Discover castles and caves in Ariège

Grotte du Mas-d’Azil: an underground experience

Just a ten-minute drive from the park is the impressive Grotte du Mas-d'Azil. This cave is unique: you can literally drive through it by car. Inside, you will discover fascinating prehistoric remains, including mammoth bones and rock carvings dating back thousands of years. Well worth a visit, especially on a hot day.

Reception tip: Book a guided tour with a time slot in advance, so you don't have to wait. Don't forget the museum next door, which is included free of charge with your cave ticket.
Walking route nearby:

• Les Terrasses de Souribet walk – view the itinerary here

More caves to discover

In addition to Mas-d'Azil, the Grotte de Bédeilhac is also highly recommended. This cave is a little further away, but offers spectacular formations and rock carvings that are thousands of years old. A perfect outing for those interested in history and nature.

Our tip: combine a visit to Bédeilhac with a drive through the Parc Naturel Régional des Pyrénées Ariégeoises. Along the way, you will pass rivers, forests and authentic French villages.

Medieval spectacle at Château de Foix

The Château de Foix is about half an hour's drive from our holiday park. It towers high above the town and offers a magnificent view of the valley. Inside, you can walk through interactive exhibitions that bring medieval life to life.

Reception tip: Start the day at the castle and then walk down for lunch in the neighbourhood. Are you travelling with children? The weapon demonstrations at the weekend are great fun! 
Walking tours:

• Le chemin des fontaines - view the itinerary here

Quick stop at Cathar castles

For true castle enthusiasts, there are also the ruins of Roquefixade and Montségur. These are a little further away, but can easily be combined with the Cathar route.

Reception tip: Ask us for maps, pack some snacks and keep your camera handy, because the views are stunning! 

Views and history at Tour du Castella – Tarascon-sur-Ariège

The charming town of Tarascon-sur-Ariège is about a 20-minute drive away. Here, the Tour du Castella towers high above the town centre: a round bell tower from the 18th century, built on the foundations of a medieval keep. The view from the tower is spectacular, overlooking the Ariège valley and the surrounding mountains.

Reception tip: Combine a visit to the tower with a stroll through the historic centre of Tarascon. There is ample parking on the outskirts of the town. The walk to the tower is short, but slightly uphill. It is also nice to combine with a cup of coffee or lunch in the square.

An extra recommendation: also visit the nearby Tour Saint-Michel, a 24-metre-high square tower that used to be part of the old church of Tarascon. Both towers give you a nice insight into local history.

Practical tips:

• Opening hours and tickets: check the seasonal calendar on tourist websites for all opening hours and tickets, or pick up brochures at reception.

• Driving/walking combinations: combine a visit to Grotte du Mas-d'Azil by car with a walk in the surrounding area. Near Foix, we recommend the Saint-Sauveur walk.

• Seasonal advice: Spring and early autumn are ideal. It can be busy in summer; outside the high season, it is more relaxed and often cheaper.

• Tip from the park: Stop by reception to borrow free walking maps or ask for our tips on the most beautiful viewpoints along the routes.