The 10 most beautiful hikes to make in Ariège

Want beautiful walks and rich and varied landscapes? And if you go on a hike in Ariège! Follow the guide!

Earth of contrasts located at the foot of Pyrenees , Ariège is located in the southwest of the occitan territory. Owing a strong cultural identity and offering a wide variety of landscapes, Ariège nestled at the edges of the Andorra and of Spain , in the heart of Midi-Pyrénées. What's better for visiting this spectacular department than hiking in Ariège?

As you walk through the Ariège, a sumptuous panorama of landscapes is offered to you like the Haut-Couserans Valley, the Haute Ariège Valley or the Pyrenean Pedmont. So, what are you waiting for to wear your crampons?

1. The Blue pond

Are you looking for a dream destination to take your eyes full? This hike in Ariège offers a magnificent view of the high Ariegean mountain and its high-perched ponds.

At the start of Tarascon, you then follow narrow passages along small streams. By catching the forest road, you will gradually enter a splendid fir tree that leads you to the beautiful and quiet Blue pond! In front of you there is a breathtaking landscape: the Cirque d’Embans! It is a former blotti glacier at the foot of the Three Lords peak.

If you want to continue this hike in Ariège to discover other magical landscapes, continue to the Couillate pass. There you will be dazzled by the panorama: you dominate the border summits.

2. Castle of Roquefixade and Cave of Coulzonne

This hike in Ariège is probably one of the most charming in the department. Indeed, it is a stroll through the ruins of the Château de Roquefixade leading to the Cave of Coulzonne. This escapade in the heart of the Ariegean landscape will allow you to discover a magnificent castle marked by catharism at the top of a cliff.

After taking some pictures (the panorama is quite beautiful!), continue your way to the Cave of Coulzonne. However, to enter it alone, you need at least a safety rope and a frontal lamp.

3. Soum de Bazillac from the Prat d’Albis

This pleasant hike in Ariège is just above Foix. Alternate marked trails, forest trails and hardy coasts, you will be subjugated by the panorama. On the one hand, stretch under your bahish eyes, the green plains and ariegenous shimmering plains and on the other hand the majestic chain of the Pyrenees.

Note : the end of the hike is done through the fields, between ferns and grass, so think to equip yourself according to.

4. The Cascades of Roquefort

Although very fast and short, this hike in Ariège is worth a visit! You explore the woods looking for the splendid Cascades of Roquefort. Between mountains, greenery and crystal clear waters, the scenery is total!

Note: the trail back is a rather slippery descent... attention to the fall!

5. The Path of Mine

From Vicdessos, this is one of the most immersive Ariège hikes. Indeed, without ever leaving the woods, you walk through the Sem Valley in the footsteps of the ancient miners of Rancié.

At the beginning, the path is quite steep, but believe us these few efforts will be greatly rewarded. The Palet de Sanson and its magnificent view will not leave you with marble. Take a break, take a few minutes before you continue your path.

6. Les Tunnels de Decauville en vallée d’Orle

Unusual is the adjective that best qualifies this hike in Ariège! Indeed, you follow a former mining railway with numerous crossings of railway tunnels. During your journey, you will also discover some treasures of support, galleries and even remains of carnets!

In addition to the heritage interest, this hike of a few hours also allows you to discover beautiful views of the border summits. To immortalize this getaway, don’t forget to take a souvenir photo!

7. La Dent d’Orlu

This is probably one of the most famous hikes in Ariège. Indeed, the Pic de Brasseil nicknamed the Dent d’Orlu is known as climbers for its very steep southern facade.

However, for us no climbing, simply walking, no panic! By borrowing the north façade, the denial is less and is a magnificent viewpoint on all the Ariegean mountains. Don’t hesitate to take a break to really enjoy it!

Note: on this itinerary, no water point exists so think about taking what to refresh you.

8. Pic d’Estibat from the Col de Port

In an enchanting setting, this hike in Ariège is very pleasant to do. Combining both marked trails and off-piste trails, this hike offers lovers of the walk a wide variety of paths and crossings.

From the Col de Port, you will walk to the Pic d’Estibat (1663m) with the aim of the magnificent panorama offered at the top. Once at the top, you can admire the majestic Pyrenean chain, but also the many surrounding forests and plains.

After a break on the picnic area at your disposal, the redescent starts and there, you will have to use your direction! Indeed, the rest of the circuit is done off-track and tags / tracks are often hidden by vegetation, which slows down your progress. Get rid of cards, compass and GPS!

9. Pillar of the Three Lords

This beautiful hike in Ariège makes you see the beauty of the region Occitania . Nature lovers can reconnect to this latter by admiring splendid landscapes in a soothing and relaxing atmosphere. However, don’t rely on its appearance as the first kilometers have quite technical passages which in the presence of snow can discourage more than one.

Once the difficulties are successfully swept, you just have to walk to the Pic des Trois Seigneurs that promises a magnificent 360° panorama. So, what are you waiting for to raise your crampons and go to the assault on this mountain?

10. Boucle des Étangs de Fontargente

Ultimate hike in Ariège of this top, but not least! This half-day circuit allows you to observe nature in all its splendor! The Fontargente ponds, their crystalline water and their emerald green reflections contrast with the surrounding green lush. This palette of colors will undoubtedly leave you subjugated by the beauty of the landscape.

During this hike, we recommend you take a break in the refuges or in the caves to memorize this enchanting landscape forever.

Among these trails, what is your favourite Ariège hike?