Discover sustainable travel in France! Explore responsible walking and cycling tours, via ferrata climbing, and gastronomy tours. Carbon removals included! Packages customizable.

Sustainable Travel in France | Yugen Earthside

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Yugen Earthside connects mindful travelers to responsible package trips around the world. CARBON REMOVALS INCLUDED WITH EACH BOOKING!

Connecting mindful travelers to responsible experiences around the world.

Prices exclude flights to/from the destination.

Prices are for double room occupancy unless indicated otherwise.

We proudly partner with wanderwell, a B-Corp-certified travel insurance agency and 1% for the Planet member.

Request a FREE quote for Trip Protection or Travel Medical coverage.

Discover self-guided, privately-guided, & small group tours around the world. Our sustainable adventures are customizable, and include carbon removals with each booking!

Trips | Yugen Earthside | Sustainable Adventures

Immerse yourself in the alluring Luberon National Park in Provence as you hike through picturesque villages, valleys, vineyards, & fields.

[8 days] Hiking in the Luberon National Park | Yugen Earthside

Immerse yourself in the alluring Luberon National Park in Provence as you hike through picturesque villages, valleys, vineyards, & fields. There are countless treasures to unveil in this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve!

The Luberon is a beloved region in the heart of Provence, world-famous for its natural beauty, charming towns, rolling vineyards, and expansive lavender fields.

Beginning in the town of Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, with its antiques and Venice-like canals, your journey will take you through the mysterious springs of Fontaine de Vaucluse, famed villages such as Gordes and Bonnieux, the spectacular Aiguebrun river, and some of France's most beautiful walking paths to link it all together.

A combination of linear and circular walks helps you 'slow travel' through the Luberon, staying at most accommodations two nights in a row.

Take scenic hikes showcasing the ancient perched villages of Gordes and Bonnieux

Follow paths nestled in the heart of Luberon through fields dotted with old stone huts

Lose yourself amidst the captivating labyrinth of narrow streets in Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

Roam the vibrant Senanque Abbey Lavender Market, surrounded by lavender fields

Traverse mountains and valleys, taking in scenic views of the Alps & the Mediterranean Sea

Uncover the architectural splendor of Romanesque and Renassaince buildings

A two-night stay at the unique and special Auberge des Seguins

With each turn in your path, the Luberon Mountains offer a new discovery. You'll visit 1000-year-old perched villages, rising spectacularly from the valleys below, many of which are considered the most beautiful in France. (The "Most Beautiful Villages of France" is an official accolade.)

You'll cross open fields laden with poppies and wildflowers, spot centuries-old stone huts that offer the most intimate of picnic spots, and wander beautiful trails far off the beaten track. 

We recommend starting your walking tour on a Saturday so you enjoy the 'Venice of Provence', Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, on Sunday. Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is renowned for its quintessential Sunday morning market, the Senanque Abbey surrounded by lavender fields, Fontaine-de-Vaucluse and the source of the Sorgue River, and the outstanding perched villages of Gordes and Bonnieux. Strolling through Isle-sur-la-Sorgue's vibrant farmers' market on Sunday will be the ideal place to buy fresh, local picnic supplies before heading out on your hike.

You can book this trip from March to mid-November.

The low season is from March 1st to 31st & from October 1st to November 15th.

The high season is from April 1st to June 26th & from August 27th to September 30th. 

The weather in the Luberon area is Mediterranean, with mild winters and warm to hot summers. The Luberon receives little precipitation and has moderate humidity, allowing pleasant conditions for outdoor activities.

March to May: Spring brings mild temperatures between 60°F and 70°F and vibrant landscapes adorned with blooming wildflowers. The trails are less crowded, providing a serene hiking experience. Note: Spring is usually too early for the lavender blooms! 

June to August: Summers will be hot and dry, potentially closing trails due to fire risk. This season is also crowded with tourists. We don't recommend this tour for most of these months.

September to November: Fall brings reprieve with more comfortable temperatures, and paints the landscapes with stunning fall colors.

To ensure both comfort and sustainability, we strongly recommend planning your trip for the spring or fall. This helps with tourism dispersal and the alleviation of congestion at peak times. You'll have a more pleasant experience, explore the natural beauty of the region at a more relaxed pace, and have a positive impact on the local communities and environment.

All dinners except at Auberge des Seguins

Transportation to/from Isle-sur-la-Sorgue on D1 & D8

7 nights double occupancy with private facilities

Taxi transfer from Isle-sur-la-Sorgue to Fontaine de Vaucluse (D2)

Taxi transfer from Buoux to Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (D8)

A full travel kit (welcome letter, vouchers, daily summary, luggage tags)

Road Book with detailed walking itineraries & integrated maps

Low Season: Mar. 1st - May 14th; Oct. 1st - Nov. 15th

Our tours offer a unique and eco-friendly way to explore a country on foot or by bike. We believe that tourism can positively impact society in several ways. Firstly, walking and cycling are pollution-free modes of transportation, allowing you to travel in an eco-responsible manner. Additionally, these activities promote physical fitness and provide a rejuvenating break from everyday routines and stress.

By traveling at a slower pace, you have the opportunity to fully enjoy the tours, meet people, and immerse yourself in local culture. We prioritize authentic experiences, introducing you to local accommodations, restaurants, artisans, and farmers. We strive to support sustainable development and responsible tourism by working with small, local, and family-run establishments.

Acknowledging that travel does generate CO2 emissions, we aim to reduce our carbon footprint and have partnered with Reforest'Action, a B Corp company. We calculate the average emissions produced by transportation on our trips and plant trees to offset these emissions. Each traveler's participation results in the planting of one tree, contributing to forest preservation and the development of carbon sinks. Additionally, your actions support the purchase of carbon credits associated with certified forest conservation projects. You can also extend your impact by purchasing and planting additional trees to reduce your carbon footprint in other areas.

Overall, our tours offer a fulfilling and sustainable travel experience, combining the exploration of beautiful landscapes, the appreciation of diverse cultures, and a commitment to environmental responsibility.

This trip was designed to discover must-sees but also off-the-beaten places such as the hidden Aiguebrun Valley and the converted goat's farm Auberge des Seguins. In this way, we promote tourism dispersal, which helps alleviate the negative impacts of mass tourism. We also try to minimize our impacts on the environment by choosing small hotels and guesthouses and using as less transfers as possible. 

We use small hotels & guesthouses, supporting local businesses and contributing to the local economy. The places you will visit take you off the beaten path. In this way, we distribute tourism income more evenly and support lesser-known communities. This diversification of tourism also stimulates economic growth, creates job opportunities, and encourages the development of sustainable tourism initiatives in previously overlooked areas.

A highlight of this tour is the two-night stay at the Auberge des Seguins: Hidden at the base of the Aiguebrun gorge, beside the only river in the mountain, and at the very end of the road, Les Seguins is both storybook scenic and peaceful. And with no television, Wi-Fi, or cell phone reception, we’re taken back in time, blissfully. All that’s left is watching the swifts dance atop the soaring limestone cliffs, or relaxing in a lounge chair in the open field, facing the centuries-old golden stone buildings. We’re taken back in time, too, by the restaurant and hotel signs, written not only in French but also in Provençal: a language that your three young hosts speak fluently. Dinner is family-style, with home-cooked Provençal specialties – like lamb shoulder braised with olive purée – served in a large casserole for the whole table, near the huge roaring fireplace. Breakfast is also “communal”: eaten on large farm tables, with no bells and whistles but with the freshest pieces of bread and tasty homemade jams. 

We’re in an age where the hotel and restaurant business moves farther toward all that is modern and sophistic-chic, towards sterile monotony, towards overly fancy restaurant concoctions unrecognizable by name and taste, and towards pamper-me-and-embrace-my-posterior service. The Auberge des Seguins is none of that, for better or worse. We think (we’re convinced) for the better. Some history: The name Seguins derives from the Waldensian (a reformed religious group) family of the same name that lived here centuries ago. The Waldensians were massacred in the 16th century throughout the Luberon mountains. The oldest buildings standing today were built in the 17th century, long after the Seguins had left. In 1850 the hamlet was shared by three farming families, and by 1960, when it was purchased by the Pessemesse family to build a hotel, the hamlet was run as a goat farm. The Pessemesse family still runs the Auberge today, by sisters Amélie and Estelle, and brother Simon.

Be sure you have traveler's insurance.
It's recommended to be in good physical condition to do this trip.

Embark on a hiking adventure from the enchanting hilltop villages in Nice's backcountry to the azure coast of the French Riviera.

[8 Days] Hiking from Hilltop Villages to the Riviera | Yugen Earthside

This self-guided trip provides a great contrast between walking through the mountains and along sun-drenched coastal trails. There will be many swimming opportunities in the Mediterranean Sea along the way! 

Savour French/Italian fusion in architecture, culture, & cuisine

Roam through idyllic villages nestled in wooded valleys, surrounded by mountains

Immerse yourself in the colorful markets of Breil sur Roya, Sospel, & Menton

Hike to Sainte Agnès, a gem of France's perched villages (& the highest coastline village!)

Stroll along the Mediterranean Sea's stunning shores

Wander the cobblestone streets of Eze & discover scenic Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Relax in the fishermen's town of Villefranche sur Mer

Behind the French Riviera’s glamour, timeless villages are hidden, tucked away in lush valleys and resting atop rocky crags. The ancient paths wind through forests and follow majestic olive groves. Perched high above the sea, the panoramic views from the hilltop villages are stunning and breathtaking. The centuries-old route eventually leads you straight to the beautiful town of Menton, the last stop along the French Riveria before reaching the Italian border.

The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. We generally recommend this trip from March to mid-November.

March to May: Spring ushers in blossoming landscapes and colorful, picturesque settings. The mild temperatures range from 50°F to 68°F, ideal for hiking. Trails may be muddy from winter rains, so it's advisable to take waterproof hiking gear with you. You shouldn't expect big crowds on the trails or in the villages, making for a pleasant experience.

June to August: Summers are dry and can have very high temperatures (~86°F), especially in July and August. If you travel during these peak months, your hikes should be done early in the morning to try to beat the heat. Coastal towns offer opportunities for refreshing swims in the Mediterranean alongside crowds of tourists. 

September to November: Autumn is another ideal season for this trip with pleasant temperatures ranging from 59°F to 77°F. You'll enjoy the welcome coastal breezes and colorful foliage. The tourist traffic begins to wane, especially in October and November.

To ensure both comfort and sustainability, we highly recommend taking this trip in the spring or autumn. By traveling during less crowded months, you can contribute to tourism dispersal. This helps lessen the environmental impact on the trail and helps spread the economic benefits of tourism beyond the peak season. Plus, you'll get to enjoy a more tranquil experience along the French Riviera!

Transportation from Menton to Villefranche with your bags 4.20€ pp (D5)

Transportation from Villefranche to Eze and return 1.80€ pp (D6)

Train: Sospel train station to Sospel guesthouse (D1)

Train: Sospel guesthouse to Breil sur Roya (D2)

Low Season: Mar. 1st - 31st; Oct. 1st - Nov. 15th

High Season: Apr. 1st - Jun. 26th; Aug. 27th - Sep. 30th

In order to act in a responsible way towards the environment, this trip guarantees to and from route transportation by train. Choosing train travel over other modes of transportation, such as airplanes or cars, significantly reduces carbon emissions. Throughout the adventure, we will be staying 2 nights in each place, except for the day we visit Menton. In this way we promote slow tourism, reducing transportation impact, supporting local economies, and deeply connecting with the local culture. 

As hiking is a low-carbon impact activity, our trip is environmentally friendly. 

We highlight the local market days, use trains whenever possible (between Menton and Villefranche / Eze), and also upon arrival and departure.

We use very small guesthouses and a simple Auberge, they serve local food and try to make a special effort regarding recycling, zero plastic use, eco-friendly cleaning products, and energy and water savings.

Hiking from the Hilltop Villages to the French Riviera

Discover off-the-beaten-path wine trails of Provence, hiking from Châteauneuf du Pape to Côtes du Rhône, & visiting medieval cities in between. Carbon removals included!

[9 days] Sustainable Hiking Tour: Wine Trails of Provence | Yugen Earthside

Discover off-the-beaten-path wine trails of Provence, hiking from Châteauneuf du Pape to Côtes du Rhône, while visiting medieval cities in between. 

Your journey will start in the Historic Center of Avignon (a UNESCO site) and end in the medieval town of Vaison la Romaine, filled with archaeological delights. Along the way, you'll taste robust reds Châteauneuf du Pape, sweet, white Muscats from Côtes du Rhône, and plenty more.

This trip is the ideal combination of hiking, relaxing, tasting good food, and enjoying delectable wine in Provence!

Wander through famed vineyards in Châteauneuf du Pape, tasting red & white wines

Indulge in French cuisine: baguettes, goats cheese, ratatouille & Côtes du Rhône wines

Explore the Historic Center of Avignon, a UNESCO site where history echoes in every cobblestone

Hike along quiet farms and take in sweeping vistas like Mont Ventoux, the "Giant of Provence"

Roam the Rhone Valley's untamed slopes to discover enigmatic church ruins & cave dwellings

Uncover Roman traditions by exploring the vastness of France's largest archaeological site

Stay in the picturesque villages of Séguret, Le Barroux, & Vaison la Romaine

Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the sun-kissed vineyards of Provence! Start in the enchanting embrace of Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and conclude your adventure amidst the medieval allure of Vaison la Romaine.

Châteauneuf du Pape is Southern France’s most prestigious wine village: grapes have been grown there for 850 years. The Popes brought the vines to this area in the 14th century and, thanks to the amazing growing conditions, many world-renowned and prized vintages have been produced.

The best way to discover the vineyards of Provence is by foot, strolling between the vines from one estate to the next. Vineyards are commonly run by the same families for generations, and you’ll have lots of wine-tasting opportunities on this sustainable Provençal walking tour.

You will pass through Séguret and Gigondas, two medieval villages perched high over the Rhône valley, framed by never-ending seas of reputed vineyards. From Gigondas, you approach the Dentelles de Montmirail, a set of jagged limestone teeth that soar high and defiantly over the Rhône Valley: a playground for magnificent walking and scenery!

You then walk towards the foot of Mont Ventoux (the "Giant of Provence") – through orchards and vineyards, with extraordinary panoramas and a large diversity of landscapes. At 6,263 ft in altitude, Mont Ventoux is Provence’s highest peak. Its remarkable silhouette paints the backdrop of this scenic exploration of Provence. 

You can book this trip from March to mid-November, but really we recommend between March and June or between September to mid-November.

Provence enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters, providing plenty of days of sunshine. The precipitation levels in the region are relatively low and there can be strong and cold winds. 

March to June: Springtime is ideal for hiking as the trails are less crowded, the wineries are open for tastings, and the countryside is alive with vibrant wildflowers. The weather is agreeably mild, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 68°F.

July to August: During summer, this trip is possible, though not ideal. The weather is particularly dry and hot, so hikes would need to be completed in the morning. Importantly, there may be possible trail closures, and access to hiking paths may be closed or be time-restricted if the risk of fires is high in the Dentelles & Ventoux areas. The local prefecture informs the following day's access by phone. Be sure to get this information if you choose to travel during these months.*

September to Mid-November: Fall offers lovely hiking conditions with temperatures from 59°F to 77°F, and the autumnal landscape is filled with shades of red, orange, and gold. As this is the harvest season, you can witness vineyards and olive groves bustling with activity.

*Any additional cost for extra transfers due to weather-related restrictions (or for any personal reason) will be at your own expense. Trail closures can also sometimes affect June and September, though this is not as likely as in July and August. 

8 nights at hand-picked small guesthouses or 2/3-star hotels

Transfer from Avignon to Châteauneuf du Pape (D2)

Transfer from Châteauneuf du Pape to Séguret (D4)

Half-day, guided wine tour (non private): 95 € pp

Participate in a half-day wine tour of the Southern Rhône's premium wine villages. A local wine expert will reveal a wealth of secrets about the vines and explain the key elements of the wine-making process as you visit the cellar and taste four to five wines at a local wine estate (depending on the wine expert, you'll visit 1 or 2 wine estates). The tasting characteristics, aging potential, and varying influences of the terroir and cellar methods will all be described.

Low Season: Mar. 1st - 27th; Oct. 29th - Nov. 26th

Mid Season: Mar. 28th - Jun. 24th; Sep. 1st - Oct. 28th

Our tours offer a unique and eco-friendly way to explore a country on foot or by bike, allowing you to travel in a pollution-free manner. Walking and cycling not only provide an eco-responsible mode of transportation but also promote physical activity and mental well-being, allowing you to break free from daily routines and stress.

By moving to the slow rhythm of our footsteps or our pedal strokes, we take the time to observe the landscapes, meet the local population, and find our freedom of movement. In this way, our trips allow travelers to fully immerse in the places they are visiting. We prioritize sustainable and responsible tourism by partnering with small local accommodations and supporting the local economy.

To minimize our carbon footprint, we have partnered with Reforest'Action to offset the CO2 emissions generated by our trips. Through tree planting and the purchase of carbon credits, we aim to contribute to forest preservation and the development of carbon sinks.

By participating in our tours, you not only experience the world up close but also actively support the fight against the negative consequences of tourism and promote a greener form of travel.

Throughout this self-guided tour, we prioritize sustainability by emphasizing the importance of minimizing waste. Our aim is to leave a minimal impact on the environment and promote a cleaner, healthier planet. 

We are also committed to serving local food, preferably sourced from organic producers. By supporting local farmers and businesses, we not only ensure that you have a truly authentic culinary experience but also contribute to the local economy and reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation.

In addition to our food choices, we are conscious of using eco-friendly cleaning products to minimize harm to the environment. We believe in responsible tourism practices that extend to all aspects of our operations, including the products we use to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. Water and energy conservation are also key priorities during the tour. The accommodations we chose are trying to reduce waste and use refilled toiletry items, serve as many local products as possible, and implement water & energy-saving measures. We encourage responsible water usage and provide information on how to minimize water waste. Similarly, we promote energy-saving measures to reduce our ecological impact. By incorporating these practices into our tour operations, we strive to create a sustainable travel experience that respects and preserves the natural resources of the destinations we visit.

In our roadbook, we emphasize the socio-cultural positive impact of our tour. We believe that travel should go beyond sightseeing and offer meaningful interactions with local communities and their traditions.

By highlighting the locations of local markets each day, we encourage you to stroll through these vibrant spaces. It provides you with a unique opportunity to engage with local vendors, taste regional delicacies, and witness the lively atmosphere. These interactions allow you to learn about traditional food practices, support small-scale farmers and artisans, and develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of their customs and traditions.

Furthermore, we provide information on wine and olive oil tastings along the way. These experiences allow you to delve into the rich culinary heritage of the region, learn about wine production techniques, and appreciate the artistry of olive oil making. By visiting these establishments, you not only savor the flavors but also support local winemakers and olive oil producers, contributing to the preservation of traditional craftsmanship.

We have nurtured long-term relationships with small guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, and hotels that are locally owned and operated. Whenever possible, we prioritize partnering with these establishments to support the local economy and contribute to the sustainable development of the region.

By choosing these small-scale accommodations, we ensure that a significant portion of the revenue generated from your stay goes directly into the hands of local entrepreneurs. This not only helps them sustain their businesses but also creates employment opportunities for the local community.

Moreover, our tour is carefully designed to include lesser-known and off-the-beaten-path places in Provence. By exploring these hidden gems, you will have the opportunity to experience the authentic essence of the region and support local providers. From visiting local markets to engaging in wine or olive oil tastings, we guide you toward experiences that connect you with the local economy and cultural heritage.

During your journey, you will have the chance to support approximately 10 local providers in the region. This includes not only your accommodations but also interactions with local artisans, farmers, and producers. By purchasing their products, participating in their activities, and engaging in their services, you contribute directly to the economic sustainability of these individuals and their communities.

Embark on a thrilling four-day adventure in the southern French Alps, tackling a selection of exhilarating via ferrata climbing routes! Carbon removals included.

[5 days] Via Ferrata: Climbing in the French Alps | Yugen Earthside

Embark on a thrilling four-day adventure in the southern French Alps, tackling a selection of exhilarating via ferrata climbing routes!

'Via ferrata' (literally: an iron path) refers to a specific type of alpine climbing in which steel infrastructure such as ladders, rungs, railings, and cables are securely integrated into rock faces to help safely assist climbers. Climbers can grab onto, or clip onto, the metal elements as they traverse a path.

A via ferrata experience is not only a traditional adventure in this part of France but also a unique way to enjoy nature and the outdoors in the Alps, especially during the snowless seasons.

Feel the excitement of climbing sheer cliffs, crossing wire bridges, and zipping down giant tyroleans as you immerse yourself in the stunning alpine terrain. 

Escape on a long weekend adventure amongst the Alps' best via ferratas

Accomplish 7 spectacular via ferrata routes, and take 3 exhilarating zip lines

Climb on both limestone and granite rock faces

Soak in diverse landscapes: from deep gorges to towering cliffs

Enjoy a Small-Group experience with a maximum of 8 people per guide

Feel safe and secure, always in the presence of your qualified guide

Discover Gap, the scenic capital of the southern French Alps

Participate in ethical travel with a responsible company

Discover the thrill of via ferratas in the southern French Alps, home to France's highest concentration of these adventurous via ferrata routes! This exciting, 4-day short break includes scaling historic via ferratas like the first one built in France at Freissinières and the renowned Grande Fistoire, complete with giant tyrolean zip lines. 

You will be based in the charming town of Gap, the gateway to these diverse via ferrata experiences. Each day, your guide will pick you up, lead your alpine adventures and valley explorations, and then drop you off at your hotel. Lunches (not included in trip price) will be a mix of picnics and restaurant meals, with the day's best option chosen collectively based on the group's preference and the guide's advice.

The via ferratas vary in difficulty, allowing you to progressively build your skills and confidence. The routes offer flexibility to accommodate different skill levels within the group. 
Upon returning to Gap, expect lively evenings exploring local cafes and restaurants.  Gap enjoys a vibrant restaurant and bar scene, and our team is available to recommend and book the best local spots. Dinners are at your own cost.

The optimal period for a via ferrata trip in the French Alps is from May to October.

For a more tranquil experience, we advise visiting outside the French school holidays in July and August. Avoiding July and August will reward you with less crowded via ferrata routes and a more serene and enjoyable climbing experience.

Availability for this trip based on Mon Hotel Gap accommodation:

October 18: 6 more spots required to guarantee departure

Availability for this trip based on Hotel les Olivades accommodation:

Your personal travel arrangements to and from Gap

Lunches, which vary between picnics and restaurant meals depending on the day

Evening meals and drinks at restaurants in Gap

Tips for the guide, which are at your discretion

4 nights' B&B accommodation in a 3* hotel

4 days of guided via ferrata climbing with a UIAGM high mountain guide

All required via ferrata climbing and safety gear (helmet, harness, shock-absorbing cow's tails, ropes)

Transportation to and from via ferrata locations

A tree planted for carbon offsetting on your behalf

A personalized app with all holiday details for your smartphone.

We are Travelife Certified and we plant a tree with our partner, Mossy Earth, for all our travelers as part of their rewilding program in Europe.

We operate a paperless office and all our communication with you and all your trip details will be given to you digitally via a smartphone app.

If you are traveling from Europe, we offer a 3% discount if you travel here by train rather than plane. To claim this please ask at booking. It is not accumulable with other discounts and the train journey needs to be international, eg Eurostar to France and then onward on local French TGV or trains.

This via ferrata tour in the French Alps is environmentally sustainable due to several key practices.

We encourage you to bring your own re-fillable water bottle and reusable lunch boxes so that we can minimize single-use plastic.

We follow local guidelines to protect cliff-nesting birds during mating seasons and other fragile fauna and use local guides, who are passionate about the environment, ensuring a respectful approach to nature. 

To reduce transportation impact, the tour groups everyone into a single, modern, well-maintained minibus. 

These measures collectively contribute to minimizing the environmental footprint while supporting local ecosystems and communities.

This tour boosts economic sustainability by primarily using local guides, ensuring that the money spent by tourists goes directly back into the local economy. It also avoids economic leakage by being managed by a local destination company. The tour supports local communities further by utilizing locally owned accommodation and actively recommending local restaurants. This approach ensures that the benefits of tourism are directly felt by the community and help in sustaining the local economy.

The socio-cultural sustainability of this tour is underscored by its respect for and promotion of local cultures and traditions. By employing local guides and recommending local eateries, the tour facilitates meaningful interactions between visitors and residents, fostering mutual understanding and respect. 

This tour also contributes to socio-cultural sustainability by including visits to a range of via ferratas, including the first one in the Alps. This aspect educates tourists about the cultural importance of via ferratas and their origins in Italy, which is just over the border from France and where they were invented. This historical and cultural education enhances the tour's value, promoting an understanding and appreciation of the regional heritage and the significant role of via ferratas in Alpine culture.

All our guides are fully qualified to European standards and use up-to-date and tested safety equipment for the via ferratas. We use an additional safety rope for all our group via ferrata trips, too.

The via ferratas themselves are maintained by the commune and we respect any maintenance closures or advice, meaning we may change the itinerary if there is a safety risk we need to consider. This also includes changing the itinerary if the weather is unfavorable. We reserve the right to change the itinerary and even cancel a day if we deem the conditions unsafe due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control.

Please note that while we do everything we can to ensure your safety on this trip, this is an activity in the mountains where there are always risks, such as rock falls.

Sep 19: 2 required to guarantee departure

Hike amongst the magnificent mountains of the Southern French Alps on this gourmet walking holiday and revel in local culinary delights. Carbon removals included!

[8 days] Gourmet Walking Holiday in the French Alps | Yugen Earthside

Hike amongst the magnificent mountains of the Southern French Alps on this gourmet walking holiday and revel in local culinary delights.

This trail is the ultimate paradise for food-loving hikers keen to discover the dishes and flavors of the Alps!

Experience diverse and breathtaking mountain trails

Explore some of Europe's most stunning Alpine landscapes

Indulge in a unique culinary adventure with carefully selected local chefs

Benefit from knowledgeable local guides and wildlife specialists

Enjoy a stress-free holiday - simply arrive and relish the experience

Contribute to responsible and sustainable tourism practices

THE HIKING:
This guided trekking adventure offers a diverse array of landscapes, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience each day. We've handpicked what we believe are the finest trails in the region.

You will discover the stunning Ecrins National Park and traverse the Champsaur Valley with its unique 'bocage' farming, which integrates environmental conservation practices. You'll also cross picturesque Alpine meadows and venture into the Valgaudemar Valley, often referred to as the 'miniature Himalayas'. This valley boasts high-altitude lakes, glaciers, and blooming meadows!

Along the way, anticipate encounters with wildlife like chamois, ibex, golden eagles, vultures, deer, wild boar, and even wolves, amidst a backdrop of alpine flowers, including rare orchids. Your expert local guide, who is also a wildlife specialist, will highlight the area's remarkable flora and fauna.

THE CULINARY EXPERIENCE:
For this exclusive gastronomic walking tour in the Alps, we have carefully selected two exceptional accommodations known for their culinary excellence.

The first is the Luxury Farmhouse Guesthouse, a stylishly modernized traditional stone farmhouse. Here, Chef Meg from Taiwan brings a creative flair to Alpine dishes, infusing them with an Asian twist.

The second accommodation, Val des Sources, is a quintessentially Alpine hotel nestled in the Valgaudemar valley. Here, you'll indulge in authentic French Alpine cuisine crafted by Chef Collette, whose expertise in traditional Alpine dishes is evident. Each meal is a journey through Alpine flavors, complemented by fine wines selected by her husband and wine expert, Claude.

For lunches, some days you will picnic in the mountains and on other days you have the option of eating in a local restaurant. Please note, lunch costs are not included and are at your own expense.

The ideal time for hiking in the Alps varies depending on what experience you're seeking.

May to June is a magical period when the melting snow gives way to raging rivers, and the landscape is reborn with vibrant spring flowers, fluttering butterflies, and fresh green leaves. This is also when marmots, adorable alpine mammals, begin to emerge.

July and August, which coincide with school holidays, come with weather that tends to be hot, though mornings are pleasantly cooler. These months are busier, as many tourists flock to the Alps for summer vacations.

September to October is perfect for those preferring a more tranquil experience. The trails are quieter, the autumn colors start to paint the landscape, and the cooler temperatures create ideal conditions for comfortable day-long hikes in the mountains. 

Each season offers its unique charm, making the Alps a splendid destination throughout these months.

Any additional activities on your free day

Additional drinks or specific wine choices

Restaurant or picnic lunches (depending on day and wishes)

7 nights' accommodation in hand-chosen hotels and guest houses famous for their delicious cuisine

6 Breakfasts with a glass of house wine, 6 Dinners

5 days of guided walking with a fully qualified and local professional

Transport by minibus to and from your walks and activities

Return transfers from Gap train station to your accommodation

An App for your smartphone with all the details you need for your holiday from A to Z

A tree planted on your behalf to help with your carbon offsetting

We have purposefully chosen a two-base stay rather than changing accommodations each night on this trip to avoid unnecessary washing and cleaning of rooms after just one night and avoid excessive baggage transfers, both of which are known sustainability issues in tourism.
Your fully qualified hiking guides are also vetted for their passion for the area and local knowledge of plants, wildlife, and sustainability measures for protecting fragile mountain flora and fauna. They will share this knowledge with you and ensure you are respecting local guidelines, like not picking flowers in the national park.

We use local independent suppliers and accommodations for all elements of this trip to ensure your money is plowed straight back into the local economy.

Your fully qualified hiking guide is also local to the area, rather than a helicoptered-in gap year student or other non-local person. We pay them a fair rate ensuring there is no exploitation and making sure your money is going back into the local economy also. 

Our choice of accommodations is important as we have handpicked these boutique accommodations as they are locally owned and both culturally important in the area offering an insight into local Alpine food and culture for you and ensuring your money is plowed straight back into the local economy.

Gourmet Walking Holiday in the French Alps

Venture from the snow-covered Alps to the lush lavender fields of Provence via e-bike on this guided cycling tour. Carbon removals included!

[8 days] E-Bike from the Alps to Provence – Guided Cycling Tour | Yugen Earthside

Venture from the snow-covered Alps to the lush lavender fields of Provence via e-bike on this guided cycling tour.

France

Hiking in the Luberon National Park

Hiking from the Hilltop Villages to the French Riviera

Hiking the Wine Trails of Provence

Via Ferrata: Climbing in the French Alps

Gourmet Walking Holiday in the French Alps

E-Bike from the Alps to Provence – Guided Cycling Tour

Hiking in the Southern French Alps

Company

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