Unveil the hidden gems of Montardit, Ariège, Midi-Pyrénées

This walk will take you through the pretty little hamlets of Montardit and you'll discover the unusual little chapel of Notre Dame de la Goutte. This curious little chapel, worthy of a surrealist sculptor, was built in 1968 by Abbé Jean-Marie Piquemal and has become a place of pilgrimage during the liturgical feast of Notre-Dame des Sept Douleurs on 15 September. The place exudes a kind of peacefulness and quiet strength.

Departing from the small village of Contrazy, this pleasant hike will take you between forest and open views, to contemplate the hills of the foothills topped by the Pyrenean massif. This walk will take you to the highest point in the Volvestre Ariègeois at an altitude of 698 m (signposted). This walk begins on a very pretty path leading up to the ‘old canton of St Girons’. As you follow this boundary, you'll be treated to a beautiful panoramic view of the hilly commune of Montesquieu-Avantès and its farms scattered throughout the landscape. At the end of the forest (marked by a milestone), you will know that you are at the meeting point of three cantons, Le Mas d'Azil to the east, St Girons to the south and Ste Croix to the west, and four communes, Camarade, Montesquieu-Aventès, Contrazy and Mauvezin de Ste Croix. On the way back to Contrazy, just before the village, you'll discover a magnificent view of Lasserre and the Pyrenees, overlooking the church at Montardit. You can also enjoy a view of the fir forest, which in autumn offers a patchwork of colours from the dark green of the firs to the shimmering colours of the broad-leaved trees.

Departing from the small village of Contrazy, this pleasant hike will take you between forest and open views, to contemplate the hills of the foothills topped by the Pyrenean massif. A walk that takes you to the highest point in the Volvestre Ariègeois at an altitude of 698 m (signposted).

Lovely loop around the village of Tourtouse

The road to freedom is a historic route. The Couserans, which borders Spain, has been a strategic crossing point since time immemorial, particularly during the darkest hours of our history. History of the road to freedom : After the German offensive of May 1940 and the division of France into two parts occupied zone in the North and a free zone in the South, many civilians and soldiers, fleeing a world of persecution, imprisonment and executions that was inseparable from Nazi barbarism, took refuge as soon as they could in this free zone, synonymous with hope. Their common denominator was the vital need to leave France and reach Spain by crossing the Pyrenees, either simply out of an instinct for survival, or to resist inexorably the unbearable oppression. Nearly 3,000 people - 2,506 men and 158 women - crossed the Spanish border through the Couserans during the Second World War. Among the various routes, one of the most emblematic and representative is the Chemin de la Liberté, already mentioned above, linking Saint-Girons to Sort across the Pyrenees, via Mont-Valier.

Starting in Saint-Girons, this trail offers great views over the Salat valley and the high peaks. After just a few climbs, you'll already be in the mountains!

During this country walk, you'll have the chance to contemplate beautiful panoramic views of the Pyrenean mountain range and the valleys. Discover the old marble quarry and pass by the rock-climbing crags.

A fun walk with interpretation panels to discover the geological curiosities of the Sourroque Massif, including the Degaudez chasm. Great for the whole family!

Walk starting from the village. A varied path alternating between tracks and woodland approaches, with a number of viewpoints. The hamlet of Monteillas is surrounded by a whole series of stream losses; small openings through which water rushes and becomes underground after a journey on the surface. The best-known example of this in the Ariège is the cave at Mas d'Azil. But the rivers of the periglacial age were much larger!

This pretty loop takes you through the woods and meadows of the Couserans region, where you can admire beautiful views of the border chain and some fine barns. A beautiful loop around the village of Moulis in the Castillonnais valley. - After the parking lot, turn right and then straight on up Rue de la Hount. You will pass by the Pouech castle and wash-house. - Continue uphill, following the yellow signposts, which branch off to the left as you climb up to the Granges de Paracoch at 672 m. From here, you can take in the view of the high peaks of the Couserans. - At the junction of the 2 barns, take the path down to the left. Halfway down the slope, at the crossroads, follow the yellow signs to Pouech, crossing the old farming terraces. Follow the path downhill, catching a track on the left and the road that takes you back to Pouech, passing a maginette (small oratory dedicated to the Virgin Mary).

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...

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!

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.

Ideal rental for a couple, this studio is located on the ground floor with small enclosed garden and fitted terrace. Le PETIT NID is a small living space of 18m2 (gîte studio) warm by its colors anis chocolate linen. It is equipped with a 140cm bed, a dining table, a desk and various storage spaces. In the back, the kitchen area is cleverly equipped with a fridge-freezer, a microwave, a coffee maker, a kettle and a toaster. A bathroom with shower The plus for the summer: a flowered and private terrace equipped with garden furniture, shade sails and wooden panels. Non-smoking accommodation. WIFI. Bike room Sheets provided - please bring your own towels Nearby leisure activities : swimming pool at the leisure center, all shops, sports hall, mini-golf, fishing, fitness trail, cycling tour. From October to May = heating is extra. Wellness treatments provided by the hostess (world massages, auriculotherapy, Chinese reflexology)

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.

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.

The first traces of the castle date back to the 14th century. At that time, a tower and perhaps a "castrum" controlled a crossing point at the confluence of the Arize and a stream, the Pas du Rat, forming the border between the counties of Toulouse and Foix. At that time, Palays was a small fortress of plain in the quadrilateral form made up of brick walls crowned with battlements on false machicolations served by a covered way and flanked by four round towers. Ditches protected the bottom of the walls, defended by numerous guns; a drawbridge allowed access to the vast interior courtyard. Wooden galleries, now disappeared, skirted the wall, except on the South East side where was the modest stately home framed to the South by a vaulted Chapel and to the East by the master tower.

Sandrine Suères, ceramist, welcomes you to her studio for a visit or a workshop. You can discover the world of her work in a dedicated space.

Contemporary African art in the Volvestre. Place of residence approved by the French Institute, each year the SCAC Marestaing receives in residence, during the whole summer season, two African sculptors. On the heights of Montesquieu Volvestre, in front of the Pyrenees, from June to September.

13th century fortified church classified as a Historic Monument. Inside you will discover the famous painting of Girodet, a beautiful stone tomb of the 15th century. The treasure room houses relics of St Jacques, a collection of reliquary busts, a painting of the school of Fontainebleau etc... 13th century fortified church classified as a Historic Monument. Free visit of the exterior and interior architecture: description of the painting by the painter Girodet and "Mise au Tombeau", an exceptional 15th century sculpture. On reservation, guided tour: Treasure room with reliquary busts and relics of Saint Jacques, collection of chasubles and crypt. Guided tour on request at the association "Les amis de l'église".

One of the last mills on the River Arize, which numbered up to 17.

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

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.

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!

Are you familiar with wake-boarding, water-skiing or towed buoys? Or perhaps you'd prefer to go boating, pedal-boating or canoeing? Whether you're on your own or with the family, come and try your hand at water sports, or simply enjoy some time out together... Base Nautique de Cazères is a veritable oasis of aquatic adventure. Thrill-seekers will find plenty to do as they explore activities such as wakeboarding, water-skiing and towed buoys, offering adrenalin-pumping thrills in the midst of stunning scenery. For those in search of tranquillity, a range of calmer options await, with boat trips, pedal-boat escapades or canoe explorations allowing visitors to appreciate the serenity of the surrounding environment. Whether alone or with the family, the Base Nautique de Cazères opens its doors to a world of nautical wonder, whether to discover new activities or to savour moments of peace and sharing within a captivating aquatic environment. Port and boat launching and mechanics. Pontoon and terrace with refreshment bar. Picnic tables and barbecue available.

Located next to the Salies du Salat thermal baths since 2007, in a warm and friendly setting with a maximum capacity of 26 people. Anne, the chef, and Gaston, the waiter, are delighted to share with you their cuisine based on fresh local produce and flavours from around the world.

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).

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€.

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.

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!

Gîte located on a farm (pension for retired horses). Renovated former Volvestre farmhouse, away from the village, for a relaxing stay in the countryside. Horses welcome in summer. On the ground floor, you will enter the living room, with its kitchenette and lounge area. Upstairs you will find 2 bedrooms with sloping ceilings, a shower room and separate toilet. There is a private outdoor area with garden furniture, a covered parking space for your car and all our farm tracks for your walks. We'd be delighted to help you discover the farm and give your children an animal experience full of tenderness and interaction. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Reservations via booking platform Alain welcomes you to his family home, for up to 7 people Montesquieu-Volvestre is a pretty bastide overlooking the Pyrenees. A typical Volvestre house dating from the 19th century, completely renovated, awaits you. Bed linen included Towels not included Cleaning fee compulsory.

Detached renovated family farmhouse with large wooded grounds Detached holiday home. Less than 15km away: the Gaulish village of Saint-Julien-sur-Garonne, the remarkable market town of Montbrun-Bocage, Cazères (water sports centre, Maison de la Haute-Garonne), the Via Garona hiking trail (pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela), the Ariege Pyrenees Regional Nature Park! Martres-Tolosane, Cité d'Art et de la Faïence is 26km away. Don't hesitate to come and recharge your batteries close to nature at the farm gîte "Aqui Naut", in Montesquieu-Volvestre (13th-century bastide). This 250-year-old family farmhouse has been renovated: the interior has been refurbished to offer modern comforts, while the facades have retained their authenticity. The outbuildings, a vast 200m² shed, have been transformed into a large relaxation area. Behind the house, a small garden with aromatic plants is available for holidaymakers. The completely independent gîte is surrounded by 3500m² of shady parkland. Ground-floor gîte: living room with sitting area, dining area and fitted kitchen, 2 bedrooms (1 double bed 140cm) (2 single beds 90cm), shower room, WC. Non-smoking gîte. No reception after 10pm. All shops (baker, supermarket) within 400m walking or cycling distance.

Service/parking area for campervans close to the town centre, a bastide whose church is a listed monument.