorned with nearly 700 prehistoric painted or engraved patterns. Afterwards, we’ll walk from Peche Merle to St Cirq Lapopie generally considered a moderately challenging route. We then transfer 45 minutes to our accommodation at Chateau Mercues. This special accommodation will be another highlight of your trip as we spend the evening in a 13th-century castle which overlooks the famous vineyard of Cahors. Formerly the residence of the Bishops of Cahors, this historic building has been transformed into an elegant hotel with lavish decor and antiques. The chateau is set amongst extensive gardens with an outdoor swimming pool. Before dinner, we enjoy pre-dinner drinks on the rooftop balcony of the castle overlooking the valley. Afterwards, we dine on the magnificent cuisine in the hotel restaurant created by the resident chef, with a range of perfectly chosen wines.

Day 5: Grotto de Peche Merle Cave Paintings. Walk Grotto de Peche to St Cirq Lapopie

Day 6

Day 6: Visit Auvillar. Walk Larresingle to Montreal de Gers

Distance: 12km+ extras around the village (3.5 hourws)

Walk option: 5km (the first half of the walk from Larresingle to Montreal)

After breakfast we depart the chateau and visit the Pont Valentre to explore a bit more closely before transferring to Larresingle. Enroute we will stop with some time at Auvillar (1 hr 15 mins). Located on the banks of the Garonne River, Auvillar was voted one of the most beautiful villages in France. After we continue our drive to Larresingle (1 hr) where we start our walk to Montreal. Along this route we will cross the stone bridge of Pont d’Artigues and the old Chapel de Routges and a chateau. Eventually we walk into Montreal de Gers, a charming town with medieval and half-timbered houses. From here we transfer (50 mins) to our accommodation for the evening, the 11th century La Monastère De Saint Mont. Once a monastery this property has been transformed into a chic and vibrant hotel. Enjoy a superb dinner featuring regional specialities and local wine.

Day 6: Visit Auvillar. Walk Larresingle to Montreal de Gers

Day 7

Day 7: Walk Gamarthe to Saint Jean Pied De Port – The Pyreenes

Distance: Total walk 13km
Shorter option: 5km from lunch until Saint Jean Pied de Port

After breakfast, we farewell our hotel and transfer to nearby Aire-sur-l’Adour to explore the town, a settlement has existed here since roman times although it is only a trace of the name that still exists. Afterwards we’ll transfer to the start of our last walk for the trip. (1 hr 40 mins). Today’s walk takes us from the small town of Gamarthe to Saint Jean Pied De Port in the Pyrenees. We cross the stone bridge over the river Bassaguibele and make our way to Col d’Oyhanzarre. On our walk, we pass many pretty Basque villages, beautiful rivers, chateaus and enjoy spectacular views of the Pyrenees. We eventually arrive at the gate of the old town of Saint Jean Pied de Port at the foot of the Pyrenees and our final destination. This charming town with its cobbled streets is always buzzing with lots of pilgrims with those that have walked from Le Puy and those starting their Camino Francés from here to Santiago in Spain. Our last night is spent in the charming Les Chemins D’Elika, an old coaching inn ideally located only 400m from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port’s citadel. Tonight enjoy a celebratory dinner in a local restaurant featuring authentic Basque food and wine. Your dinner companions will be your fellow travellers and those joining the Camino route from here into Spain.

Day 7: Walk Gamarthe to Saint Jean Pied De Port - The Pyreenes

Day 8

Day 8: Departure Day. Transfer to Bayonne

After breakfast we farewell everyone and those departing here will be transferred to Bayonne. (1 hour drive). Airport drops off at Biarritz airport are also available (4kms from Bayonne).

Direct flights operate throughout the day from Biarritz to Paris France (1 hour 20 min flight).

For those wanting to continue their trip please see our longer versions of this walk into Spain.

Day 8: Departure Day. Transfer to Bayonne

ACCOMMODATION

The Accommodation

Walking tour accommodation plays a key role in ensuring your journey is comfortable, relaxing and enjoyable from day to night. Whether it’s boutique lodges, cosy cabins or quality hotels, each night’s stay is carefully selected to match the experience and provide a welcoming place to unwind. After a rewarding day on the trail, walkers can look forward to a warm shower, a good night’s rest and often a hearty meal prepared with local ingredients.

Many walking tours include stays in scenic or historic settings, adding charm and character to the experience. With luggage transferred ahead each day, you can walk pack-free and arrive at your accommodation with everything ready. Friendly hosts, comfortable beds, and thoughtful amenities make it easy to recharge for the next day’s adventure. Quality accommodation not only supports your physical rest but also enriches your journey with moments of relaxation, reflection and connection along the way.

DATES & AVAILABILITY

Currency Converter

Amount From Currency To Currency Converted Amount

Dates & Availability

Prices in the table are noted in AUD – use the above currency convertor to calculate costs in your own currency.

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS
Please note your tour price does not include flights to / from the countries visited. We are offering our clients a service to book their international flights and any other travel plans during their holiday. If you would like our Flights Specialist to organise these requirements please email us at flights@lifesanadventure.com.au with your requirements.

PRIVATE GROUPS:
Departure date of your choice is subjective to availability. A minimum group size of 8 required. Prices are equal to Past Travellers’ discounted rates. Based on twin share – see details about Single Supplement and upgrade extras.
Please contact us for more details on (02) 9975 4553 or email: walks@lifesanadventure.com.au
________________________________________

SOLO TRAVELLERS & EXTRAS:
SOLO TRAVELLERS WILLING TO SHARE
If you are a solo traveller willing to share a room, we will attempt to match you with another solo traveller of the same gender. If we can’t find you a match of the same gender by around 12 weeks prior to the tour, you will be charged the single supplement cost. Subject to availability at time of booking.

SOLO TRAVELLERS
WANTING THEIR OWN ROOM
For those wanting to guarantee their own room, a single supplement cost will be charged at the time of booking. Subject to availability.

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: $1500
________________________________________

FlexiWalk – Cancel for Any Reason:
Purchase a FlexiWalk Add-On for normal price tickets and cancel 96 hours prior to departure for any reason. Price: $295 per person. See conditions below for full details.
________________________________________

BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Before you book please read our Booking Terms and Conditions. Click here.

SALE TICKET CONDITIONS:
* Super Earlybird, Earlybird and Spot Special Sale Tickets: Must be paid in full at time of booking. Refunds or cancellations are not permitted for Sale Tickets however, transfers to another date are permitted 8 weeks or more prior to departure. We advise taking out travel insurance in case unexpected circumstances prior to the trip, prevent you from joining this tour. Early bird or Spot Special discounts cannot be used in conjunction with another offer. We have partnered with Cover-More to provide travel insurance to our guests. To get a quote or purchase travel insurance directly with them Click here. To receive these special discounts, full payment must be made at the time of initial booking. Flexiwalk Add-On option not available on these tickets.
* Those who have travelled with Life’s An Adventure previously, receive a past passenger discount of $100. This discount will automatically be deducted from future bookings when you book online using the same email address used for past bookings.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
* Prices are per person in Australian dollars and include GST.
* A deposit of $500 per person is required to secure your booking. (unless taking advantage of Earlybird or Spot Specials in which full payment is required at time of booking).
* Note: If you are booking within 120 days of your departure date – we will require full payment at the time of booking
* Prices are based on twin share of rooms. If you are travelling solo you may be required to share with someone of the same gender. If this is not suitable you can request to pay a single supplement, however, limited single rooms are available per trip so are on a request basis.
* Credit Card fees apply or contact us for bank transfer payment options. The following fees apply. Australian Credit Cards including Visa and Mastercard 1% +$0.20 per transaction, International Credit Cards including Visa and Mastercard 3.4% + $0.30 per transaction (payments in AUD).
* Payments must be made online via our NAB (National Australia Bank) secure payment page via credit card (Visa or Mastercard) or over the phone.
* We advise taking our Travel Insurance to cover items such as cancellation of tour due to minimum numbers not met, or adverse weather conditions, injury, evacuation, delayed flights, illness, etc. Click here
* Credit for cancelled activities. If a tour activity has been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances a credit for this missed activity can be applied to any future bookings. Click here.
* FlexiWalk Option – Cancel for any Reason Click here for full conditions on our FlexiWalk Option.

REVIEWS

SIMILIAR TOURS

French Camino Walking Tours

Embark on a soul-stirring journey with Life’s An Adventure on our French Camino Walking Tours. Follow historic pilgrimage routes through charming villages, rolling countryside, and iconic landmarks, immersing yourself in culture, history, and spirituality. Expert guides ensure a seamless experience, with carefully planned walks, boutique accommodation, and local culinary delights. With luggage transfers included, you can focus entirely on the journey ahead. Discover the magic and tranquility of the French Camino, step by step.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS TOUR

Spanish Camino Walking Tours

Experience the legendary pilgrimage with Life’s An Adventure on our Spanish Camino Walking Tours. Traverse historic routes, quaint villages, and stunning landscapes, from lush countryside to iconic cathedrals. Expert guides provide insight into the culture, history, and traditions of this remarkable journey, while boutique accommodation, local cuisine, and luggage transfers ensure a stress-free experience. Whether seeking reflection, adventure, or camaraderie, the Spanish Camino offers an unforgettable walking holiday that inspires the spirit and creates lifelong memories.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS TOUR

Portugese Camino Walking Tours

Discover the beauty and tradition of Portugal with Life’s An Adventure on our Portuguese Camino Walking Tours. Walk historic pilgrimage routes along scenic coastal paths, charming villages, and lush countryside. Expert guides lead each step, sharing local history, culture, and hidden gems, while boutique accommodation, delicious regional cuisine, and luggage transfers make your journey effortless. Whether seeking reflection, adventure, or connection, the Portuguese Camino offers a rewarding and unforgettable walking experience through some of Portugal’s most inspiring landscapes.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS TOUR

ENQUIRE NOW CLICK TO CALL

VIEW BROCHURE & FULL ITINERARY

LAA_Japan_Kumano_Kodo_Brochure_Spread_Mockup

DOWNLOAD THE BROCHURE

PHOTO GALLERY

Browse photo’s from this walking tour to see what others have experienced.

GENERAL ENQUIRIES

Start a conversation with Lifes An Adventure.

FRENCH CAMINO WALKING TOURS

FRENCH CAMINO WALKING TOURS

11 Days / 8 Cities

TOUR INFORMATION

Pack Free Walking Tours

Local Wines

Local Foods

Local Guides

This is an all-inclusive tour with no hidden extras:

SUPERB ACCOMMODATION:

WONDERFUL MEALS & WINE:

GUIDES & TRANSFERS:

Day 1: Arrival day. Transfer from Lyon. Walk St Christophe-sur-Donaison to Le Puy. France

Day 2: Walk St Privat d’Allier to Saugues

Day 3: Walk Nasbinals to Saint-Chély-d’Aubrac.

Day 4: Walk Espallion to Estaing

Day 5: Grotto de Peche Merle Cave Paintings. Walk Grotto de Peche to St Cirq Lapopie

Day 6: Visit Auvillar. Walk Larresingle to Montreal de Gers

Day 7: Walk Gamarthe to Saint Jean Pied De Port – The Pyreenes

Day 8: Departure Day. Transfer to Bayonne

The Accommodation

Currency Converter

Dates & Availability

French Camino Walking Tours

Spanish Camino Walking Tours

Portugese Camino Walking Tours

VIEW BROCHURE & FULL ITINERARY

PHOTO GALLERY

GENERAL ENQUIRIES

WALKING IS ONLY PART OF THE ADVENTURE

Lifes An Adventure

Quick Links

Walking Tours

Contact Information