Places to explore

Carcasonne: This medieval fortress town survived intact the Cathar wars and has made it the second most visited site in France. The walls and turrets have been restored and you can appreciate its magnificent splendour. The narrow streets and small squares house many interesting craft shops and it is an excellent place to find interesting souvenirs.

Other Cathar castles within easy reach are Foix,a fairytale castle in good repair; Roquefixade which is the next village and the mountain fortress of Montsegur, the last castle to fall in the Albigensian Crusade where a massacre took place. You can see the castle from our house.

Spain and Andorra: Both only about 90 minutes away by car on a beautiful mountain road make an interesting day out. Andorra (la Vella) is a shoppers’ paradise with duty free shopping.

Albi : Under two hours drive, the Toulouse Lautrec Museum and the imposing cathedral are well worth a visit.

Figueres:  The Salvador Dali Museum is a must. There are several parts to this museum showing all aspects of his work. It can be enjoyed by adults and children alike and is a memorable day out.

St Lizier: This ancient Roman town is classed amongst the most beautiful villages of France. It is a resting point on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostella and boasts the Archbishops Palace and two Cathedrals.

Labouiche: You can go with a guide by boat on the largest underground navigable river in Europe. An exciting experience!

Mirepoix: A beautiful walled town (bastide) with its impressive square surrounded by a medieval colonnade boasts one of the best markets in the Ariege.  Monday is the day to visit!

Grotte de Mas d’Azil: The road and river run through this enormous grotto and the sound of the rushing water is very exciting. Kids love this!

Forge de Pyrennes. An outdoor museum of life and crafts in former times, this is 7 kilometres away and makes a good afternoon out.

Le Parc de l’Art Prehistorique: Life in the time of Cave men is beautifully recreated here with many activities and a great time out for the children

La Ferme aux Bisons:  The Bison farm with daily visits by tractor drawn carts or in 4x4s is not far. It has its own restaurant with produce from the farm (reservations necessary)

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