REGIONAL NATURAL PARK OF THE ARIÈGE PYRENEES

An hour's drive south of Toulouse, there is a territory that unites the highest peaks of the Ariège with the valleys of Piedmont, as far as the Plantaurel crests. It offers an exceptional natural heritage, home to several endemic and endangered species: isard, Iberian ibex, bearded vulture, brown bear, Pyrenean desman, capercaillie... Its history, culture, built heritage and breathtaking natural sites (Ars waterfall, Cagateille circus, Biros or Vicdessos valleys...) make it one of the most remarkable sites in the Pyrenees. Since 2009, this region covering 141 communes and populated by 46,000 people is protected by the status of Regional Natural Park. It is therefore run by a passionate team whose ambition is to preserve, enhance and energise an area with sumptuous landscapes in which it maintains trails, natural sites and refuges for non-motorised discovery. The Park also welcomes and informs visitors, offering them environmentally friendly discovery and leisure activities. On the programme, visits adapted to all, allowing visitors to understand the natural heritage, history, traditional know-how... There are also numerous activities, hikes supervised by professional guides and popular festivals for convivial gatherings.