Hiking without borders in France – #UnitedBySummits

Common conception is that borders are barriers. However, instead of stopping at them and imagining what's on the other side, we suggest you play with them, climb over them, cross them and go to one side and then the other. If borders divide, this Collection does everything to bring them together. To join countries, regions, valleys and cultures together. All this thanks to the power of hiking – and your legs! This is all In line with our slogan: #UnitedBySummits.

This Collection includes six routes based on borders that are sometimes natural and sometimes historical. For example, you can walk uninterrupted along both banks of the Seine, where it divides France in two; you can explore the borders between the Queyras and the Monviso, uniting these wild, mountainous landscapes; or you can play leapfrog over the Auvergne volcanoes, a natural barrier in the heart of the Massif Central. Some of these hikes can be done in four or five days, others in six or seven. The best part is that you can decide how to approach these beautiful projects. All you have to do is plan your stages according to your fitness and timescales. Each of these Tours promises its own set of breathtaking views and peaks, ranging from modest hills to staggering alpine passes. Whether you like rocky high mountain environments, green tides, bucolic plains or alpine meadows, you’ll find your own frontier, your own limit, your own personal summit in this Collection.

These Tours are all easily accessible by public transport. On the linnear routes, a bus or train takes you back to where you started. As far as logistics are concerned, you find some recommendations for accommodation in the Tour descriptions. Most of the time, the idea is to guide you through the first few stages or to indicate the places you shouldn’t miss. In many cases, we’ve left the accommodation choices up to you. Also, there are plenty of places to stock up on food and water on these Tours.

Getting your footwear right for these relatively challenging hikes is key. As the terrain types are quite varied in this Collection, the ideal is a versatile pair of shoes. That's why we created the new adidas TERREX Freehiker 2. It gives you confidence and comfort on all types of terrain. Its Continental rubber outsole will give you grip on wet ground. The BOOST technology in our midsoles provides energy feedback to relieve your muscles and joints. The high upper is also a plus to give your ankles confidence. In addition, the shoe is made of at least 50% natural and recycled materials, as we consider it our duty to preserve resources and avoid plastic waste.

Are you ready for incredible journeys on foot across borders?