'Chez Tortue' Bed & Breakfast Midi Pyrenees

 

Home     Our Local Area      The Ariege     Days Out      Pyrenees Walking

 

 

The Ariege Pyrenees.

 

Little known outside France and to an extent the Low Countries, the Ariege Department lies directly south of Toulouse, on the route to Andorra, rising dramatically to the high Pyrenees mountain range on the border with Spain. From towering peaks to sandy lakeside beaches, dramatic wildlife including bears, wolves (well at least in a park) plus easily observed magnificent birds such as the huge Griffon vultures and rainbow coloured Bee-eaters, the Ariege could be justifiably called 'Europe's New Zealand'. Add to this heady mix the mystery, drama and tragedy of the history of the region, in particular the 'Cathars', with their towering castles and blood curdling stories, then the appeal of the Ariege is boundless. The 'Ariegeoise' people themselves are welcoming, open, proud and seem very in tune with their surroundings. With easy access in all directions, east to the Mediterranean Sea in less than 2 hours, the wild and beautiful Atlantic Coast 2 hours to the west, the Ariege has a great deal to offer for all ages, activities and interests, with the common link of enjoying the great outdoors, dramatic history, stunning scenery and mouth-watering cuisine, all under a warming sun.