The Ariege is France's best kept holiday secret. It
is one
of the least populated, most unspoilt regions of France, whose inhabitants have
held fast to their traditions. Numerous species of butterflies,
orchids and
raptors
thrive here thanks to the continuation of ancient farming practices such as the Transhumance.
Far from the centres of power, Ariege has always served as a refuge: for
prehistoric man who sheltered in the many caves,
for the Cathar heretics who defied the Church, and for resistance fighters, refugees
and downed WWII pilots who eluded the Nazis to escape
over the mountains into Spain.
Caves
The Ariege has the largest concentration of caves
in France, and is one of the few remaining places where the public can see
original cave paintings, created by Magdalenian man between 12,000 and 9,000 BC.
Waterfalls
There
are numerous waterfalls throughout the Ariege valleys. The most famous and
impressive is the Cascade d'Ars, which plunges 110 meters in 3 stages.
UNDERGROUND
RIVER
Labouiche is the longest navigable
subterranean river in Europe at 60 metres below ground. You can take a guided
barge trip along the 1½ km stretch of water, gliding serenely past ghostly rock
formations.
Medieval
Towns
St. Lizier,
just 10 miles away is officially classified as one of France's most beautiful
villages. There are many other splendid examples in the area, such as: Mirepoix, St. Ybars,
St. Martin d'Oydes, Carla Bayle and Tourtouse.
Cathar chateaux
In the 12th and
13th century, the Cathar
religion became established in this part of France. It was crushed in 1244,
culminating in the storming of the castle of Montsegur.
Local Festivals
are frequent throughout the
summer with music, dance and arts themes. Click here for a complete schedule
of events.