Activities

If you want, there is a lot to do and see in Ariege, here are some ideas:

• Walk any of the hundreds of marked trails around the area, choices of forestry, historical trails, river walks, mountain hikes.

• Museums, art exhibitions. Ariege is famous for its local Artisans, you can view some art and sculpture exhibitions within 15 mins drive in Carla Bayle which in a whole village filled with artwork.

• Taste the local produce, the wine, organic meat, honey, fresh eggs, vegetables, bread and cheese and the famous Cassoulet. Many markets and farms nearby make and sell their own organic produce.

• Explore the caves of Mas-d’Azil and Niaux.

• Take a trip to Spain (Andorra) and travel through the mystic mountains or enjoy tax-free shopping.

• Of course, if you are a cyclist, you cannot miss the Tour de France which passes close by the house.

• Visit Toulouse, the red city is named after it’s commonly used red bricks in buildings. Toulouse is a glamorous and beautifully characteristic city. The shopping is great and the nightlife splendid. A worthwhile visit is to the Airbus centre of aviation.

• The Mediterranean beaches are within 2 hours drive, and the Atlantic ocean is about 3 hours.

We have a beautiful swimming pool, but there are also indoor fun pools/slides perfect for children on the (rare) rainy or cold days. In Carla Bayle, there is a free swimming lake with lifeguard (15 min drive). In Saverdun there is an outdoor waterpark (inflatables) and a fantastic restaurant there to enjoy. It is possible for good swimmers to bathe in rivers, we recommend Bonnac or Cintegabelle. Animal parks can be found in each direction, even a dinosaur park and a prehistoric park explaining all about the caves in the area and its history.

Markets:

There are markets on almost any day of the week. For example:

Mirepoix

If you want to take an easy stroll on a Monday morning, the market of the little Medieval town of Mirepoix is incredible for making you feel like you are sent back in time. Very influenced by the British so you can even get cream teas there.

Montbrun

The town of the chilled out traditional life lovers. With lots of happy people selling organic vegetables, crafts and musical instruments. You can take donkey rides and eat a chickpea curry which will set you off for the day! Watch craftsman at work. With beautiful walks around the town, car-free and child friendly. The market runs every Sunday morning and is surely worth a visit.