Settings and culture

Settings

Our hotel is situated in the “Couserans”, part of the department of the Ariege, which belongs the region “Midi-Pyrénées”. We are located in the middle of the Pyrenees, just 5 kilometers from the Spanish border. The larger cities nearby are Saint-Girons and Foix. The nearest major real town is Toulouse.
The local authorities realize that the couserans is touristic not only very interesting for people who love mountains, but also for people who are interested in culture. On the one hand, the local tourist offices are very active in facilitating the active tourist. They pay much attention to maintaining and expanding the many hiking trails. In Aulus les Bains, a stone’s throw from our hotel, you will find a permanent “trail running” station, and in the summer months the downhill mtb trails in Guzet-neige are open for everybody. On the other hand finds the government it very important that the many cultural treasures are being preserved and are accessible to the public.

Mont Valier, Pyrenees, Auberge les myrtilles

History & Culture

We are located in an area with a turbulent past. Particularly from the Cathar era (12th and 13th century) we can still admire many cultural treasures. Our Region “Midi-Pyrénées” is home to some of the most extraordinary historical monuments in France. Cathar castle “Montsegur” and the brilliant cité of Carcassonne are impressive cultural sites in France, and not very far from us. Even closer to home you will find Saint-Lizier, named one of the most beautiful villages of France, known primarily because it is a former bishop’s seat. The magnificent cathedrals and buildings there are the memories. Each year in the first two weeks of August a famous festival dedicated to classical music.

culture in the Pyrenees

Caves and other attractions

We are located in an area which is dotted with famous and less famous caves. The most famous of all are the caves of Niaux. In these caves you can admire the original prehistoric wall paintings, where you often see replicas of wall paintings in a lot of other caves. The subterranean river of Labouiche is also worth a visit. You explore this cave partly on foot and partly by boat.
The famous mini-state of Andorra, the picturesque Mirepoix, or a day at Lourdes are fun and interesting day trips. Visit one of the many Romanesque churches from the 11th century, which can be found everywhere here. or visit the clog maker Bethmale, making it the characteristic “point lump” to a fine art.

prehistoric caves de niaux, auberge les myrtilles

In short, an environment that is not only suitable for outdoor sports, but also in terms of culture has a lot to offer ..