Ariege places to visit and attractions
Below you can explore some of the most popular highlights and places of interest in the Ariege department of Midi-Pyrenees. See also our Ariege travel guide
Audressein
Audressein is a very small village in a picturesque river valley, visited for the ancient frescoes in the porch of the church See guide
Ax-les-Thermes
A spa town since the 19th century, Ax-les-Thermes is now better known for being close to the Ax-3 Domaines ski region See guide
Camon
The fortified village of Camon, listed as a 'most beautiful village of France' is one of our favourites in this region See guide
Chateau de Foix
The chateau de Foix is an impressive medieval castle on a rocky spur in the Ariege valley See guide
Foix
The narrow medieval streets, the imposing castle above the town and the lovely setting make Foix an unmissable destination in Ariege See guide
Grotte de Lombrives
Not the most famous caves perhaps but the Grotte de Lombrives is the largest cave system in France See guide
Mirepoix
In Mirepoix it is the beautifully preserved centre of the bastide town that is the highlight for visitors See guide
Montjoie-en-Couserans
The tiny village of Montjoie-en-Couserans is included because it is the start point of a picturesque driving tour of the surrounding villages See guide
Montsegur
In Montsegur be sure to visit the cathar castle with its lovely far-reaching views See guide
Pamiers
The largest town in Ariege, Pamiers has several notable monuments including the cathedral and the church See guide
Saint-Girons
Saint-Girons is a quiet town, a perfect chance to see an unspoiled local town typical of this region See guide
Saint-Lizier
A small village in the Natural Regional Park of the Ariege Pyrenees, Saint-Lizier is very picturesque and also has a cathedral and other notable monuments See guide
Tourtouse
Although tiny, the castle (and picnic area) in the centre of Tourtouse make a detour recommended See guideFor more information see the Ariege guide
Market towns & days in Ariege
all markets in morning unless otherwise stated
Aulus-les-Bains: Sunday (high season only)
Ax-les-Thermes: Thursday (high season only)
Ax-les-Thermes: Tuesday & Saturday
Belesta: Tuesday & Thursday
La Bastide-de-Serou: Thursday
Lavelanet: Wednesday & Friday
Lezat-sur-Leze: Saturday
Mazeres: Thursday
Mirepoix: Thursday & Monday
Pamiers: Tuesday & Saturday
Saint-Girons: Saturday
Saverdun: Friday
Seix: Wednesday (high season only)
Tourist attractions to visit in Ariege
The following sites have received official "tourist classifications"...
Sites of Natural Beauty
Fontaine Intermittente de Fontestorbes
Vallée de Vicdessos
Listed 'Remarkable Gardens'
Parc aux Bambous
Regional Natural Parcs
Pyrenees Ariegeoises
Villages classified as "most beautiful villages"
Camon: See tourist guide
Saint-Lizier: See tourist guide
UNESCO world heritage sites
Audressein Église Notre-Dame de Tramesaygues (monuments on French pilgrim routes): See tourist guide
Saint Lizier cathédrale (monuments on French pilgrim routes): See tourist guide