Valle Frances
Where to find it
Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
What is it?
Valle Frances (the French Valley) is a deep valley between mountains in Torres del Paine and is one of the main hiking attractions in the national park. It is dominated by a magnificent hanging glacier, Glaciar Frances, beech forests and the French River.
It takes roughly two hours to trek into the valley before you get your first glimpse of the glacier and you can hear the rumble of small avalanches in the distance and watch ice calving from its face.
How can I see it?
You will hike the French Valley on Torres del Paine's two most famous multi-day hikes, the Full Circuit and the W Trek. It's also possible to do it as a day hike as part of a series of day trips in Torres del Paine, returning to a comfortable base each night.
On the Full Circuit you typically approach the French Valley from the east, starting from the nearest refugio, Paine Grande. On the W Trek you'd most likely start from the west, trekking from nearby Refugio los Cuernos. The weather is famously temperamental here, and a thick mist can descend making it impossible to reach the end of the valley. However if you do make it up to the end of the valley, expect spectacular views of Cerro Cota (2000m) and Cerro Catedral (2200m), a mountain which is said to resemble a cathedral facade.
Find out more about...
Photos of Valle Frances
The French Valley hike
The imposing mountains of the French Valley, Torres del Paine
Celebrating at a viewpoint over the French Valley, Torres del Paine
Craggy mountaintops seen from the French Valley
A mountain peeks through autumn foliage in the French Valley, Torres del Paine
Map of Valle Frances
Nearby landmarks
Trips that visit Valle Frances
Tackle Patagonia's most iconic circuit trail, fully supported with porters and a local guide. Cross the John Gardner Pass, explore the park's remote northern sections, revel in the stunning French Valley and finish at the famous Towers viewpoint. This is…
- 9 Days
- $4,359
The fastest way to complete the Torres del Paine circuit at great value. Trek through the isolated northern side of the park, over the infamous John Gardner Pass with the ice field beneath you and back along the W Trek.…
- 7 Days
- $3,600
Are you ready to take on Patagonia’s most famous hiking route? With a small Swoop exclusive group tour, you’ll head into the incredible Torres del Paine National Park for the world-renowned W Trek. Think huge granite towers, hanging glaciers, glistening…
- 6 Days
- $2,995
Always wanted to travel to Patagonia but want the details taken care of? This exciting Swoop group tour connects the glacier country of Los Glaciares National Park with the dramatic granite peaks of Torres del Paine. Drawing on our expertise,…
- 10 Days
- $5,995
Tailor each day of this trip to suit you by choosing from a selection of small group excursions to Torres del Paine's most famous sights and lesser-known gems. Enjoy some solid days of hiking, or more gentle walks, and return…
- 5 Days
- $5,240
Discover Torres del Paine's extraordinary W Trek on a series of fantastic group day hikes with constant panoramic views. Enjoy a boat trip to the immense face of Glacier Grey and spend a day watching wildlife, hopefully spotting the elusive…
- 5 Days
- $2,800
This trip fits Torres del Paine's highlights into a short timeframe. As part of a group, you'll trek up close to the famous granite towers, the mesmerising French Valley and the shimmering blue ice of Glacier Grey. Expert guides, Lotus Belle…
- 3 Days
- $1,750
Hike the original W Trek and experience the highlights of this unique region. Trek to the best lookout points for stunning views of the Torres del Paine and explore the French Valley surrounded by hanging glaciers. Follow this with a…
- 5 Days
- $2,900
Discover Torres del Paine's famous treks with expert guides, combining camping and glamping. Trek to Los Cuernos, explore the French Valley and hike to the famous viewpoint at the base of the Towers, whilst also visiting the stunning Glacier Grey…
- 7 Days
- $2,241
Dreaming of a bucket list trekking trip to Patagonia? With over a decade of experience planning trips in the region, we’ve designed the perfect 10-day route for active adventure seekers. With your exclusive small Swoop group tour, you’ll hike Chile’s…
- 10 Days
- $5,995
Don't just trek the W-Trek, do it from comfort and in style. Stay at one of the best all-inclusive lodges in Patagonia, whilst each day completing a leg of the W Trek: Glacier Grey, the French Valley and the epic…
- 5 Days
- $3,520
