August is flying by, but the holidays aren’t over yet, and some may feel the need to escape to the mountains for some fresh air. Here are 5 things you absolutely must do if you’re in Ariège for the holidays:
1. Château de Roquefixade
Location and Accessibility
Located between Foix and Lavelanet, perched atop a cliff and accessible only after a thirty-minute walk, discover the fortress of Roquefixade. Its name, Roquefixade (rocca fissada, split rock), comes from the arch spanning a fault on the northern slope.
Historical Significance
The origins of this castle date back to the 11th century. Witness to the Albigensian Crusade, the castle was eventually bought by the King of France, Philippe the Bold, who decided to make it a royal fortress.
Exploring the Area
The ascent to the castle is via a marked trail, and 12 trails have also been developed around Roquefixade.
Nearby Attractions
The bonus? About 20 minutes away, you will find the Roquefort waterfalls, a true natural curiosity. Over thirty meters high, the Roquefort waterfalls have created a rare and very fragile phenomenon: a tufa.
2. Lac de Bethmale
Location and Scenery
Located in Bethmale, the lake of the same name is not far from the small town of Saint-Girons. Nestled in a green setting at an altitude of 1074 meters, the lake will charm you with its crystal-clear water and emerald colors.
Activities and Facilities
Take a walk around this jewel of the Couserans mountains and enjoy the picnic facilities for a family outing. Swimming is prohibited, but for fishing enthusiasts, it’s a paradise of a thousand fish waiting for you in this mountain nook.
Unique Features
The house overlooking the lake gives a mystical air to the place, and the sound of the waterfalls you’ll hear once parked will delight any nature lover. It’s a great walk to take in any season, as the landscapes adapt beautifully to the weather, becoming magnificent in all circumstances.
Accommodation
For those who want to enjoy the disconnection that this lake offers, the house overlooking it is actually a guesthouse where you can rent a room to enjoy this idyllic landscape longer.
3. Ruins of the Château de Montespan
Historical Background
The ruins of this castle let us imagine the past grandeur of the Montespan lineage. The Montespan family became famous thanks to the Marquise who was King Louis XIV’s favorite for over ten years.
Current Condition
The castle ruins, very easily accessible, are quite well preserved. Sometimes, entire walls remain in their original height, allowing us to imagine the beautiful residence during the family’s time.
Architectural Features
The residence was built in the 13th century and gradually expanded in the 14th century. Its square keep, 21 meters high, and its round tower are among the vestiges that have been partially preserved. Once, the castle consisted of three enclosures, the largest enveloping the other two on at least three sides.
Scenic Views
Additionally, an unobstructed view of the Garonne plain and the Pyrenees makes the walk even more attractive.
4. Abbaye de Bonnefont de Comminges
Foundation and Early History
Founded in 1136 by Cistercian monks from Lorraine, the Abbey of Bonnefont was established on deserted lands given by the seigneurial family of Montpezat.
Revolution and Aftermath
The abbey was dissolved during the Revolution, and its assets were sold. The abbey’s stones were quickly dispersed. While most were resold locally, some found their way to more distant places like the Cloisters in New York.
Restoration Efforts
In 1983, the abbey was bought by two associations with a common goal: to restore and enhance it. A year later, the remains of the building were listed and classified as historical monuments, and numerous restoration works began.
Current Status
Since 2021, the abbey has been managed by a syndicate that ensures its management and touristic development. Though partially in ruins, it remains visitable to our great delight.
5. La Vallée de Riberot
Nature and Accessibility
A little corner of paradise at the start of a hike, it’s a magnificent nature walk awaiting you. Accessible to all, the place will charm you with its beautiful landscapes.
Trail Information
The Riberot valley is a short two-kilometer walk, even accessible with an all-terrain stroller.
Facilities
Not to be overlooked, it has picnic areas and public toilets.
Scenic Beauty
Let yourself be amazed by the beautiful landscapes of the Ariège mountains.
Enjoy your visit to Ariège and make the most of these incredible sites!
