Discover the Wild Beauty of Ariège & Aude

Welcome to one of France’s most breathtaking and unspoiled regions. Nestled between the majestic Pyrenees and rolling vineyards, Ariège and Aude offer a unique mix of stunning natural beauty, rare wildlife, outdoor adventures, and rich medieval history.

Whether you're here to relax, explore, or get active — there's something for everyone.

Highlights & Attractions

🏰 Historical Sites & Castles

Château de Chalabre: A medieval castle with interactive exhibits, archery, and treasure hunts — perfect for families and history lovers.
Château de Puivert: A well-preserved Cathar castle with stunning views.
Château des Termes: A dramatic Cathar fortress perched on a rocky outcrop.
Château de Montségur: Iconic Cathar stronghold, just 20 minutes away.
Carcassonne: Famous medieval citadel, 40 minutes from Chalabre.
Peyrepertuse, Quéribus & Puilaurens: Impressive castles perched on cliffs, great for day trips.
Mirepoix: Beautiful bastide town with a 13th-century cathedral and lively market.

Nature & Outdoor Adventures

Étang du Laurenti: Serene mountain lake near Le Pla, ideal for hiking and relaxation.
Gorges de Galamus: Stunning gorge with hiking trails and wild swimming spots.
La Voie Verte: Scenic greenway perfect for walking, cycling, or hiking.
Lac Montbel: Lake nearby for sailing and canoeing.
Mont d’Olmes: Ski resort 40 minutes away for winter sports.
Crapahut: Tree-top adventure park with zip lines and climbing courses.
Swimming & Tennis: Enjoy the local pool and tennis courts in Chalabre.

Charming Villages & Unique Experiences

Camon: One of France’s “Most Beautiful Villages,” known for its medieval charm.
Labyrinthe Vert: Interactive maze and adventure park near Chalabre.
Sculptures in St-Colombe-sur-l’Hers: Modern outdoor sculptures to explore.

Local Markets & Festivals

Mirepoix Market: Held every Monday, featuring fresh local produce and crafts.
Chalabre en Sérénade: Summer music festival celebrating local talent.
Limoux Wine Events:
- Toques et Clochers in April — Michelin-starred banquet and wine auction.
- Limoux Carnival (Jan–Mar) — Longest carnival in the world with lively wine celebrations.

History, Culture & Prehistoric Art

Grotte de Niaux: Prehistoric cave paintings dating back 14,000 years.
Prehistoric Park, Tarascon: Family-friendly educational experience.
Toulouse: Vibrant city with markets, museums, and the Cité de l’Espace space centre.

Wildlife & Nature Lovers

Spot rare birds like Lammergeier, Egyptian Vulture, and Wallcreeper.
In the Pyrenees, watch for wild bears, wolves, and lynx.
Europe’s top site for terrestrial orchids, a must-see for botanists and photographers.

Practical Tips & Planning

Book wine tours in advance for a personalized experience.
Bike hire available locally for cycling enthusiasts.
Use local guides for hikes or castle tours to enrich your visit.

Suggested Day Trips

Foix: Historic town with a commanding château and access to the Pyrenees.
Carcassonne: Explore the medieval fortified city.
Niaux Caves: Visit ancient caves with spectacular prehistoric art.