Easy - Walking with Children

The Ariege has many  spectacular, very high and extremely challenging mountains.  However, there are many well signposted walks that offer gentle, generally flat walking that allows the whole family  to easily enjoy the magnificent scenery.  We have a number of walking books and many maps, covering the whole area and all abilities.   For the younger ones, 4-5 years upwards, there is the 'Les Sentiers d'Emilie en Ariege',  with clear maps and route guides (In French!) covering local walks such as around Lac Mondelely to superb walks in the high mountains such as the National Park in the valley of Orlu, near Ax Les Thermes, where Marmots can be seen on the pathside!

A recent favourite was a circular walk to Chateau Roquefixade.  The walk is from the village, up through beautiful beech and oak woods, up onto the top of the limestone ridge with superb views to the high mountains, through pastures with grazing cattle then a drop down to the evocative and impressive Cathar castle.  You then continue your decent back to Roquefixade village.  About 2 hours walking, 200 meters of climbing, 3 km.  Easily achieved by our 4 year old daughter!