Discover the treasures of Le mas-d'azil, Ariège, Midi-Pyrénées

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!

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).

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.

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.

Lovely loop around the village of Tourtouse

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.

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 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.

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.

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!

Benefiting from an exceptional location, as if suspended above the valley, the restaurant l'Échauguette plays the authenticity card! This local restaurant offers market cuisine, based on fresh, home-made products. On order, come and celebrate all your events: christening, birthday, seminar, wedding... a made-to-measure menu awaits you. The most important thing is the satisfaction of the customers, let us note their comments on the specialized sites: "Very beautiful situation! Quality food with seasonal products", "This type of restaurant reconciles you with the profession. A very nice place, a magnificent view of the Agout valley, the Pyrenees in the distance and Toulouse on the horizon. The menu is simple, as we like it, that is to say, it is renewed often, so it is synonymous with freshness and local cuisine...", or again "Copious and succulent dishes, nice and good quantity of vegetables and the chef is very, very nice! Ideal for families and friends". Permanent exhibition of local artists, musical (every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month) and cultural events, to open up your taste buds, eyes and ears... Jazz evenings on the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month from 7.30pm (dinner + concert: 22€) "Gourmet Bag" partner: your restaurant offers to take away what is not finished in your plate by providing you with a food box. Adopting the "Gourmet Bag" avoids waste and enhances the value of the food prepared by your restaurant owner!

A small paradise for lovers of nature and peace. Central location for discovering the region, ponies on site, large heated swimming pool and paddling pool, water slide, "homemade" dinner every evening. Freedom and conviviality guaranteed. 50 separate camping and caravanning sites equipped with water and electricity connections. Rental of wooden chalets and canvas bungalows. Natural, quiet and shady, lovely surroundings. Big heated swimming pool (18 x 8m)+ paddlingpool, playground, indoor room, bar, mountain bikes, horse riding in Servies. Children's Entertainment from 06/07 to 26/08 Adults Entertainment from 06/07 to 26/08 Swimming Pool from 01/07 to 31/08 Heated Swimming Pool from 01/07 to 31/08 Bar Or Refreshment Bar from 01/07 to 31/08 Restaurant or Takeaway Meals from 01/07 to 31/08

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.

A must-see for your visit to Pamiers! Built in the 12th century at the foot of the now-destroyed castle, the church of St-Jean Baptiste and St-Jean l'Evangéliste, which became Notre Dame du Mercadal in the 15th century, was the town's first church, and all that remains of the 12th-century building is the Romanesque portal adorned with capitals depicting biblical scenes. In the 14th century, the Mercadal church was enlarged. The superb bell tower, inspired by the Jacobin bell tower in Toulouse, was built at this time. The Hundred Years' War, the Navarre War of Succession and local conflicts led to the looting and destruction of the cathedral. Reconstruction work began around 1662, but was halted due to a lack of funds. It resumed in 1685. The church was consecrated on 9 January 1689. The single nave building is simple and majestic. The interior woodwork, paintings and silverware give it a prestigious character. In 1777, the church was fitted with a large organ from the Daurade church in Toulouse, housed in a remarkable 18th-century case that has been listed as a Monument Historique. Major work was carried out on the bell tower and roof between 1833 and 1875. Saint-Antonin Cathedral was listed as a Historic Monument on 9 August 1906.

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.

The Cascades produced a rare and very fragile phenomenon: a tufiére 30 meters high. True natural geological curiosity, the tufiére or petrifying waterfall is formed of pulverulent and friable limestone tuff of white to beige color. The water of the sources of the Turasse being particularly calcareous, the tufa is deposited on the mosses and the pieces of wood in the form of a crust. The disposition of these vegetable debris by fermentation gives in part to the rock its porous texture reminding that of the sponge.

The Orris is a dry stone construction without binder with vault in piles of medium mountain load.

The existence of the castle of Roquefixade is attested since 1034. The first lords all bear the name of Bernard Amiel de Pailhès. During the crusade against the Albigenses, they are of all the fighting alongside the counts of Toulouse and Foix of which they are the vassals. In 1278, the castle was purchased by the king who will maintain and remodel the fortifications and maintain a garrison including a castellan, a watchman, a porter, twelve sergeants and watchdogs.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Auberge Les Myrtilles' guests are generally mountain lovers who also enjoy delicious and healthy food. This combination of delicious and healthy food is always the inspiration behind the dishes created in our kitchen. We always start from as much fresh produce as possible. Our cuisine can be best described as honest, balanced and also sometimes surprising.

Authenticity and conviviality in a chic and relaxed atmosphere. La Table du Pavillon is a charming local restaurant offering modernised regional cuisine. In winter by the fireplace and in summer on the flowered terrace in the shade of century-old trees: our different areas invite you to stroll according to your desires and the weather. By reservation only.

Products from here and nearby! Bistro and grocery shop catering, stop by to eat a bite : simple and seasonal cuisine based on local products. Daily specials on site or to take away, local products, cheeses and delicatessen, fruits, vegetables, bread depot, local newspapers, group meals.

In the heart of the village of Durfort, Le Cyrano, a village café, welcomes you to its terrace on the banks of the river. Bread depot - Postcards - Candy bars - Animated evenings.

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!

Get away from it all and put down your bags at the Auberge des myrtilles for a while. You'll have an exceptional view of the Couserans mountains. A real haven of peace, with a friendly atmosphere and a warm welcome. Auberge les Myrtilles is a true mountain hotel in the Pyrenees, located in the heart of the Couserans in the Ariege Pyrenees. The atmosphere in our hotel is warm and relaxed. Your stay takes place in the heart of nature and the mountains, at the very end of the Haut Salat valley, in the small village of Salau, in the Ariège. We have 8 comfortable double rooms, all with en suite facilities, and we invite you to relax on the Auberge's sunny terrace. We, Patrick and Robert, welcome you in a quiet, green setting and in a family atmosphere.

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.

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.

On the banks of the river, this Logis Essentiel*** hotel welcomes you to the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional on the Route des Cols. In the heart of the village, you'll be welcomed in our Logis*** hotel, with comfortable rooms meeting today's standards, equipped with bathroom, television, kettle.... On the route des cols for cycling enthusiasts, everything has been thought of to welcome you when you visit. Whether you're a mountain biker or a road cyclist, .... is a pure delight! For hiking enthusiasts, there are numerous trails starting right from the village, not forgetting the many walks in nearby villages. Local craftsmen and craftswomen in our canton have a wealth of wonderful things to offer. For your enjoyment, the inn offers a restaurant with local flavours.

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.

The Étang d'Araing refuge is a refuge in the French Pyrenees, situated at an altitude of 1965 m in the extreme south-west of the Ariège department, at the foot of the Crabère peak, on the GR10.

A small paradise for lovers of nature and peace. Central location for discovering the region, ponies on site, large heated swimming pool and paddling pool, water slide, "homemade" dinner every evening. Freedom and conviviality guaranteed. 50 separate camping and caravanning sites equipped with water and electricity connections. Rental of wooden chalets and canvas bungalows. Natural, quiet and shady, lovely surroundings. Big heated swimming pool (18 x 8m)+ paddlingpool, playground, indoor room, bar, mountain bikes, horse riding in Servies. Children's Entertainment from 06/07 to 26/08 Adults Entertainment from 06/07 to 26/08 Swimming Pool from 01/07 to 31/08 Heated Swimming Pool from 01/07 to 31/08 Bar Or Refreshment Bar from 01/07 to 31/08 Restaurant or Takeaway Meals from 01/07 to 31/08