If you’re after an adventure holiday in Europe, there are many countries to pick from. I simply have to think about Slovenia, Switzerland and France to start dreaming about Europe again!

France does have a lot of amazing options for those who like to play outside! In fact, there are many mountain spots that offer a lot of outdoors possibilities. If you’re looking into something a bit more off the beaten path, I’d recommend Occitania, which is located in the South of France.

Ready To Travel? Don't Go Without Travel Insurance.

I recommend SafetyWing Nomad Insurance, an affordable travel insurance offering automatic monthly payments that you can cancel anytime. I've been using it since 2019, and I can assure you it's the perfect solution for nomads like you and me. Learn more by reading our SafetyWing review.

I’ve already talked a lot about Occitania in terms of itinerary and places that are worth visiting in the South of France.

This time, let’s take a peek at the outdoors options for those who are seeking an epic adventure holiday in France!

Best National Parks to Visit in Occitania

National Park of the Cévennes

Gorges_du_tarn_France

Located in Lozère, there’s so much to discover in the National Park of the Cévennes. It’s a great destination for those who are into hiking as there are many walking trails around.

Highlights
  • Gorge of the Tarn
  • Mont Lozère
  • Mont Aigoual

The Pyrenees National Park

Gaube_Lake_France

If you’re into Mountains, the Pyrenees National Park should be on your itinerary. Located in the very South of France, this large mountain range is surely breathtaking.

Highlights
  • Vignemale
  • Cirque de Gavarnie
  • Pont d’Espagne (lakes & waterfalls)

Canyoning in France

There are a few cool spots where you can go on a canyoning adventure in France. Occitania has great canyoning options in both National Parks.

As I’ve been exploring the National Park of the Cévennes, I’d probably recommend to check out the options here. I fell in love with the area and I experienced an activity with this company which was fun and pleasant!

They offer two options:

  • The Haut-Tarn Canyon (next to Mont Lozère)
  • The Tapoul Gorges (next to Mont Aigoual)

Via-Ferrata in France

via ferrata france

The same company also offers via-ferrata adventures in the National Park of the Cévennes.

They have also two options:

  • Rousses
  • Florac (this one would be more challenging as it’s a lot higher)

Caving in France

If you’re into caving experiences, well, believe it or not, they also offer caving tours in the same region! Depending on your experience, you could start with an initiation to caving or go for a true exploration (or even a vertical exploration).

Stand-Up Paddleboarding in France & Other Experiences on the Water

If heights and underground experiences aren’t your cups of tea, you might want to explore Occitania on the water!  I tried stand-up paddleboarding a few years ago in Myanmar, and I truly enjoyed the experience! When I heard it was possible to do it in France (and also at night time), I was amazed!

If you’d like to explore the Gorges of the Tarn, the best way to see it would be on the water! Check out the options here for epic active holidays on the water!

Of course, there are also great options to consider in the Pyrenees National Park!

Protect Yourself | Get Travel Insurance

If you’re planning your adventures in France, make sure to be smart about it and get a travel insurance plan! (Especially if you’re about to do some crazy things out there!)

Better be safe than sorry!

Disclaimer: This trip was organized by Tourisme Occitanie and Lozere Tourisme

About Melissa Giroux

Melissa Giroux founded abrokenbackpack.com in 2015 and has been living abroad since 2014. Originally from Canada, she has embraced a digital nomad lifestyle, working online from various destinations worldwide. Melissa is passionate about travel, technology, entrepreneurship, and CrossFit. Her extensive travels have taken her across Asia, Oceania, Europe, and North America. Currently, she resides in Thailand.


☑ Book your flight: Who said you won’t be able to find cheap flights? My top saving tip is flexibility. If you're flexible, you should be able to find a cheaper flight. Check out Skyscanner or Google Flights for the hottest deals.

☑ Book your accommodation: Want the comfort of being at home or the luxury of a hotel? I love using Vrbo and Booking.com for those very reasons. If you're a solo traveler, Hostelworld offers a wide variety of hostels you should take a look at. Alternatively, if you're a budget traveler, sign up for Worldpackers to get FREE accommodation in exchange for work.

☑ Rent a car or an RV: Make your trip more comfortable by renting a car with DiscoverCars.com. This website allows you to compare car rentals around the world. If you're traveling in the United States, find an RV rental on RVshare.

☑ Stay safe: Travel mishaps happen – so, better be safe than sorry by covering your back with travel medical insurance. I would suggest SafetyWing, Genki or Heymondo as they offer the best rates, especially for long-term travelers.

☑ Pack the essentials: Universal charger, check; power bank, check; passport, check! What else could you forget? I've put together this ultimate packing list just for you!

☑ Do you need a visa? If you aren't sure if you need a visa, it’s highly recommended for you to double-check. You can use iVisa - it's super useful and easy to use.

Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.