The valley of l’Ariège , surrounded by spectacular mountains, has managed to preserve over time, its rich historical tradition in a wild but accessible environment. Its extension covers part of the central Pyrenees , culminating in its altitude at the peak of Esta , at 3,143 meters.
This region has many tourist attractions: from the most important prehistoric caves in France to castles from medieval times. In the center of the region, Foix stands out powerfully for its castle nestled on a rock. The town also offers the visitor many charms: the old town, remains of medieval times , cultural events and a wide variety of services and shops.
About 37 kilometers from Foix, the beautiful town of Mirepoix , built between the 13th and 15th centuries, is home to one of the most beautiful cathedrals in France.
Rock art
Grotte de Niaux . In the Vicdessos valley, this grotto houses one of the best collections of cave paintings in all of France. Between 12,000 and 14,000 years ago, prehistoric artists shaped their art in the form of figures of horses, deer, bison and goats. The great circular room of the Salon Noir stands out notably for its magnificent state of conservation, showing the splendor of Magdalenian art.
Parc Pyrénéen de l’Art Préhistorique . It is a complex that recreates several of the most important caves, transporting the visitor to a distant past, through the darkness of its rooms. To carry out the visit, each tourist is provided with an infrared helmet and headphones, which will serve as a guide. Located in the vicinity of Tarascon.
Grotte de la Vache . There are traces of human presence from the Magdalenian period such as weapons, bones, sculptures and tools. It is located one kilometer from Niaux.
Grotte de Bédeilhac . Located about six kilometers from Tarascon, this huge cave has a large number of stalagmites and drawings of animals on its walls.
Grotte de Lombrives . It houses a large cave of more than 100 meters, called La Cathédrale, and the route is done in a small train.
Grotte de Mas d’Azil . Close to Foix, this cave is divided into other smaller ones and its entrance is a huge tunnel. The remains of tools, bones and carved stones are numerous.
Rivière Souterraine de Labouiche . It is an underground river more than five kilometers long, close to the town of Foix. A boat tour will show us the beauty of its illuminated stalagtites and stalagmites.