Ariege Vacation Rentals

Secluded mountain valleys, soaring Pyrenean peaks and verdant landscape; The Ariege is a hidden paradise just waiting for you to discover it. Cocooned from the scorching heat of the Mediterranean by the mountains which define it, the Ariege remains green throughout the year and offers a welcome respite in the height of summer. Winters are cold and crisp with plenty of snow, making it an excellent destination for skiers of all levels. Resorts at Ax-les Thermes and Guzet Neige remain relatively unknown and so more family-friendly than the more hectic resorts in the Alps. Outdoor activities are really what the Ariege is all about. There’s kayaking, rock-climbing, parapenting, mountain biking and not forgetting, many spectacular mountain lakes for summer swimming. The local breed of Merens horses are the ideal companion for a ride in the hills. Or you could simply rent a donkey and hike across many of the national hiking routes such as the GR10 that traverse this area. The mountain roads offer fantastic cycling with famous cols such as Agnes and Plateau de Beille and every year you get an armchair view as the Tour de France cycling extravaganza whizzes past. But for those seeking a more sedentary holiday, the Ariege has plenty to offer. Lose yourself in time in the caves at Niaux with their pre-historic paintings on a par with those at Lascaux or visit the Cathar castle at Montségur for a taste of how things used to be. The medieval town of Mirepoix with its preserved square of timbered houses is an ideal place to have a coffee while the town of Foix offers more modern entertainment with cafes, restaurants and shops all arrayed beneath the towering castle of the prefectural capital. Of course, this being France, food is important. Sample the local cuisine of Confit de Canard, Cassoulet and Foie gras, all regular features on the menu accompanied by mountain cheeses such as Bethmale and Rogallais, fresh from the summer pastures of the Pyrenees. With easy access to Spain and Andorra and even the Mediterranean coast, the Ariege is the perfect place to base yourself for an amazing holiday in this corner of Europe. Getting here couldn’t be easier. Ryan-air flies from London to Carcassonne and EasyJet flies direct from London to Toulouse with links to Paris and Madrid for those wishing to go further. Car rental from either airport is straightforward and within an hour you can be exploring the Ariege.