Discover the picturesque wonders of the Ariegean Regional Park with our ranking of the 16 most beautiful villages in Ariège!
In the heart of the Occitania , the department of Ariège is a land that preserves its traditions and its biodiversity. Growing and green landscapes extend to the horizon. But the Ariège identifies itself mainly in its small villages on the banks of the rivers or at the top of the hills. Dive into the picturesque atmosphere of these towns marked by History with our guide of the 16 most beautiful villages in Ariège!
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1. Camon
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Stephen M Brooks
Don't keep the best for the end! Commune of Pyrenean Pedmont, Camon has the reputation of being considered the most beautiful French villages .
And for cause, we immediately fall under the charm of this fortified village. From the gate of the Horloge to the high house, passing through the abbey-château of the 16th century, many historical sites are only waiting to be discovered.
But Camon is also nicknamed "the village with the hundred rosiers". We advise you to visit the town in May to witness the flowering of a hundred roses!
2. Mirepoix
Photo credit: Facebook – Mirepoix
Traversed by the course of the Hers-Vif, this commune bordering the Aude is one of the most beautiful villages in Ariège for its medieval heritage.
The bastide of Mirepoix crosses historical beauty and picturesque charm. With its fortified 14th century door and its covered square, stroll along the shaded houses on wooden galleries. Take a break on one of the coffee terraces and visit its shops and traditional market.
3. Suspension
Photo credit: Facebook – La Pommeraie AB, in Tourtouse 09
Within the Regional Natural Park of the Ariegean Pyrenees, the hamlet of Tourtouse shines with its discretion.
Despite its small area, Tourtouse is worth a visit to its 12th century dungeon. This fortification occupies the centre of the village and is always ready for summer celebrations.
Taking the height, you can see the high defensive walls and the typical houses of Ariège.
4. Saint-Martin-d’Oydes
Photo credit: Facebook – Saint Martin d’oydes-MAIRIE
Through the scenic road, the peculiarity of Saint-Martin-d’Oydes is quickly seen. Indeed, this hamlet is the only circular village in Ariège!
Also called “circulade”, there are only seven circular villages in France. During your visit, take a walk through the adjoining houses and the church of Saint-Anastase that composes the heart of the commune. For painting fans, know that Saint-Martin-d’Oydes was also the home of Tony Blair.
5. Arrien-en-Bethmale
Photo credit: Facebook – Daniel Delord
Located on the hillside in the Bethmale valley, this town is one of the most beautiful villages in Ariège and an ideal area for hikers!
The town gathers pretty mountain houses with slate roofs. These houses contrast harmoniously with the green surroundings of the valley.
As mentioned, a multitude of hiking tours cross the village and the region. A natural parenthesis is essential!
6. Saint-Lizier
Photo Credit: Flickr – Jorge Franganillo
At the foot of the Couserans Mountains, Saint-Lizier is an ariegean village full of history and heritage. Divided into two separate parts, the commune gathers two monuments classified to UNESCO World Heritage .
During your visit, explore the lower part, with its old village and the magnificent cathedral of Saint-Lizier. Continue your road to the top. You will discover the magnificent palace of bishops, surrounded by great fortifications.
7. Aulus-les-Bains
Photo Credit: Flickr – PierreG_09
Between holiday resort and spa , the small town of Aulus-les-Bains in the Garbet valley is a green haven.
Enjoying a preserved natural setting, this destination is ideal for relaxing and outdoor leisure. To enrich your experience, go to the Aulus Baths. This centre specializes in medical treatments and fitness and well-being stays.
8. Mijanès
Photo credit: Wikipedia – Gilles Guillamot
In the heart of Donezan’s territory, the station of Mijanès is specially designed for fans of winter sports .
With a wide range of snow activities, let yourself be tempted by skiing trails, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing routes, sledging "snake gliss" or even christening in sled dogs. Mijanès will pimente your circuit of the most beautiful villages in Ariège with pleasure!
9. Sentein
Credit Photot: Flickr – thierry llansades
At the border of Spain, Sentein is an authentic mountain village at an altitude of 715 m. Located at the foot of the Maubermé peak, this picturesque town emanates a particular charm with its grey and ochre houses, blotted against each other. But the jewel of the village is probably its famous church of the 13th century, classified as "Historical Monument".
10. Montaillou
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Azalais
Vestige of the Cathar past of Occitania, this small town located at 1,300 m above sea level is a must-see for historians in the soul.
Indeed, Montaillou’s story is largely linked to catharism. Rendu famous in 1975 by Emmanuel Le Roy Ladurie and his book Montaillou, Village Occitan , it houses the ruins of a medieval castle cathar . Another not to be missed celebration is the festival of the city, a true crossroads of the Pyrenean languages, which celebrates the occitan heritage.
11. Carla-Bayle
Photo Credit: Flickr – nz_willowherb
Near Toulouse and Carcassonne Carla-Bayle is an ancient huguenote citadel on a rocky piton.
With its magnificent view of the Pyrenees, this peaceful commune could be considered as the Barbizon d’Occitanie. Indeed, this village has as many art galleries as its inhabitants. This is the perfect opportunity to meet and share your passion for art with other amateurs!
12. Seix
Photo Credit: Flickr – Renaud Camus
To rejuvenate in full nature, go to Seix! Small village of Occitanie, Seix is located in the heart of the department of Ariège.
The labeled “Green Station”, this commune bordering the Spain offers a plethora of monuments and natural sites to be discovered. We recommend the Seix Castle and the interpretation centre of the Couseranse Valley Heritage.
13. Montgaillard
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Serge Goujon
Finally, let's finish our tour of the most beautiful Ariegean villages by the charming commune of Montgaillard. This village in the Catalan past is located on the border of Andorra.
We recognize the meticing of cultures in the architecture of houses, with their white walls and roofs in terracotta tile. Another site not to be missed is the Pyrene ironworks. Ranked “Historical Monument”, a museum and its collection of 5,000 tools retrace the artisanal history of the place.
14. Lapège
Credit Photot: Flickr – Philippe GUINTOLI
Considered one of the most beautiful villages in Ariège, Lapège is a charming town rebuilt after a terrible fire.
There you can admire typical houses with coated walls, slate roofs, encorbellished bread ovens and sunbathed wooden terraces.
15. Saleix
Photo Credit: Flickr – @ngèle
In the commune of Auzat, Saleix is one of the most beautiful villages in Ariège and the Garbet valley.
From its houses to flowery balconies, Saleix offers a beautiful view of the valley. Here, time seems to have stopped. Indeed, the inhabitants sought to recreate the atmosphere of the time. We advise you to stop on the central square to admire the many bear sculptures.
16. Ax-les-Thermes
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Leonid Andronov
At the same time a spa, a summer village, a tour centre and a winter sports resort, Ax-les-Thermes has something to please everyone.
Stop in its spa centre to relax in one of the hottest water sources in the Pyrenees. In terms of sightseeing, the Château de Villemur, the Church of Saint Vincent or the Casino JOA will come to make your stay in the commune.
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