Discover the picturesque wonders of the Ariège Regional Park with our ranking of the 16 most beautiful villages in Ariège!
In the heart of theOccitanie region, the department of Ariège is a land that has preserved its traditions and biodiversity. Magnificent, verdant landscapes stretch to the horizon. But Ariège is best known for its small villages on riversides and hilltops. Immerse yourself in the picturesque atmosphere of these villages steeped in history with our guide to the 16 most beautiful villages in Ariège!
1. Camon
Let’s not save the best for last! A commune in the Pyrenean foothills, Camon has the reputation of being one of the prettiest villages in France.
And with good reason: you’ll immediately fall under the spell of this fortified village. From the Porte de l’Horloge to the upper house, via the 16th-century abbey-castle, there are many historic sites waiting to be discovered.
But Camon is also known as « the village of a hundred roses ». We therefore recommend that you visit the village in May to see a hundred roses in bloom!
2. Mirepoix
Crossed by the Hers-Vif river, this village on the Aude border is one of the most beautiful in the Ariège region for its medieval heritage.
The bastide town of Mirepoix combines historic beauty with picturesque charm. With its 14th-century fortified gate and covered square, stroll along the half-timbered houses on wooden galleries. Take a break on one of the café terraces and visit the stores and traditional market.
3. Tourtouse
In the heart of the Ariege Pyrenees Regional Nature Park, the hamlet of Tourtouse is discreet.
Despite its small size, Tourtouse is worth a visit for its 12th-century bell tower. This fortification occupies the center of the village and is always a popular venue for summer celebrations.
As you get higher up, you’ll be able to see the high defensive walls and typical Ariège houses.
4. Saint-Martin-d’Oydes
From the scenic route, it’s easy to see why Saint-Martin-d’Oydes is so special. Indeed, this hamlet is the only circular village in Ariège!
Also known as « circulade », there are only seven circular villages in France. Take a stroll through the terraced houses and the church of Saint-Anastase, which form the heart of the village. For painting enthusiasts, Saint-Martin-d’Oydes was also home to Tony Blair.
5. Arrien-en-Bethmale
Situated on a hillside in the Bethmale valley, this commune is one of the most beautiful villages in Ariège and an ideal area for hikers!
The commune is home to a number of attractive mountain houses with slate roofs. They contrast harmoniously with the green valley.
As mentioned above, a multitude of hiking trails cross the village and the region. A nature break is a must!
6. Saint-Lizier
At the foot of the Couserans mountains, Saint-Lizier is an Ariège village steeped in history and heritage. Divided into two distinct parts, the commune boasts two Unesco World Heritage monuments.
During your visit, explore the lower part, with its old village and the magnificent cathedral of Saint-Lizier. Continue on to the upper part. You’ll discover the superb bishop’s palace, surrounded by extensive fortifications.
7. Aulus-les-Bains
Part vacation resort, part spa, the small village of Aulus-les-Bains in the Garbet valley is a verdant haven.
With its unspoilt natural setting, this destination is ideal for relaxation and outdoor recreation. To enhance your experience, visit the Aulus thermal baths. This center specializes in medical cures and wellness stays.
8. Mijanès
In the heart of the Donezan region, the resort of Mijanès is specially designed for winter sports enthusiasts.
With a wide range of snow activities, let yourself be tempted by downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoe itineraries, « snake gliss » tobogganing or even dog sledding. Mijanès will spice up your tour of the most beautiful villages in Ariège!
9. Sentein
On the Spanish border, Sentein is an authentic mountain village at 715 m altitude. Situated at the foot of the Maubermé peak, this picturesque village has a special charm, with its gray and ochre houses huddled together. But the village’s jewel is undoubtedly its famous 13th-century church, listed as a « Monument Historique ».
10. Montaillou
A vestige of Occitania’s Cathar past, this small village at an altitude of 1,300 m is a must-see for historians at heart.
Indeed, Montaillou’s history is largely linked to Catharism. Made famous in 1975 by Emmanuel Le Roy Ladurie and his book Montaillou, Village Occitan, it is home to the ruins of a medieval Cathar castle. Another not-to-be-missed celebration is the town’s festival, a veritable crossroads of Pyrenean languages, which celebrates the town’s Occitan heritage.
11. Carla-Bayle
Close to Toulouse and Carcassonne, Carla-Bayle is an ancient Huguenot citadel perched on a rocky outcrop.
With its magnificent views of the Pyrenees, this peaceful commune could be considered the Barbizon of Occitanie. In fact, this village has as many art galleries as it does inhabitants. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet new people and share your passion for art with other enthusiasts!
12. Seix
If you want to recharge your batteries in the heart of nature, take a trip to Seix! A small village in the Occitanie region, Seix lies at the heart of the Ariège department.
Labelled a « Station Verte » (Green Resort), this commune borderingSpain offers a plethora of monuments and natural sites to discover. We particularly recommend the Château de Seix and the Couseranse Valleys Heritage Interpretation Center.
13. Montgaillard
Finally, let’s end our tour of the most beautiful villages in the Ariège with the charming commune of Montgaillard. This village with its Catalan past lies on the border with Andorra.
The mix of cultures can be seen in the architecture of the houses, with their white walls and terracotta tile roofs. Another not-to-be-missed site is the Pyrène forges. Listed as a « Monument Historique », the museum and its collection of 5,000 tools retrace the history of the local crafts.
14. Lapège
Considered one of the most beautiful villages in Ariège, Lapège is a charming commune rebuilt after a terrible fire.
Here you can admire typical houses with plastered walls, slate roofs, corbelled bread ovens and sun-drenched wooden terraces.
15. Saleix
Located in the commune of Auzat, Saleix is one of the most beautiful villages in Ariège and the Garbet valley.
From its houses with flower-filled balconies, Saleix offers a beautiful view of the valley floor. Here, time seems to have stood still. Indeed, the town’s inhabitants have sought to recreate the atmosphere of the past. We recommend a stop in the main square to admire the many bear sculptures.
16. Ax-les-Thermes
Ax-les-Thermes is a spa resort, a summer village, an excursion center and a winter sports resort all rolled into one.
Stop off at the spa to recharge your batteries in one of the hottest springs in the Pyrenees. In terms of tourist sites, the Château de Villemur, the church of Saint-Vincent and the JOA Casino will enhance your stay in the commune.
Map of hotels and accommodation – Occitanie