Activities
Cycling
You will be spoilt for choice in this region. Great if you love: easy cycle paths, Tour de France climbs, long-distance cycling routes, mountain biking, Ariège has it all.
There are two long bike paths between major towns which have been created on top of former railway lines. They are known as "voie verte".
Mirepoix to Lavelanet (38 km)
Foix to St Girons (42 km)
A recently built voie verte runs within meters from La Maison de Bosc and allows a car free access to Mirepoix and a neighbouring village Rieucros.
To prepare for cycling trips and holidays, there is a collaborative website that lists drinking water points and public toilets available in France for cyclists. You can find the link here https://www.eau-cyclisme.com/
We are committed to the well-being of our cycling guests. We are also cyclists and enjoy the beautiful trails around the gîte!
This means that we provide :
a secure room for your bikes
a repair kit (keys, oils, punctures, brake cables, foot pump...)
a hose to wash your bikes
maps and routes
Guests of La Maison de Bosc can take advantage of the on-site bicycle rental, and choose from a selection of mountain bikes and electric bikes with an impressive 120 km battery range.
Annual cycling events in Ariège
JUNE
Cyclosportive l'Ariégeoise
- Every summer in June the Ariège Organisation Cycliste organizes a non-competitive race starting in Tarascon that features routes for different levels of ability. For more information, visit the web site https://www.cyclosport-ariegeoise.com/
JULY
Tour de France - The TdF passes through Ariège nearly every year. 2022 edition: Stage 16, Carcassonne to Foix: 178 km, 2 Cat 1 climbs at Port de Lers and Mur de Péguère. See https://www.letour.fr/en/
SEPTEMBER
Mémorial Fabio Casartelli
- In 1995 St. Girons was the starting point for one of the stages of the Tour de France. Less than two hours later, at the col du Portet d'Aspet, the Italian rider Fabio Casartelli was fatally injured in a fall.
Since 1997 the cycling association of the has Couserans organised each summer or autumn a cycling event in his memory. The entrance fees go to a fund established by the Casartelli family in aid of professional cyclists injured in falls. You can find more information here: https://www.cyclosportive-la-casartelli.fr/english/
Horse riding
- Pôle Équestre de Léran: on the shores of Lake Montbel, the equestrian centre offers numerous activities for all riders, young and old.
https://www.poleequestredeleran.com/
- EquiTerre - Another excellent horse-riding centre just on the other side of the village of Engraviès is only 8km away from La Maison de Bosc. It is a family run business and it is possible to have horse-riding lessons, to go on treks varying in length from two hours to several days duration; you can also watch horse-ball competitions, and much, more.
Snowshoeing in Les Monts d'Olmes ski resort
Les Monts d'Olmes ski resort is a beautiful winter wonderland that provides an incredible experience of snowshoeing in the French Pyrenees. The resort has an array of trails that lead to stunning views, one of which is the snowshoe trail up to Lake Fagebelle.
The trail is approximately 5 kilometers long, with a moderate level of difficulty. It takes around 2 hours to complete the hike, and it's perfect for beginners and experienced snowshoers alike. The trail is well-marked, and the scenery is breathtaking. You'll pass through snowy forests, open meadows, and along mountain ridges, offering you a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
The highlight of the trail is, of course, the beautiful Lake Fagebelle, where you'll find picnic tables, and you can take a break, relax and enjoy the view. The lake is a peaceful and serene place, and the snow-capped mountains surrounding it make it a picturesque location.
The snowshoe trail is perfect for those looking for a winter adventure, and it's a great way to experience the beauty of the French Pyrenees.
When preparing for snowshoeing, dress in layers, wear waterproof boots, and bring warm gloves and a hat. It's also essential to bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to have a picnic by the lake.
Overall, snowshoeing at Les Monts d'Olmes ski resort is an unforgettable experience, and the trail up to Lake Fagebelle is an absolute must-do for anyone visiting the area. So, grab your snowshoes, embrace the winter, and enjoy the beautiful scenery that awaits you!
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