Saint-Girons

Visit Saint-Girons, Midi-Pyrenees

The quiet Ariege town of Saint-Girons is situated west of Foix and south of Cazeres in a small region known as Couserans, an attractive region of wood covered hills where the plains of Gascony meet the mountains of the Pyrenees and close to the ruins of the ancient city (and current village) of Saint Lizier.

The setting of the town is enhanced by its position on the river Salat at the point where it is joined by a smaller tributary, the Lez.

Exploring Saint-Girons

The heart of the old town is very characterful and a pleasure to explore, with a decent sprinkling of attractive buildings and shops to admire. The most picturesque part of the visit is the walk along the riverside and quais, then continuing across the old bridge to the park and the Palace of Justice (originally the Chateau of the Vicomtes of Couseran).

The two churches of Saint-Girons and Saint-Valiers are the main buildings of historical interest in the town. Saint-Girons church stands on the banks of the Salat River, with its 14th century belltower dominating the view along the riverbanks (although the main church is more recent, not built until the 19th century). The main feature at Saint-Valiers church is the 12th century facade.

Market day is saturday in St-Girons

Attractions nearby

The village of Saint Lizier just two kilometres away was a long time home to an opposing family of lords in the Couserans - it is now a picturesque village classified as one of the 'most beautiful villages in France'.

The location of Saint-Girons and the surrounding valleys (it is known as the region of 18 valleys) make it very well placed for exploring the Couserans, ideally on foot or bike. to make the most of your visit to this picturesque part of the Ariege.

See Midi-Pyrenees and Ariege (the region and department for Saint-Girons) for more travel ideas...

Suggested places to visit near Saint-Girons, France

Distances shown are direct, driving distances will be greater.

More suggestions: Pamiers 41km; Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges 47km;

Saint-Girons tourist information: sights and attractions nearby

Pyrenees Ariegeoises - regional natural parc (23km) : Vallée de Vicdessos - site of natural beauty (39km) : Montmaurin Gallo-Roman Villa - national monument (49km) :

See more places and a map at places near Saint-Girons