Explore A Hidden Gem in the French Pyrenees.
Created | Updated Oct 31, 2008
Little known outside France and to an extent the Low Countries, the Ariege Department lies directly south of Toulouse, on the route to Andorra, rising dramatically to the high Pyrenees mountain range on the border with Spain. From towering peaks to sandy lakeside beaches, dramatic wildlife including bears, wolves (well at least in a park) plus easily observed magnificent birds such as the huge Griffon vultures and rainbow coloured Bee-eaters, the Ariege could be justifiably called 'Europe's New Zealand'. Add to this heady mix the mystery, drama and tragedy of the history of the region, in particular Catherism, with their towering castles and blood curdling stories, then the appeal of the Ariege is boundless. The 'Ariegeoise' people themselves are welcoming, open, proud and seem very in tune with their surroundings. With easy access in all directions, east to the Mediterranean Sea in less than 2 hours, the wild and beautiful Atlantic Coast 2 hours to the west, the Ariege has a great deal to offer for all ages, activities and interests, with the common link of enjoying the great outdoors, dramatic history, stunning scenery and mouth-watering cuisine, all under a warming sun. The Ariege is readily accessible with low cost airlines operating into both Carcassonne (Ryanair) and Toulouse (Easyjet). Flybe and BMI Baby also operate to the area. BA offer competitive flights to Toulouse. Hire car companies at the airports (Hertz/Ryanair and Europcar in particular) offer excellent deals when pre-booked over the internet. There are hundreds of miles of marked walking trials, from village walks to the transiting high level HRP long distance path. There are walking and bike riding routes for all ages and abilities. For those who love the splendour and mystery of lofty castles, the Cathar ruins that run in a chain from Foix eastwards offer majestic and beautiful settings with intriguing stories to match the location. Foix itself is a pretty market town with a genuine, 'real' atmosphere. There are many wonderful, fascinating markets throughout the area. Ax Les Thermes, a further 30 minutes down the Ariege valley is an attractive Alpine town offering a very pleasant base for exploring the surrounding mountains, summer and winter. Ax Les Thermes ski resort above the town offers 70+ kms of alpine piste. Cross country skiing and snow-shoe walking is also extensively available in the area. The Ariege has a large number of caves to explore; the huge Lombrives cave, with tours up to 5 hours long and the world famous Niaux prehistoric cave paintings are amongst some of the highlights. The pre-histoire ry park at Tarascon offers a fascinating insight into life during the Ice Age when the first humans settled in and around the caves of the Ariege. An underground river near Foix offers a unique boat journey underground that is both informative and an adventure. Water sports of all varieties are also on offer, from white water rafting to wind surfing. Swimming lakes also offer pleasant places to relax and play. There is something for everyone in the Ariege, but particularly for those who love the 'Big Outdoors'! From the heat of summer, lazing by a mountain pool admiring your surroundings, to scaling the highest peaks in spring or autumn or hurtling down a piste on a quiet day in January, discover the Ariege at any time of the year!
http://www.ariege-discovery.com
