Road trip on the Pyrenees road

From the foothills to the mountains: a week to discover the Couserans valleys.

Day 1: Piedmont

Morning: Visit du village of Tourtouse. It houses an interpretive trail that will allow you to discover this historical jewel. This typical village of Couserans has a particularity, because it is organized around a feudal mound, in an atmosphere medieval. It once housed the bishops of Saint-Lizier during the summer.

Afternoon : Walk in the Royal ForestDating back to the Ice Age, it's unique in Europe. You don't see that everywhere! The fir trees in this forest were used for the masts of the Royal Navy. A forest rich in wild flora that you can discover as you walk. And who knows, maybe you'll spot some delicious milkcaps (edible mushrooms) for your evening meal!

Night : Saint-Lizier parking lot or the guest room » The Blue Garden » in Saint-Girons

Day 2: Saint-Lizier and Saint-Girons

Morning : This time we give you two options: a version " we strollns the village”, because it really is the prettiest village in the area, full of history, with two cathedrals, a cloister, the Bishops’ Palace, and narrow streets that invite you to lose yourself in the past. Or, for the more athletic : Hiking in Tuc de MontcalivertThe Tuc de Montcalivert offers a 360° view of the Ariège Pyrenees mountain range. From the village of Saint-Lizier, it takes 3 hours to walk there and back with a 30m elevation gain. On your return, you will take the Way of Saint-Jacques de Compostelle and cross the pretty fortified town of Montjoie en Couserans. Not to be missed!

Afternoon : Departure for the adventure with the Via ferrata. Vertical horizon invites you to discover the Couserans through its Roc'AventurThroughout the course, different modules are offered, such as cliff climbing with small iron steps to facilitate the more difficult passages, cable passages with height assistance at hand level for greater support, ladders and wooden obstacles.

Night : The Moulis garden / Parking area next to the Saint-Girons aquatic center.

Day 3: Castillon Valley

Morning : Stop at the shop of Gourmet Mill. Le Moulin Gourmand is a family-run business with expertise passed down from generation to generation. A production of Pyrenean Tome cheese, commonly known as Bethmalais, with its more than local notes, a cheese typical of our region. As you can see, it's a must-try. This cheese is made on the other side of the river, in a small stone house. What more can I tell you, except to try it!

Afternoon : Direction the Col de le Core which offers a breathtaking view of the Bethmale Valley and the Upper Salat Valley (your next destination). On your way, stop at Lake Bethmale for a visit to this must-see. Especially in autumn, the array of colors is magnificent! Then, take the opportunity to visit our clog maker, one of the few in France still practicing this traditional craft. He will explain the making of these shoes, so typical of the Couserans region.

Night : Parking at the Col de la Core or the Escaleta hostel in Seix.

Day 4: Upper Salat Valley

Morning : Hiking in the Estours ValleyFrom the hamlet of Estours, head towards the Arcouzan Waterfall, which stretches over 70m in height. This hike through the lush forest and along the emerald-colored river offers a magnificent panorama of Mont Valier, the lord of the Couserans. You'll be amazed, that's for sure!

Afternoon : Visit the village of SeixA pearl nestled in the heart of the Couserans with a timeless charm. Surrounded by majestic mountains, this typical Couserans village is full of history that will take you on a journey through time. Whether you are looking for adventure or cultural discoveries, Seix has everything to satisfy you.

Night : Parking in Guzet or at the apartment "The Groundhog" in Aulus-Les-Bains.

Day 5: Garbet Valley

Morning : Hiking to the Ars WaterfallFor those who love hiking and beautiful landscapes, we highly recommend heading to this waterfall. Stretching over 246m in height, it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Pyrenees.

Afternoon : The village of Cominac. Take the direction of the village of Cominac. Located on the heights of the village of Ercé, it offers an exceptional view of the mountain range. It houses bird's-step houses, made of schist slabs called Peyrous, allowing residents to access the ridge.

Night : Parking at Col d'Agnes or in theapartment "La Marmotte" » in Aulus-Les-Bains.

Day 6: Massat Valley

Morning: Visit to the Courtal de Peyre Auselere. After descending the Col d'Agnes towards the Etang de Lers, head towards the village of Massat to discover this unique courtyard. There you will find Orris (like a stone igloo) which were used at the time to store butter and dairy products from the production. They could also be used to shelter animals during storms or excessively high temperatures. And then it is also the opportunity to stop by the river for a little relaxing moment in the heart of nature!

Afternoon : Caving Activity with Caving objectiveWith over 25 years of experience, Nicolas will take you on a journey to discover the Couserans caves and their rock, which is over 300 million years old and formed 50km underground. A blend of caving and geology, for a unique outing.

Night : Titmouse Chalet or the Col de la Crouzette.

Day 7: Séronnais Valley

Morning : Hiking the loop of MonsteronThis hike, located on the heights of the village, offers a view of the ruins of the castle of Saint-Barthélemy. In addition, it is a magnificent panorama of the Séronnais valley that you will have the opportunity to discover there. You can also take the opportunity to visit the reptile farm which raises more than 200 species of reptiles in the wild.

Afternoon : Visit to Combelongue Abbey and its remarkable gardens. This former abbey, founded in 1138 by the Count of Pallars, is an unmissable Romanesque historical site full of history. You'll find pure and symbolic sculpted decor, with Mudejar-influenced architecture. And you can take the opportunity to discover its gardens, labeled "Remarkable Gardens." A true Couserannais treasure! (Don't forget to call to reserve).

It should be noted : Take a gourmet break at the restaurant “ At Victor's", an unmissable address. With onion soup as its "signature starter," this place will bring back the nostalgic memories of Sunday meals at our grandmothers' house.

So, it's the end of your seventh day, time to head home! On your way back, we highly recommend taking the road that passes by the Mas d'Azil cave, it's a must-see, even if you don't stop... trust us! 

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