The 14 things to do in Ariège

At the foot of the Pyrenees, the occitan territory invites you to discover its fabulous traditions and beautiful landscapes. For an unforgettable stay, here are 14 things to do in Ariège!

Occitania is a strong region of its cultural identity. With a patois still taught, customs and traditional events , it is one of the most fascinating territories of the hexagon. Longer the Spanish border and visit Ariège, particularly marked by this culture. It also has an exceptional terroir, and many culinary specialties .

Between nature, Atypical history and culture, discover our selection of essentials to make in Ariège, a resurgent and inspiring department. Follow the guide!

1. The Château de Montségur

Built in the 13th century, the castle of Montségur is an unusual site to visit in Ariège. It stands on an impressive hill, instead of an old fortified village. With its almost unbeatable location, it has long been a refuge for cathars and faydits.

Today, visitors can still admire its incredible medieval fortifications. After climbing the hill to this fabulous building, you’ll feel like you’re making a real leap in time. His ramparts and his dungeon are going to invite you to cross the centuries!

2. La Grotte de Niaux

If there are many historical visits to Ariège, it is also possible to visit prehistoric sites. A few rubble Foix , the small town of Niaux houses one of the most important paleolithic caves of the hexagon.

This cave of nearly four kilometers is decorated with performances that would have more than 13,000 years. On its millennia walls, you can admire the drawings of bison, horses, ubiquitous, and even fish. For the visit, we advise you to leave your smartphone off and take full advantage of the show. Because this cave takes you to meet one of your oldest ancestors.

3. The House of Wolves

In addition to cultural discoveries, the youngest will find a lot to do in Ariège. For example, the Maison des Loups is an ideal park for young and old. A few steps away from Ax-les-Thermes, this reserve is dedicated to the protection and conservation of wolves.

Its visitors can admire the species of canids from all over the world. From the Toundra Alaska to the European massifs, through the Canada , you will be invited to meet this fascinating animal!

4. La Grotte du Mas d’Azil

Adventure mordus will definitely not lack things to do in Ariège. At the foot of the imposing massif of the Plantaurel, they can visit the splendid cave of the Mas d’Azil. This cave of more than two kilometers was long occupied in the prehistoric period.

During recent excavations, archaeologists were able to discover tools, paintings and sculptures of our ancestors. Through its fascinating tunnels, you will then be invited to cross ages and generations.

5. The Castle of Roquefixade

The Château de Roquefixade has stood for almost a millennium on the ridge of the eponymous village. Refuge des albigeois lors du siège de Simon de Montfort In the 13th century, it is an emblem of regional history. Indeed, it is one of the exceptional Cathar fortresses to visit in Ariège.

Nowadays, there is obviously only one part of its impressive medieval building. However, its fortifications have survived the times, and still attract thousands of visitors every year.

6. La Fontaine de Fontestorbes

Nature lovers can find many activities to do in Ariège. But one of the most fascinating is probably the Fontestorbes fountain. This real curiosity is located a few kilometers south of the village of Bélesta, close to Pamiers. It is in fact a millennium cave whose stream of water flows only intermittently.

This vauclusian fountain then pours into a cascade for thirty-six minutes before stopping for thirty-two minutes. His cycle is obviously perpetual, and in fact a place of the most unusual to visit in Ariège!

7. Lake Bethmale

If you're wondering what to do in Ariège for your summer vacation, why not discover one of the beautiful regional lakes ? The pond of Bethmale is located in the famous Courserans.

However, its very mild climate will certainly not allow you to swim. Rather than a refreshing moment, the tranquil waters of the lake invite you to the promenade. On its wild shores, you can take a large bowl of fresh air in the heart of the Pyrenean valleys.

8. The Château de Lagarde

Near Mirepoix, the Château de Lagarde is a must-see in Ariège. This fortress of the 11th century has long belonged to the monarchs of Aragon. Over the centuries, it has been the scene of many territorial and religious conflicts.

Today, unfortunately only a few remains of the original building. Nevertheless, his discovery may charm the ferus of History and Culture. In addition, you can admire the fabulous Ariegean landscapes from its promontory.

9. La Cathédrale Saint-Antonin de Pamiers

The city of Pamiers is part of the beautiful communes to visit in the Ariège . One of the most outstanding monuments in this city is its cathedral. Built in the 12th century, its Gothic style is most fascinating.

Through your steps, you can admire its impressive bell tower, adorned with murderers and creneaux. Inside, you will be intoxicated by the particular atmosphere of his nave and choir. You can also observe its magnificent frescoes of the Renaissance.

10. XPloria la Forêt à Explorer le Temps

If the region is full of activities to do in Ariège, XPloria is probably one of the most popular. This forest park of more than three hectares invites you to discover the rich local biodiversity.

Indeed, this nature reserve has multiple facilities and workshops to better understand nature. From the Prehistory to today, young and old will then be able to explore the millenniums. In particular, they will be able to observe fossil authentics, botanical spaces, and reconstructions of missing animals.

11. The Forges de Pyrène

A few kilometers from Foix, the Forges de Pyrenees are an unforgettable village to visit in Ariège. This site is, in fact, an ancient village that invites you to live a real moment of history. For example, you can discover fabulous crafts and medieval buildings. The blacksmiths will then show you the gestures and methods of a past era, but yet particularly revolutionary.

12. La Rivière souse de Labouiche

If Man has particularly left his mark in the Ariegean caves, water has also shaped their History. It is over three-mile meters that the Rivière Souterraine de Labouiche invites you to follow its work. On board small boats, you can explore its fascinating tunnels. Between geological curiosities and fabulous rooms, we bet that this activity will be one of your favorites to do in Ariège.

13. The Regional Natural Park of the Ariegean Pyrenees

Since its creation in 2009, the Parc Nature des Pyrénées Ariégeoises covers more than a hundred municipalities in the department. This regional reserve will surely seduce nature lovers. Hiking or hiking bike , they will then be able to explore its magnificent landscapes, and meet its exceptional fauna.

In particular, they can enjoy the view of the Blazy Pass or the Ayens peak. Obviously, they will be able to enjoy this peaceful moment to recharge and disconnect from the daily!

14. Mirepoix

Considered one of the most beautiful communes in the region, Mirepoix is a must-see in Ariège. It is an ancient village that has been able to preserve its magnificent historical architecture. Its paved streets, shaded houses and warm atmosphere will surely seduce you.

In addition, you can enjoy its exceptional setting to taste delicious local specialties. Sitting on the terrace of an authentic restaurant, you can better discover the Ariege culture.

See also in the Ariège

If you're wondering what to do in Ariège for your stay, you'll be inspired by this small selection. But obviously, the region is not limited to these few activities. Between the splendid towns of Ax-les-Thermes, Orlu and Saint-Girons, you will find many places to visit in Ariège.

Also, you can try new leisure activities such as speleology in Montcalm, or rafting in Foix. Small explorers can also have fun at some interesting sites. In particular, we think of the Parc de la Préhistoire or the Ferme aux Reptiles. From the Pyrenees to Pamiers, the department promises you an unforgettable holiday!

How to get to Ariège?

By plane

If you would like to visit the Ariège, you could choose the air route. The cities of the department unfortunately do not have airports, but you could land in Toulouse. The pink city is actually located close to the Ariegean territory. For this, we advise you to use a flight comparison, such as that of our partner Ulysses .

Then you will only be renting a car to reach Pamiers or Foix. Or take public transport.

By car

To get to Ariège, the ideal is to go by car. You will actually be more able to move within the department. Travellers from the north of France will then have to borrow A66 or A64 to join Pamiers.

For their part, the inhabitants of the east of the hexagon can go to the region by l’A61 or national roads. When you arrive, you will only have to choose one of the many activities to do in Ariège.

By train

Unfortunately, the territory of Azerbaijan is not served by airways, but it has many stations! To visit the Ariège, you might prefer the train. As you reach the sumptuous cities of Foix, Pamiers or Saint-Girons, you can admire its landscape.

In front of you, the department will introduce you to its splendid mountains and green plains.

Where to stay in Ariège?

Ariège is a very popular destination during the summer season. Also, the department is full of ideal accommodation for travellers. However, we recommend that you use one Compare hotels for your stay. This allows you to select the perfect rental at best prices for your holidays. In summer, a hotel room in the area costs between 40 and 120 € per night in Foix or Pamiers.

Of course, rates may vary depending on the location and the proposed benefits. Some gites or guest houses sometimes offer more expensive accommodation, but offer many additional services.

Of course, nature lovers can also find the ideal rental to visit Ariège. Indeed, you could opt for a country accommodation to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the region. In this case, we advise you to opt for rentals as Airbnb or Abracadaroom . You will thus have a wider choice for your stay.

For example, you could choose an apartment in Ax-les-Thermes, to be able to hike in the Pyrenees. In the same way, you might be tempted by an amazing wooden hut in Ignaux. Whatever type of accommodation you choose, we bet your holidays will be most unusual!