Discover Massat, Ariège, Midi-Pyrénées: Nature and Culture

A short, family-friendly walk through the village of Massat. The various locations on the route highlight a variety of themes, not least our historical heritage.

his beautiful walk follows the paths once used by shepherds (pastres). This route enabled shepherds to link the valley floor to the summer pastures on Massat's N-E slope. This route enabled shepherds to link the valley floor to the summer pastures on Massat's N-E slope.

Perforated by caves, this site has been frequented throughout history. Walk to the summit of Ker de Massat, a remarkable viewpoint perched high above the Massat valley. 0.00 In front of the equestrian center, head for Biert on the departmental road that runs along the left bank of the Arac. From St-Girons, take the D3 or D618 towards Massat as far as Biert; go straight on towards Massat for 1.5 kms and turn right towards the “Boutou” riding school. 0.20 At the Biert bridge, follow the signs for Col de Sarraillé, then fork immediately onto the road which climbs to the left; 5mns later, take the path which goes off to the left into the forest. Start in front of the equestrian center. 0.35 After crossing the road lined with houses on the ridgeline, take the path which continues straight on to the south. After a last barn on the right, turn 90° to the left and reach a track. From here, the trail turns 90° left again, heading north and skirting a property. 1.00 Follow the forest path past the ruins and small chapel of Saint-Branda, and after a final steep climb to the summit of Ker de Massat. Take the same path back down, and after skirting the property, the path forks to the left. 1.15 Take a track that leads to a property, from where there are two possible variants: for riders, continue straight ahead; for walkers, turn right before the house (beware of fences and livestock). GR described for this route GR de pays described for this route Maintained trail described for this circuit Unused track or trail for this circuit Continuity of direction Turn left Wrong directionright1.35 Cross a stream and turn left as far as the Lirbat wash-house and the D618; from here, turn left and follow the road for 200 m.1.50 end- Arrive in front of the riding school.

his long hike on the northern slopes of Biert culminates on the Ouert ridge, The view is magnificent, alternating between a wide variety of environments. The view is magnificent, alternating between a wide variety of environments.

his walk offers a beautiful view of Massat from the atypical Liers church, built by the hamlet's inhabitants in 1823. This hike allows you to discover a still very active agro-pastoral life.

The Cap du Carmil is a beautiful route through ridges and forests, with incomparable views of the Pyrenees and the Mont Valier massif, the Pic des Trois Seigneurs and Bassiès.

A must-do loop in the Massat valley. This trail leads to the recently restored village of Goutets, home to the “Orris” (shepherds' huts), an exceptional protected heritage site. The trail rises without too much difficulty into the mountain environment of the cirque of the Trois Seigneurs massif, the highest point in the Massat canton. It allows you to discover the ancient pastoral dynamics of the village of Goutets.

Stroll through the typical hamlet of Cominac, with its exceptional views of the border chain. You'll see the bird's-step barns, listed by Bâtiments de France.

A shady path that runs alongside the Garbet and then the Ars stream as far as the Pas d'Enfer gorge, past the remains of the old Prabis forge. This route is ideal for a walk on a sunny afternoon.

This day's hike will take you to the pretty Etang de Guzet via the sumptuous Ars waterfall, one of the most beautiful natural sites in the Haut Couserans.

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!

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!

ENJOY A SEGWAY TOUR IN THE HEART OF THE PYRENEES JUST 2 HOURS FROM BARCELONA! ENJOY A SEGWAY TOUR IN THE HEART OF THE PYRENEES JUST 2 HOURS FROM BARCELONA! At La Molina adventure park in the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees just 2 hours from Barcelona, meet your guide for the segway tour. Take a few minutes and learn how to use the segways before setting out on your tour. Now that you're at ease on the segway, discover the environment around you. Off the beaten track, enjoy this fun segway tour in the mountains! In winter or summer, discover the mountains in a unique and fun manner.

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!

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.

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.

This church belonged to the Abbey of Mas d'Azil through a donation from a certain Amélius, around 1085. The porch and the bell tower are from this period. The reconstruction of the rest of the building and the murals are from the 15th century. The Romanesque bell tower is a wall bell tower. The southern part of the front porch is occupied by a small oratory with a ribbed vault. The largest part of the painted decoration covers the entire choir and the north wall, the latter being a remnant of the first Romanesque construction.

The massif of Tabe is the high mountain of Pays d'Olmes. Thus, from certain altitudes you may be lucky enough to see a herd of Isards, a flock of mouflons, the capercaillie or ptarmigan. During the day you can admire the flight of some raptors.

With onion soup as its “signature starter” for 4 generations, veal sweetbreads, duck confit and other cassoulets cooked to perfection, this place will delight bon vivants nostalgic for Sunday meals at their granny's!

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.

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.

Large bistro in the heart of the village with a spacious bar, restaurant, wine cellar, covered terrace and large garden.

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.

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!

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.

Former independent school on enclosed land, converted into a spacious gîte, facing the Pyrenees Regional Nature Park! Holiday home for 6 people, in Montbrun-Bocage, 20km from the Grotte du Mas-d'Azil and Rieux-Volvestre, one of France's most beautiful detours. Find yourself at the gateway to the Ariege Pyrenees in this detached former school set in large enclosed grounds 4km from the village. An ideal place for a family get-together. Montbrun Bocage is renowned for its traditional Sunday market, cultural events, hiking trails and fishing lakes. Nearby tourist attractions: Natura Cheval Ariège 9km away, Cazères water sports centre (water skiing, tug-of-war) and Saint-Girons 22km away, Foix 44km and Toulouse 80km. Ground floor: separate kitchen, dining/living room. Upstairs: 4 bedrooms (1 double bed 140cm) (1 double bed 140cm) (1 double bed 140cm) (1 single bed 110cm + cot), bathroom, separate WC. Carport, small games room with library, utility room with outside access including WC and shower room, washing machine. Electric heating. For rentals of 28 days or more, cleaning will be charged at €90, sheets at €20/bed and towels at €10/person. Professional deposit = 300€.

Perched on a hillside, this detached gîte is ideal for recharging your batteries in the heart of the Volvestre region. Detached gîte for 6 people, in Montbrun-Bocage, between Toulouse (73km) and Saint-Girons (22km, Ariège department). Unenclosed private garden. Pets not allowed. Room with access to a covered terrace (extraordinary view of the Pyrenees). Internet via WIFI. Perched on a hillside on the edge of the Ariège Pyrenees Park, this old renovated house welcomes you to a small hamlet. From here, you can take a stroll along the surrounding paths, through woods and meadows. An ideal place to recharge your batteries in the heart of the Volvestre region. Don't miss the Montbrun Bocage market, an experience not to be missed! You'll also be close to a host of activities and sights: Rieux-Volvestre, one of France's most beautiful detours, is 20km away, as is Cazères (shops, restaurants, water sports centre, wakeboarding, Garonne river), the Sequoia Vertigo adventure park, the Mas d'Azil cave and Saint-Girons. Salies-du-Salat (casino, thermal baths and golf course) and Matres-Tolosane (earthenware artisans) are 25km away. Ground floor: large kitchen (fridge-freezer, 4 induction hobs, oven, microwave, kettle, coffee maker and toaster) opening onto covered terrace, dining room (fireplace), lounge (2 sofas and TV). Upstairs: yellow bedroom (1 double bed 140cm), pink bedroom (1 double bed 140cm) and white bedroom (1 double bed 140cm + private terrace), bathroom (bath and washbasin), WC. Electric heating. For other lengths of stay: please contact us (05 61 99 44 10).

Do you want calm, nature and conviviality? Join us at Nomade’s Land, a small family campsite in the middle of the woods, on a ridge facing the Pyrenees. An ideal setting to recharge your batteries, meet people, discover an original way of life. On site, you can camp with your own equipment or rent one of our furnished tents. You can put your hands in the soil of the garden, visit the animals (donkeys, chickens, goats), or participate in one of our nature activities (climbing in the trees, nature games, treasure hunt ...). The common kitchen is a meeting place and conviviality, the fireside also. You will also have outdoor games (pingpong, badminton, pétanque, skittles, etc.). We also offer all kinds of wilderness adventure (stays, bivouacs, perched nights ...). An ideal place to reconnect and have a good time.

Reservations via booking platform

In the heart of the ecolieu LA COLLINE AUX CHEVREUILS, La cabane du chevreuille welcomes you to the heights of the Volvestre on a 4-hectare permacultural site for a comfortable, relaxing and instructive stay in the heart of nature, guaranteed... Sylvain will welcome you and explain the design and operation of the COLLINE AUX CHEVREUILS, where everything is designed according to the principles and ethics of permaculture. You'll discover a place to live and produce food that's as self-sufficient as possible, while preserving and storing natural resources. You'll have a different vision of how to design our habitat, a different vision of how to produce the healthiest food possible while preserving the life of the soil and, as a result, how to have more purchasing power and fewer expenses while respecting nature. As the seasons go by, the deer hill changes its face, at the end of winter the lambs are born, in spring the first vegetables and the orchard blossom, and as for the mandala garden, it regains its colour in summer in a landscape that is always grandiose. The little wooden hut is cosy and comfortable, and you'll enjoy a stay in total harmony with nature. Sylvain is a Paysculteur, so please book by SMS at least 24 hours in advance.

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.