The most beautiful mountain hikes in France and Switzerland

Mountain hiking is becoming increasingly popular with nature lovers, sports enthusiasts and families looking to unwind. With spectacular panoramas, lush flora and wild fauna, France and Switzerland offer an exceptional playground for hiking enthusiasts. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, here's a selection of the most beautiful itineraries to discover, as well as the essential equipment to take with you: binoculars.

France: breathtakingly grandiose itineraries

Tour du Mont-Blanc (Alps)

Considered one of Europe's most legendary treks, the Tour du Mont-Blanc crosses three countries: France, Italy and Switzerland. On the French side, the trails offer breathtaking views of the glaciers, peaks and valleys of the Alps. For almost 170 km, the route alternates between steep passes and flower-filled mountain pastures.

Clarée Valley (Hautes-Alpes)

Less frequented but just as sumptuous, the Vallée de la Clarée, a listed natural site, is packed with high-altitude lakes, waterfalls and easy-access trails. It's the perfect place to spot marmots, chamois and golden eagles.

Cirque de Gavarnie (Pyrenees)

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this majestic glacial cirque boasts vertiginous walls and a famous waterfall. An unmissable family hike that will delight fans of spectacular scenery.

Switzerland: precision, beauty and unspoilt nature

Sentier des Crêtes du Jura

This trail stretches some 310 km along the Franco-Swiss border. Hikers discover alternating forests, pastures and panoramic views of the Alps and Lake Geneva. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Mont Blanc.

Tour of the Matterhorn

This alpine trek circles one of the world's most iconic peaks. Less frequented than Mont Blanc, it offers a wilder and equally spectacular experience. The alpine flora is particularly rich, with edelweiss, gentian and other rare flowers.

Swiss National Park (Grisons)

The country's only national park, it is home to an exceptionally rich fauna. Ibexes, deer, foxes and griffon vultures can all be seen in their natural habitat. The well-maintained trails are suitable for all levels.

Why are binoculars essential for hiking?

Binoculars are much more than a simple accessory: they enable complete immersion in nature and significantly enhance the hiking experience. In the mountains, wildlife is often discreet. With quality binoculars, you can observe without disturbing: chamois on ridges, curious marmots, vultures in flight or even, with a little luck, a lynx or golden eagle.

In addition to wildlife, binoculars allow you to appreciate the details of the landscape: rocky ridges, glaciers, distant waterfalls, or even peaks on the horizon. They're also useful for marking out a route, reading distant markers or anticipating forks in the road.

How to choose the right binoculars for hiking?

• Weight and compactness: opt for lightweight, foldable models.
• Waterproofing: make sure your binoculars are waterproof and fogproof.
• Magnification: a ratio of 8x42 or 10x42 is ideal for mountain observation.
• Optical quality: choose anti-reflective lenses for a clear, bright image.

Conclusion: an invitation to explore differently

Hiking in the mountains of France or Switzerland is a sensory voyage through awe-inspiring landscapes, while reconnecting with yourself. With the right preparation, an itinerary adapted to your level and the right equipment - including quality binoculars - every outing becomes a rich and memorable experience.

Whether you're a fan of snow-capped peaks, wildlife or contemplative silence, the mountains await you. So put on your boots, grab your binoculars and set off to discover the best that nature has to offer.