Discover Bethmale, Ariège, Midi-Pyrénées and its Charm

Lovely loop hike through beautiful countryside. The views are varied and magnificent. Take a long look at the north face of Mont Valier, pastures as far as the eye can see and beautiful lakes.

A family walk along the heights of Lac de Bethmale, taking in the Etang d'Ayès via the Cirque de Campuls, where the animals gather during the transhumance before leaving for the summer pastures. Please note the road closed from 1/11 to 1/06

You'll enjoy magnificent scenery all the way to the final cirque at the Campuls hut. This route is ideal for mountain lovers, and can also be done in winter on snowshoes, or when the track is closed to road traffic from 1/11 to 1/06

From the Col de la Core, famous for the Tour de France, the Cap de Bouirex offers a breathtaking view of the Bethmale valley and the Pyrenees.

This loop takes in some ‘hidden’ villages and hamlets with an exceptional heritage, including the Ourjout chapel in Bordes with its 12th-century frescoes. In Idrein, you can take the opportunity to see the wash-house and the Romanesque chapel. In Idrein, you can take the opportunity to see the wash-house and the Romanesque chapel.

A walk along the Biros soulane to discover the old marble quarry, where marble was cut using the straight step method and helical wire sawing. The route offers panoramic views from the Col de la Core to the Col de Nédé.

You set off from the pretty little village of Cescau to reach the chapel of St-Michel de Loutrein (listed site), with its panoramic views of the high Castillonnais mountains and villages. Park in the car park at the bottom of the village of Cescau (play area and wash-house).

The Nerech waterfall is one of the most abundant waterfalls in the Couserans. A biodiversity hotspot, it boasts the widest variety of orchids in the area. Through beech woods and granite rocks, once occupied by the beaches and lagoons of the Permotrias, you'll discover this luminous water from the glaciers.

This loop through the Valier massif will take you from the summer pastures to the high mountains. You'll walk past waterfalls, skirt high-altitude lakes and spot isards, marmots and large birds of prey in unique mountain cirques.

The former marble quarry dominates the valley and offers a magnificent view of the high peaks of the Castillonnais. You'll also discover the orri, an ancient dry-stone shelter for shepherds. The trail can also be explored on snowshoes.

Guzet : my dolce vita resort ! From the steep slopes of the Freychet to the gentle Prat Mataou's slopes, skiing is everywhere and is available to suit all tastes. But above all, the most important thing to remember here is the intimate atmosphere, a "cocooning" spirit that invites well-being and escape. Guzet is perhaps one of the best-kept secrets of the Ariege Pyrenees. This resort literally enchants its visitors who (re)discover here the mountain in its most marvellous aspect. Whether you like to meet in the evening by the fire in a wooden chalet on the mountainside, or whether you dream of escaping in a welcoming natural environment, Guzet imposes its unique style, all gently...

RIDE THE WAVES OF THE NOGUERA PALLARESA AND ENJOY RIVERBOARDING! RIDE THE WAVES OF THE NOGUERA PALLARESA AND ENJOY RIVERBOARDING! In the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees, head out into the water with your float and surf the waves of the Noguera Pallaresa. Visitors will enjoy the 8km section of the river with it's whitewater. Participants are supervised by guides and followed with cars the entire route.

IN THE HEART OF THE SPANISH PYRENEES, EXPLORE THE COLLEGATS GORGE BY CANYONING! Accompanied by your expert guide, head out to discvoer the waterfalls, rocks, and natural pools in Collegats. Visitors will be able to admire and master the canyon as they make their way down. On the program: hikiing, rappelling, natural slides, a bit of swimming and a few jumps! Mix all these fun activities together and have an adventure that is fit for all skill levels! 

EXPLORE NATURE AS YOU RAFT THE NOGUERA PALLARESA IN THE HEART OF THE SPANISH PYRENEES! EXPLORE NATURE AS YOU RAFT THE NOGUERA PALLARESA IN THE HEART OF THE SPANISH PYRENEES! Depart from Sort and board the inflatable rafts that will take you down the Noguera Pallaresa River. Accompanied by your expert guide, learn all about rafting and navigating the waters. You will cover about 18 km of the river. Discover the landscape around the river as you also enjoy rafting.

HEAD OUT IN YOUR RAFT AND NAVIGATE THE NOGUERA PALLARESA RIVER IN THE HEART OF THE SPANISH PYRENEES! HEAD OUT IN YOUR RAFT AND NAVIGATE THE NOGUERA PALLARESA RIVER IN THE HEART OF THE SPANISH PYRENEES! Accompanied by your guide, set out in your raft for an adventure. In the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees, you will navigate along the Noguera Pallaresa River, which flows through mountains and forests. As a family or with friends, enjoy this fun rafting trip that is adapted for all levels.

FOR AN EXPERIENCE FULL OF ADRENALINE, LOOK NO FURTHER THAN BUNGEE JUMPING! In the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees, meet at a stone bridge that crosses the Noguera Pallaresa, and enjoy the view of the river and landscape around you. After a briefing, visitors will get to jump from more than 16 meters high. Attached to a bungee cord, you will get the feeling off free fall. After the jump, there is relief! Adrenaline junkies won't want to miss this!

Set up in the natural canyon carved out of the Pyrenees by the River Ardour, this via ferrata course is a fun and sporty way for families or groups of friends to make the most out of the stunning landscapes. SET UP IN THE NATURAL CANYON CARVED OUT OF THE PYRENEES BY THE RIVER ARDOUR, THIS VIA FERRATA COURSE IS A FUN AND SPORTY WAY FOR FAMILIES OR GROUPS OF FRIENDS TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF THE STUNNING LANDSCAPES. Zip lines, rope swings, monkey bridges, and all kinds of challenges await you within this exceptional site. Make your way along the rock face, following the cable that's fixed into the stone with the aid of well-placed hand and footholds: thrills guaranteed! The itinerary is adapted for all levels, from 3 to 83 years! An activity leader will be present to take care of the little kids while the bigger ones take on the via ferrata course accompanied by expert mountain guides. The itinerary is fully secure and all equipment adheres to strict safety regulations. You will be provided with everything you need: harness, helmet, ropes and carabiners. At the end of your activity, tea and coffee will be served in a traditional shepherd's hut. All participants, young and old, will be presented with an Ardour climbing certificate, as well as photos and a personalized film of the day's highlights.

Come and Discover the Mysteries of the Universe at the Cité de l'Espace! For a day trip, explore the park and enjoy the amazing scientific attractions! DISCOVER THE MYSTERIES OF THE UNIVERSE AT THE CITÉ DE L'ESPACE! SPEND A DAY EXPLORING THE PARK AND ENJOY THE AMAZING SCIENTIFIC ATTRACTIONS ON OFFER! Near to central Toulouse, the European park of space adventure opens its doors to you! Discover 2,500m2 of interactive, cutting-edge exhibitions and see some real life-sized spacecraft such as the Ariane 5 rocket! You can also step aboard the MIR Space Station, an exact replica of the famous Russian space station that was used for ground tests, or have the privilege of feeling what it's like to walk on the Moon in the Moon Runner simulator. A giant screen that broadcasts films shot in space, a next generation planetarium, a rotating seat to test your resistance to disorientation, an astronomical simulator... there's everything you need to experience a trip into the cosmos! Restaurants are also available in the park. Come and share a timeless experience at the Cité de l'Espace! 

Discover the Pink City at your Leisure and Enjoy Many Benefits Thanks to the Toulouse Pass! Discover the Pink City at your Leisure and Enjoy Many Benefits Thanks to the Toulouse Pass! Valid for durations of 24h, 48h or 72h, your Pass will allow you to fully appreciate your escapade in Toulouse. Enter many tourist attractions for free and use the urban transport network. You'll also have preferential rates for some sites. This pass guarantees: * About twenty totally free services; museums, monuments, cruises etc * Over 30 reductions in many tourist sites * You will have unlimited access to the Tisséo network (métro, bus, tramway) * Roundtrip ticket for the airport shuttlebus The benefit of discovering Toulouse completely at your own leisure!

BOTH YOUNG AND OLD WILL LOVE EXPLORING THE TREES DURING THIS ADVENTURE IN THE SPANISH PYRENEES! BOTH YOUNG AND OLD WILL LOVE EXPLORING THE TREES DURING THIS ADVENTURE IN THE SPANISH PYRENEES! Ziplining, bridges, vines, walkways and much more await you at the La Molina adventure park. Feel just like Tarzan as you safely scamper through the trees. With family or friends, you're suure to have a great time trying out the routes which offer something for all levels. Guarenteed adrenaline rush for those who dare to try the 260 meter zipline!

In the heart of the village of Seix, come and discover this jewel of flowers, combining scents, colours and flavours. Labelled an Ecological Plant Area and an Eco Museum, our passionate volunteers will give you the warmest of welcomes Welcome to the eco-museum ‘Life in the mountains in days gone by’. 1) old houses 2) a collection of old tools 3) an area dedicated to linen and antique lace. The parish priest's garden and the Ecomuseums are open from July to September, some afternoons.

A botanical garden to discover on a guided tour or by playing the treasure hunt, where you can explore this place of beauty, serenity and botanical knowledge at any age. Le Clos des Arômes is a synergetic garden that takes you on an enigmatic journey through a range of influences: composting using Jean Pain's methods, Gilles Clément's landscaping techniques, beds based on medicinal virtues, a vegetable garden and orchard, a Zen area and shiitake cultivation, biodynamics...

Drinking water tap on the Fougaron meadow, a few metres from the town hall.

Open-access waterhole: Caillau stream (at the bottom of the bridge over the stream, animals can easily approach the stream and drink). Water point for animals only between the village of Fougaron and the hamlet of Carboues.

Pond for animals "Chemin de Plan" (at the top of the village) Drinking water point in front of the Mairie at the camper van site.

Drinking water supply point at the corner of Pré Commun and Fougaron

Bivouac area on private property: at Ulan Bat Farm 15€/animal donkey or horse (hay, grain, paddock - dry toilets - by the river) and table d'hôtes option

Private bivouac area at Chein Dessus at the Cavalcagire riding centre 15€/animal donkey or horse (hay, barley, box or paddock)

Nestling in a small valley in the Pyrenean foothills between Foix and Saint-Girons, Combelongue Abbey and its gardens, which have been awarded the Jardin Remarquable label, offer the charm and prestige of a place steeped in history. Founded in 1138 by the Count of Pallars, Combelongue Abbey is the only Romanesque abbey in the Couserans region. It is one of the jewels in the crown of the region's heritage. Its Mudejar-influenced architecture is exceptional on this slope of the Pyrenees, and the sculpted decoration is pure and symbolic. Contemporary stained-glass windows adorn the abbey church.

La Faim du monde is a multi-faceted place: restaurant, café-bar, library, performance space, a place for artistic and cultural experimentation. The dishes are traditional, homemade and inspired by the world, in a warm, natural atmosphere. Here, people meet, eat, learn and bond in a natural setting in the heart of the Ariège region. Theater artists, musicians, storytellers, gatherers, neighbors, letter carriers and Mamie Josette come together to share a meal, a drink, regional specialties from here and abroad, play an escape-game or teach sign language to the little ones. The restaurant is committed to an eco-responsible approach, choosing local produce (everything that grows in Ariège and neighbouring departments), respecting seasonality and homemade. Culinary specialities: Fresh fish, but also meat dishes. Vegetarians welcome.

Take a stroll through the narrow streets of Saint-Lizier and discover the Grange de la Cité farmhouse restaurant/bar. You can relax on the farmhouse terrace with views of the Pyrenees. Come and sample our farm produce for breakfast, a menu of the day or a gourmet break with a sorbet or dessert. Everything is homemade and cooked over a wood fire! Tapas and pizzas on opening nights. Wide choice of draught beers and wine on tap. The dishes are made with fruit, vegetables, eggs and meat from the farm, complemented by cold meats and cheeses from small local producers. The shop sells products processed from the farm's organic produce. You'll find a wide range of syrups, spreads, jams, pickles... Find them for : Morning breakfast A menu of the day at lunchtime Evening pizzas and tapas And brunch or mezze on Sunday lunchtimes.

At ‘La Bonne Franquette’, indulge in ‘simple, friendly’ cuisine based on local produce from the Ariège region. Situated on the D117, in the centre of the village of Rimont, Deborah & Mickaël's restaurant offers traditional cuisine based on fresh local produce all year round, to eat in or take away, as well as a continuous daytime service with a ‘Sur le Pouce...’ menu (breakfast, aperitif platters, savoury tarts, sweet tarts, snacks, etc.). (breakfast, aperitif platters, savoury tarts, sweet tarts, snacks, etc? ). At the same time, you'll also find a shop selling regional products (aperitifs, wines, beers, traditional charcuterie, cheeses, tinned meats, honey, biscuits, sweets, etc.) sourced exclusively from local producers, breeders and craftsmen.

The « Chalet de Beauregard » a high-altitude inn, offers mountain cuisine infused with the flavours of Ariège. Set off on a gustatory journey lost in the heart of the mountains. The only sound you'll hear is that of nature surrounding you throughout your meal. Mountain cuisine with a Couserannaise flavour, prepared using local produce and a short supply chain.

Brasserie, traditional cuisine. At the foot of the slopes, enjoy a friendly snack bar from 8.30am. Breakfast, homemade dishes at lunchtime and sweet or savoury snacks throughout the day. Sunny terrace and a warm welcome. Located at the foot of the slopes and the upper car park, our snack bar welcomes you from 8.30am for a gourmet breakfast before hitting the slopes. Throughout the day, enjoy quick, homemade food with a wide choice of sweet and savoury dishes to suit your mood. At lunchtime, take a seat on the terrace to enjoy carefully prepared dishes, ideal for recharging your batteries after a morning of sport. Open in winter from December to March and in summer from July to August, our establishment is the perfect stopover for a gourmet break in the great air. Come and enjoy a friendly moment in a relaxed atmosphere!

Le local a pizza offers home-made pizzas that make the most of local produce and regional know-how. The pizzas are made with local flour and ingredients from local producers. The aim is to offer an authentic, tasty and responsible pizza.

The refuge is located in the Mont Valier nature reserve, an iconic Couserans peak in the heart of the Ariege Pyrenees Regional Nature Park. In the midst of this unspoilt, wild mountain landscape, after a 4-hour walk along the cross-border GR from the Pla de La Lau car park, we welcome you to the ‘Les Estagnous’ mountain refuge. As soon as you arrive, you can introduce yourself to the warden(s) and discuss the ‘welcome arrangements’ (obviously you have booked your overnight stay and/or meals in advance). Once you've had a rest and taken in the exceptional views, you'll go through the hikers‘ entrance to settle in according to the wardens’ advice and, last but not least, you won't miss dinner! There's just one service for everyone, at 7pm! There are many hiking itineraries and multi-day tours. Summits, lakes and valleys offer a wealth of choices, not forgetting the summit of Mont Valier, just 1? hours from the refuge.

A stopover on the GR10, the Tour du Biros or the Passaran loop, the Eylie gîte d'étape welcomes all overnight hikers. In the heart of the Pyrenees, at the end of the Couserans, in the Biros valley, at an altitude of 1000m, on the GR10, the Eylie stopover gîte welcomes all overnight hikers. Sleeping capacity is 14 in 2 dormitories. Meals available on a 1/2-board basis. Please bring a sleeping bag or comforter for the dormitory. Pets are not allowed.

Right next door to their old-fashioned house is the nursery where Claudine and Charles will welcome you to their camping-garden, a haven of greenery and calm, ideal for a relaxing vacation and to recharge your batteries. The camping-garden has 12 pitches of 80 to 100 m2, grassy, flat, shady and bordered by flowering hedges (over 300 species or varieties of ornamental plants or fruit trees). We specialize in old varieties of southwestern fruit trees and apple juice production. Claudine and Charles also offer 2 traditional tepee accommodations.

Stay in Ariège, Between History & Nature: Accommodation & Must-See Attractions In the heart of the Ariège Pyrenees, the town of Saint-Lizier is a perfect destination for a getaway combining nature, heritage, and relaxation. With its stunning mountain landscapes, historical landmarks, and rich traditions, Ariège offers an authentic and rejuvenating experience for nature and history enthusiasts. Accommodation in Ariège – Domaine du Palais Residence The Domaine du Palais – Terres de France welcomes you to a prestigious setting within a beautifully restored historic monument. Located in Saint-Lizier, one of France’s "Most Beautiful Villages," this residence offers modern, fully equipped apartments, ideal for family vacations, group stays, or business seminars at the foot of the Pyrenees. Places of Interest & Activities Saint-Lizier & Its Historic Center: Explore its exceptional heritage, including the UNESCO-listed cathedral and Romanesque cloister. The Niaux Caves: A fascinating journey into prehistory with ancient cave paintings. The Pyrenees Ariégeoises Regional Natural Park: Hiking, wildlife observation, and breathtaking mountain views. Foix Castle: A stunning medieval fortress with an interactive museum. Aulus-les-Bains Thermal Spa: A relaxing wellness retreat after a day of adventure. Book your stay at Domaine du Palais and immerse yourself in the rich history and wild beauty of Ariège!

Since 1899, the Auberge de Fougaron has been located in a quiet village at the bottom of a valley. It retains the conviviality and authenticity of Pyrenean villages. The Gîte de l'Auberge is a group gîte just opposite the Auberge, with a garden and views of the woods and mountains for 10 people. 1 children's bedroom (bunk bed, 2 single beds on ground floor) with shower and toilet. 4 bedrooms with showers and toilets in the communal areas, (with double beds) The gîte also includes a lounge, dining room and fully-equipped kitchen. A games room with table tennis is available, as are parking spaces, wifi, a television and a large enclosed garden. Bed linen included Special facilities for cyclists: On-site repair and washing workshop, advice from a qualified mountain bike instructor, equipped with a trailer for 10 bikes. Member of the J'aime le Vélo network - Valcamins Comminges Pyrénées SPECIAL SERVICE: welcome of horses/donkeys while touring Horse/donkey supplement: €15/animal (grass, hay, water and grain in a fenced field 100 metres away). In the Auberge's restaurant (just a few metres away), you can sample traditional local specialities such as stuffed breast, calf's sweetbread, chicken in sauce, etc.

In the Central Pyrenees, renovated former barn in the heart of a rural mid-mountain landscape Semi-detached holiday home for 4 people, in Fougaron, 15km south-east of Aspet, in the Central Pyrenees. Adjoining enclosed garden. Private terrace. Pets not allowed. No internet access. The Gîte du Sabotier awaits you in the heart of a rural mid-mountain landscape. Situated 1.5km from the village, it is an old renovated barn adjoining the owners' holiday home. This holiday home is close to many activities and visits: 10km from the Ours fountain hike, 15km from Aspet (market, access to the largest underground network in France, the Félix Trombe network), 18km from Salies-du-Salat (thermal baths and golf), 33km from Saint-Girons in the Ariège department (Lake Bethmale in that department is 57km away), 35km from the Aurignacian Forum Museum, 37km from the Mourtis ski resort and 38km from one of France's favourite villages, Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges. Ground floor: living room with kitchen area opening onto terrace, separate WC. Upstairs: 2 bedrooms (1 double bed 140cm + cot) (1 single bed 120cm + 1 single bed 90cm), shower room with WC. Electric heating. Partially enclosed terraced garden, private terrace, landscaped parking area.

In the village of Herran, this stone barn was completely restored in 2016, respecting the warmth of local materials (stone, wood). Full of charm, this place will be the ideal starting point for your hikes or your mountain activities (paragliding, caving,...). Gîte sleeps 6. The owner, a luthier who makes Pyrenean oboes and bagpipes, will tell you all about his work as a craftsman and also give you tips on exploring the region. Ground floor: living room accessible by going down two steps, kitchen opening onto the living room, bedroom accessible via the courtyard (1 double bed 140cm). First floor: loft-style layout with one bedroom (1 x 140 double bed and 2 x 90 single bunk beds) and a partitioned shower room, WC on the landing. Private, enclosed courtyard with seating area and garden furniture. Heating with wood-burning stove and electric radiator in the bedroom. Price includes: water, utilities, electricity up to 8 kWh/day, household linen (tea towels, potholders). Price does not include: electricity according to consumption over 8kWh/day, wood: €50 per storage box (equivalent to 80% of a stere), optional sheet hire: €10/bed (140cm) and €8/bed (90cm).

On the border between the departments of Haute-Garonne and Ariège, in the centre of the Pyrenees mountain range, you'll be ideally placed for a stopover in the mountains. This 132m² T6 house has 4 bedrooms: the first with a double bed (140cm) and a single bed (90cm), the second with a double bed (140cm) and a single bed (90cm), the third with a double bed (140cm) and the last with a double bed (140cm) and a cot with TV. The games room has a 130cm sofa bed for extra sleeping space. Fitted kitchen, living/dining room, bathroom and 2 separate WCs.

Ideal place to recharge your batteries, peace and quiet. This 6-person mid-mountain gîte welcomes you to its vast garden and magnificent panorama. The gîte is fully equipped (dishwasher, washing machine, hairdryer, coffee machine, etc.). It has 2 bedrooms and a magnificent living room. Hiking trails start in front of the house. A sauna is available during your stay. Wellness breaks available, contact the owner for more information.

A haven of peace in the heart of the Arbas valley and the central Pyrenees for up to 5 people. Four-room house nestling in the countryside. Ground floor: entrance hall, large kitchen and living room opening onto terrace and garden. On the first floor, a landing leads to a large bedroom with a double bed and a single bed overlooking the garden and courtyard (a child's bed with mattress is available at no extra charge), a second bedroom with a double bed overlooking the mountain and garden. A shower room with wc. At the end of the garden, you can admire llamas, alpacas, Mohair goats and Ouessant sheep. A visit to the wool farm is free of charge, as is the making of mint syrup.