French Pyrenees Walking
Essential Walking Information & Guides.
Contact Richard here for more information & advice
Home Walk Pyrenees Our gite B&B Ariege for Kids Walks
We have a comprehensive list
of autumn/winter walks with stunning views and opportunities to observe
spectacular Pyrenees wildlife such as
Vultures, Golden Eagle, Marmots and Izzards plus much more. The area is full of history, interest and boundless
unspoilt Pyrenees countryside......
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1. Mas D'Azil cave, Neolithic stones and limestone ridges. 20 minutes.
Starting in the picturesque
market town of Maz D'Azil there are a number of walks (easy to medium in
height climbed/terrain) that
take in both the giant prehistoric cave (right), beautiful limestone ridges
and even Neolithic Dolmen stones (below). The area is steeped in
ancient history, fascinating geography, geology, spring flowers and diverse
wildlife, plus stunning views to the higher Pyrenees.
2.
Roquefixade
Cathar Castle circular walk. Length 4 km. 15 minutes from Foix.
35 minutes from our gite.
This wonderful walk is a personal favourite, taking in an ancient Beech & Oak wood, opening to a grassy hilltop overlooking the high Pyrenees before dropping down to the Chateau Roquefixade, an evocative Cathar castle sitting high on a limestone crag. This walk involves some steep paths, but is accessible for anyone of reasonable fitness (our children when younger easily managed this walk!) but boots are certainly advisable. In the spring the path side is adorned with flowers, and many types of birds can be observed within the woods, in the open and around the crags. This walk in part is on the route of the 'Cathar way' which links up many of the spectacular Cathar castles that are found in this region. If you would like more information on this route, and especially how we can help you complete sections of this path, then please do contact us.
3. Around Pechine
Artigat. 10 minutes.
There are a number of beautiful,
easy walks in the foothills of the Pyrenees, even direct from our gardens.
You can enjoy rolling hills, woodland, pretty villages, stunning views to
the high mountains plus observe a wide variety of wildlife, even right on
your doorstep. A prominent World Leader has enjoyed a number of family
holidays in this village!
4. Orlu Nature Reserve. 1.15 hours.
Just 15 minutes beyond the
pretty Spa town of Ax Les Thermes is the spectacular Orlu Valley a
designated National
Nature Reserve. You can see Marmots, Izzards and even Bearded Vultures
within the reserve. You can enjoy a short walk in woodland by a
beautiful mountain stream or you can easily access the glacial valley end
that leads on to higher peaks. You can even hire a donkey to carry
your picnic or children up the valley!
Within the valley is also an excellent wolf park 'Maison de Loups' and a tree climbing adventure park, both open from April onwards.
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There are numerous walks & routes across this beautiful part of France to thrill all ages & abilities. With wide open, unspoilt vistas, varied & abundant wildlife, the Ariege offers some wonderful experiences in a surprisingly accessible yet spectacular wilderness.
Please do contact Richard for more advice & information.