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
This fast-paced, group itinerary connects the glacier country of Los Glaciares National Park with the dramatic peaks of Torres del Paine National Park. Designed for those who want to cover serious ground on foot with a group of like-minded adventure…
- 10 Days
- $5,995
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
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
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
Complete the famous W Trek on an expertly crafted, Swoop-exclusive, fast-track itinerary limited to just 12 people per departure. With guaranteed Refugio bed spaces for all night stops, and a fully-inclusive and guided experience, you'll swap logistical stress for more…
- 4 Days
- $2,515
This is Patagonia’s classic route, done right. Starting in Puerto Natales, with your group you’ll head into Torres del Paine National Park to hike the incredible W Trek - think granite towers, glacier-fed lakes and big, wild scenery at every…
- 6 Days
- $2,995
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
Complete the famous W Trek on an expertly crafted, Swoop-exclusive, fast-track itinerary limited to just 12 people per departure. With guaranteed camping for all night stops, and a fully-inclusive and guided experience, you'll swap logistical stress for more time hiking…
- 4 Days
- $2,090
Expert guides make it possible to follow the majority of the W Trek and experience its highlights in the beautiful winter months of Patagonia, despite chillier conditions and limited services. Based in Torres del Paine's famous refugios, you'll have the…
- 5 Days
- $2,700
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
- $6,380
