Ariege
With Cottage Parks, choose an eco-chic campsite in the Ariège to discover its breathtaking landscapes, picturesque villages and heritage rich in history.
For your next vacation, find out everything you need to know before looking for (and finding) your future ecological campsite in Ariège with Cottage Parks.
Ariège, the ideal destination for your camping vacation
Nestled in the heart of the Pyrenees, between Aude, Aveyron, Haute-Garonne and Pyrénées-Orientales, Ariège is the perfect destination for a camping vacation in Occitanie.
With its vast forests, majestic mountains and crystal-clear rivers, the département offers nature lovers plenty of places to camp.
Regional nature parks, such as the Pyrénées ariégeoises, are ideal for hiking, wildlife observation and nature walks.
Ariège is also a land of heritage, with its prehistoric caves, castles and medieval villages.
If you like sporting activities, the Ariège offers endless possibilities for hiking, climbing, mountain biking, canyoning and water sports.
You can also go fishing or simply swim in the rivers.
Thanks to its mild mountain climate in summer, camping in the Ariège is a very pleasant experience.
The days are sunny, perfect for exploring, while the evenings are cool, ideal for relaxing after a day of adventure.
Things to see in Ariege during your Cottage Parks camping vacation
The Ariège region abounds in breathtaking natural sites. Among the must-sees is the Parc naturel régional des Pyrénées ariégeoises, offering spectacular panoramas and home to exceptional biodiversity, including isards, golden eagles and marmots. The Gorges de la Frau feature an impressive canyon, shaped by the river over thousands of years, while the Lac d’Oô and Lac de l’Artigue are perfect places for hiking and relaxing by the water. For caving enthusiasts, the Grotte de Niaux is a prehistoric site famous for its cave paintings, taking visitors on a fascinating journey through time.
Here are some other natural sites to discover in this region:
- The Mas d’Azil cave. This huge cave with a river running through it is a spectacular site, unique in Europe. Visit its impressive caverns to learn more about prehistoric human presence, thanks to exhibitions on archaeological discoveries.
- Mont Valier. The emblematic highest point in the Ariège at 2,838 meters, Mont Valier is a popular destination for experienced hikers. The views are magnificent, and it is often considered one of the most beautiful peaks in the Pyrenees. The Estagnous refuge, halfway up the mountain, is an excellent place to stop off.
- The Ars waterfall. One of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Pyrenees, with a drop of almost 250 metres in three levels. It is particularly impressive in spring, when the melting snow feeds the torrent. The hike to the waterfall offers a magnificent view over the Garbet valley.
- The Bassiès ponds. This group of high-altitude lakes, nestled in the heart of the mountains, is a true natural gem. Accessible after a pleasant hike, the Bassiès ponds offer soothing scenery, perfect for a day out. It’s also a popular spot for anglers and bivouac enthusiasts.
To visit in Ariège
Picturesque towns and villages
Ariège has no shortage of charming towns and villages to discover. Foix, the prefecture, seduces with its imposing medieval castle dominating the town and its cobbled streets full of character. Pamiers, the department’s largest town, offers an attractive blend of ancient and modern architecture. Stop off at Tarascon-sur-Ariège. Situated at the confluence of several rivers, this small town is a gateway to the mountains. It’s also famous for its proximity to the Niaux cave.
But the list goes on! Here are some other must-sees:
Saint-Lizier
An ancient Gallo-Roman town, listed as one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages, Saint-Lizier is famous for its cathedral, Romanesque cloister, medieval streets and magnificent views of the Pyrenees.
Mirepoix
This medieval village, with its central square surrounded by half-timbered houses and arcades, is one of Ariège’s jewels. The weekly market held here is very popular.
Montségur
Known for its Cathar castle perched on a rocky outcrop, Montségur is an important site in the history of the Cathars and an ideal starting point for hikes in the surrounding mountains.
Massat
This village in the heart of the Pyrenees is appreciated for its peaceful atmosphere and natural setting, but also for its population of artists and craftsmen who contribute to its unique atmosphere.
Aulus-les-Bains
This mountain village, famous for its thermal baths, nestles in a green valley. It’s an excellent starting point for hikes to the Ars waterfall or Mont Valier.
Ax-les-Thermes
A renowned spa town, Ax-les-Thermes offers both natural hot springs and easy access to the ski slopes in winter. The town center is a pleasant place to visit, with open-air public baths.
Camon
Nicknamed the “village of a hundred roses”, Camon is another of France’s Most Beautiful Villages. This fortified village is charming with its roses climbing up the facades and its stone houses.
Seix
Seix is a charming mountain village with cobbled streets and a castle, and an excellent base for exploring the Haut-Salat valleys and hiking.
In this carousel, you’ll find a selection of sites not to be missed:
Things to do in Ariège
During your eco-chic camping holiday
Ariège is the ideal playground for adventure and outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking is one of the key activities, with a variety of trails to suit all levels, including the famous GR10 trail through the Pyrenees.
Whitewater sports enthusiasts can enjoy rafting and canoeing on the region’s rivers.
For a more tranquil experience, relaxation enthusiasts can enjoy a dip in the natural hot springs around Ax-les-Thermes or a day exploring the Niaux cave, a prehistoric site renowned for its cave paintings dating back over 13,000 years.
Here are some other possibilities:
- Hiking on Mont Valier or the Plateau de la Beille
- Visit the traditional markets of Foix and Saint-Girons
- Picnic on the banks of the Ariège and Vicdessos rivers
- Skiing in Ax 3 Domaines
- Visit Montsegur castle
- Swimming at Lac de Goulours
- Climbing the Orgibet rock faces
- Horseback riding in the Ariège forests
- Hot-air balloon ride over the castles of the Pays de Foix
- Visit to La Maison des loups wildlife park in Orlu
Ariege gastronomy is a delight that reflects the region’s natural wealth. Influenced by mountain traditions, it offers a simple yet tasty cuisine based on quality local produce.
Ariège is famous for its goat cheeses, such as Pélardon, Bethmale and Tomme des Pyrénées, and traditional charcuterie such as jambon de pays and dry sausage.
Cassoulet, a stew of white beans and various meats, is a must. There are also mustard chicken and mutton stews that showcase local flavors.
Spit-roasted cakes, baked on a rotating spit, croustade, an apple pastry, and pastis ariégeois, crunchy cookies, are typical sweets of the region, perfect with coffee or tea.
Ariège: events
all year round
Ariege is the scene of numerous annual events that bring the region to life throughout the year. These events add a cultural and festive dimension to your vacation in Ariège, making every stay even more memorable.
- Foix Earth Festival – May
- La fête de la Saint-Jean de Mirepoix – June
- Jazz Stars – July
- Foix Street Arts Festival – August
- Féria de Saint-Girons – August
- Gastronomy Festival in Tarascon-sur-Ariège – September
- Tarascon-sur-Ariège Circus Festival – October
- Christmas market in Mirepoix and Tarascon-sur-Ariège – December
Book your eco-friendly campsite in Ariège with Cottage Parks
Book your eco-responsible campsite in Ariège with Cottage Parks for an authentic and unique experience in the heart of nature while preserving the environment.
Nestled in exceptional mountain scenery, our eco-chic campsites promise much more than just a holiday destination between Languedoc and Gascony.
When you choose Cottage Parks, you combine relaxation, adventure and ecological commitment, for a vacation that nourishes both body and soul.
Book now to immerse yourself in the natural charms of the Ariège and experience a vacation where every day is a celebration of natural beauty and a commitment to responsible tourism.