Ariege

In Occitania, the Ariège department is a preserved and little-known Pyrenean territory.

Backed by Spain and Andorra, the department of Ariège has preserve its authenticity and its traditions. The promise of this territory is quite simply, “Ariège, the Pyrenees with a capital A”. Because if this territory is not well known to the general public, it does indeed conceal natural and cultural wonders to be discovered with the family.

The essentials of the Ariège department

Many sites in Ariège deserve our attention. Montségur and its Cathar castle, but also the cave of Niaux and the House of the Wolves are exceptional places. In terms of nature, the Ariège Pyrenees Natural Park is simply beautiful. The beauty of Lake Bethmale leaves no one unmoved.

Remarkable natural sites

The Ariège Pyrenees Natural Park every year amazes its visitors. The Ars waterfall is one of its hidden gems. At an altitude of over 1 meters, Bethmale lake offers emerald waters bordered by deciduous forests. Accessible by car, it is an ideal place to relax and contemplate the surrounding nature. The underground river of Bouiche is an underground treasure. 60 meters underground, the Bouiche can be visited along a 1-meter route.

Outdoor sports

In Ariège, many hiking trails offer hours of discovery through massifs, lakes and forests. But this department is also ideal for mountain biking, canoeing, canyoning, skiing and paragliding. A spot less frequented than some star territories… Yet just as magnificent!

Historic sites

In Ariège, the cave of Niaux is revealed by the light of a headlamp. It is one of the few sites where it is still possible to admire authentic cave paintings. A visit to do absolutely with your children. During your visit, do not miss Foix and its castle, or even the castle of Montségur. It is a candidate for registration as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, alongside the 7 other citadels of vertigo Aude and Carcassonne.