Mountain and winter sports Ariège

Above Les Cabannes, on the Beille plateau, lies the first cross-country skiing area in the Pyrenees, also the first snow stadium on a national level. The altitude guarantees one of the best snow conditions. The natural area is preserved and gives off a real breath of pure and invigorating air. A 19 km track runs in a training loop at the end of the plateau. The resort is for all ages. 70 km of Nordic ski trails: 1 green, 4 blue, 5 red, 2 black. 40 km of snowshoeing trails; sledging area. Access from Toulouse by A66 and Foix tunnel.

Only a 30-hour drive from Toulouse, the Beille resort offers a total change of scenery. In addition to its stunning view of the Pyrennées, it would appear that the station has a similar fauna and flora to Scandinavia! And the best way to check it is probably a snowshoe trip in the station. Numerous pedestrian routes and snowshoes are marked, from 2,5 km (L'Shaded) to 12 km (L'Bears), at the level of varying difficulty.

Tariff: from 6 € the Pass Day.

Duration: free.

Difficulty: the choice.

It is the second Nordic resort of the Ax valleys after the Plateau de Beille. Intended for cross-country skiers, hikers and walkers, the Domain benefits from numerous forest paths in the middle of 5,000 hectares of woods and virgin spaces. A total of 65 km of tracks, groomed and marked out following the natural course of the paths to the gates of the villages or at the foot of the remains of the Cathar castle of Montaillou. Pedestrian itineraries and 15 km of marked trails for snowshoeing. Restaurant in the center of the resort with panoramic terrace.

From the Bonascre plateau to the Saquet peak, the largest ski area in Ariège and the most complete in the Pyrenees extends, an admirable site where snow and sun are married for eternity in the heart of a wild nature. The 3 Domaines unite the slopes of Bonascre, Saquet and Campels and communicate with each other in a single, vast carpet of skiing. Thanks to the quality of its facilities for the disabled, Ax has been awarded the Handisport label. A cable car links the town to the resort.

The Monts d'Olmes have a significant snow coverage with a battery of snow cannons. The slopes are short, but technically interesting and very pleasant. Ideal for skiing or surfing thanks to facilities that will delight surfers. On-line ski pass refill. Very nice and patient reception of the cashiers. A resort that we like for its family side. In summer, Tyrolean descent in mountain bike, arapaho. In summer and winter, discover a grandiose natural setting.

Above Auzat and Vicdessos, it is by a winding road that you will reach this small Sport Nature resort at the foot of Montcalm. One of the most convivial of the department, far from the spirit of competition. You almost feel at home. It is possible to combine two sporting activities by going from the spatulas to the stirrup with weekends of skiing and horse riding. 4 ski lifts, 6 trails including 2 green 2 red 2 blue summarize the whole circuit of 7km. Children's area.

Ascou remains the resort "the nice resort close to Toulouse". Specialized in the reception of the youngest, the station reserves them its snow garden and a sledging area apart. But skiers of good level, among which snowboarders, should also find their happiness. Monoskiing, snowboarding, skating and snowshoeing are all techniques used to experience the snow. Nice : shuttle from Ax-les-Thermes on week-ends and during school vacations. Alpine ski slopes : 20 km of slopes, ski lifts, snow cannons.

Le Domaine du Chiaoula offers five snowshoe courses, from level to level confirmed. Standard itineraries are relatively short: 2 km (Chemin du Refuge) 5 km (Col du Riufred). It is therefore possible to combine several in the same day, depending on the time and energy you have. The heart of the snow (and skiing) network is the Refuge refuge, which can be reached within an hour's walk. It will offer you a pleasant break, and especially well deserved!

Tariff: from € 6 for the Day Pass.

Duration: free.

Difficulty: at the choice (several possible levels).

Whether you are looking for strong or traditional sensations in winter sports, the Beille resort has what you need. Nordic skiing enthusiasts can take advantage of the courses that strient the station, from the easy to experienced level. Those who want to try something new will be able to try downhill skiing within the Zone of Northern Evolution. You will then have to detach from the linear line to bypass bumps or try jumps and other slides. During the school holidays, "races for laughs" are organised every Saturday.

Tariff: from € 10,50 for the Day Pass.

Duration: free.

Difficulty: .

Situated at an altitude of 1,300 metres, Etang de Lers welcomes sports enthusiasts and mountain lovers in winter and summer alike. When the snow begins to cover the slopes, a vast Nordic area comes to life. A total of 25 kilometers of Nordic ski trails and 23 kilometers of snowshoe trails are marked out every year. A toboggan run and an orienteering course complete this family-friendly area. Dogs are allowed in the pedestrian area.