Local Activities
Local Activities
Ercé
Ercé (Ariège): a nature village in the Couserans Located on the bed of an ancient lake, Ercé was formerly known as “Terro Sancto” (Holy Land) due to its many sanctuaries. Today, this large mountain village and its hamlets form a true green haven, crossed by the clear waters of the Garbet River. Surface area 4,075 ha Highlights Unspoiled nature • mountain hamlets • stone terraces • hiking Population (milestones) 1806: 3,687 1851: 3,232 1901: 2,723 1921: 1,703 1946: 1,043 1999: 532 2006: 537 2014: 533 Historical background Once part of the Viscounty of Couserans, the Saint-Pierre Chapel is believed to be one of the two original chapels of the region. In 1260, a charter granted by the Count of Couserans stated that inhabitants could not be dispossessed of their livestock or property without payment or consent. The Viscounty of Couserans was dismantled in 1459, and its lordships were auctioned in 1491. Massat, Ercé and Oust were acquired by Arnaud Roger de Comminges. Between 1800 and 1900, Ercé had nearly 3,000 inhabitants. This high population density caused extreme poverty and food shortages. Mountain slopes were transformed into stone terraces to allow farming (cereals, potatoes, fruit trees). Livestock farming was intensive, and each farmer owned one or several stone barns to store enough hay for winter. Between 1850 and 1950, strong population growth and lack of land pushed some inhabitants to seek other activities such as bear training and peddling. The first bear trainers emigrated to the USA, and their success led to a wave of emigration. Even today, several restaurants in New York are said to be run by people from Ercé. Life in the mountains remains demanding today. Lowland areas accessible to machinery are still used for farming, while old terraces are gradually reclaimed by the forest. Fortunately, the beauty and tranquility of the area attract tourism, and some people are returning to live here. Do not miss in Ercé Traditional hamlets and stone barns, including bird-step barns (Cominac area). Hiking and walking trails to mountain plateaus and villages. Valley landscapes, stone terraces and panoramic viewpoints. Featured in the press Published on 09/08/2019 Selected by La Dépêche du Midi, Ercé was voted the most beautiful village in Ariège in the NATURE category. Heritage Former 18th-century castle, now Saint-Philippe Hospice… Church of the Assumption (16th–17th c., listed monument)… Saint-Pierre Chapel (11th c., listed monument)… Other landmarks: Catalan forge, water mill, Bear Trainer Museum…
Your local shopping
Your local shopping Our holiday home offers comfort, peace and fresh air. What's left is good food… and good wine. Here are a few tips: - For everyday essentials, there is a small grocery shop in Ercé where you can buy basic food items, household products and a nice selection of local cheeses (our shopkeeper will be happy to advise you). You will also find tobacco, books about the region, newspapers, postcards and a few local souvenirs. The cherry on top: after shopping, you can sit on the terrace and have a drink. We count on you to support this last little business in our lovely village. - You will find a local bakery (excellent bread and the best "croustades" in the area) as well as a very good butcher in Oust (6 km from the house). - For other small shops, you will need to go to Seix (8 km). Watch the video - Every Saturday morning: the Saint-Girons market (20 km). It takes place by the river under the plane trees. You'll discover farm products and local crafts from the surrounding mountains — and a wonderfully mixed crowd: Ariège mountain people in dark jackets and waistcoats, hippies with their dogs and flamboyant outfits, and tourists from all over the world. - For household supplies and supermarket shopping: on the outskirts of Saint-Girons you will find several large supermarkets. And for food lovers and wine enthusiasts Before heading home, we recommend a visit to the Victor Hugo Market in Toulouse: it's the heart of regional gastronomy. It's right in the city centre and everyone knows it. You can park on the car park above the market. Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 06:00 to 13:30. Around the market, we especially recommend 4 great spots (open all day): - At Xavier: one of the best cheesemongers in France — a true "cheese heaven". Just opposite the market: 6 Place Victor-Hugo. - Maison Pillon: outstanding French pastries. One shop is at 2 Rue d'Austerlitz (100 m from Xavier). - Nicolas: excellent wine selection and great bottles — right next to Xavier. - The market restaurants: several counters and tables where you can taste fresh produce and South-West specialties on site.
Restaurants
Le Panier du Garbet * * Location: Ercé — 2 km from the house Main street, next to the garage. Tel: +33 5 61 04 61 18 Small terrace with a few tables in front of the village grocery store. You can do your shopping here, but also enjoy a drink, an aperitif or breakfast with coffee and croissants. This is the last shop in the village. Please support it by shopping or stopping for a drink. Restaurant de la Poste * Location: Oust — 5 km from Ercé Main street. Tel: +33 5 61 66 86 33 Meals are served indoors in a rustic dining room, or in summer on the terrace overlooking the swimming pool. Well known locally. Menus range from €25 to €35. Le Relais du Grenier à Jambons * * * Location: Rimont 36 km / 35 min from Ercé Tel: +33 9 72 97 87 16 Excellent homemade charcuterie and pork-based cuisine inspired by traditional recipes. Delicious dishes and desserts, warm welcome and excellent value for money. La Goulue * * Open evenings only — reservation recommended Aulus-les-Bains, 9 km / 11 min from Ercé Tel: +33 5 61 66 53 01 Opposite the thermal baths, in an elegant Belle Époque setting. Quiet atmosphere, refined traditional cuisine with a creative touch. Very good value for money. Chez O'drey * Antichan — 09190 Lorp-Sentaraille Tel: +33 9 82 41 99 33 Restaurant at Saint-Girons airfield, with views of the runway and mountains. Large summer terrace. Specialises in fresh fish and seafood. Auberge des 2 Rivières * At the Taule bridge, 11 km from Ercé (3–4 km past Seix). Tel: +33 5 61 66 83 57 Rustic setting with good regional cuisine at fair prices. Warm welcome. Recommended: trout. Auberge d'Antan * * * Watch Facebook video Saint-Girons (20 km from Ercé), Avenue de la Résistance. Tel: +33 5 61 66 66 64 Rustic charm with high-quality service. Cuisine combining wood-fire tradition and refined dishes. Specialties: soup terrine, pan-fried foie gras, spit-roasted suckling pig, flambéed millas. Menu €29.90 — Children €12 — Evening only. Le Carré de l'Ange * * * Saint-Lizier (22 km from Ercé), Bishop’s Palace Tel: +33 5 61 65 65 65 One of the most beautiful villages in France. Gourmet restaurant combining contemporary art and historic vaulted rooms. Summer terrace with panoramic views. Excellent value for gourmet cuisine. La Petite Auberge de Niaux * * Niaux (50 km from Ercé), near Tarascon-sur-Ariège Tel: +33 5 61 05 79 79 Generous homemade cuisine, full of flavour. Budget €15–30. Ideal after visiting the prehistoric caves. Auberge de Pierre Bayle * * Carla Bayle (62 km from Ercé), north of Mas d’Azil cave Tel: +33 5 61 60 63 95 Beautiful panoramic terrace (reservation recommended). Creative cuisine, budget around €40. Charming artistic village with Pyrenees views. For more good restaurants, feel free to share your own recommendations with us.
Walks in the surrounding area
Europeans looking for “green holidays” come to Ariège in summer to enjoy hiking in a preserved natural environment. This is the busiest time of the year, yet it never feels overcrowded. For many visitors, September and October are the best months: mild temperatures, sunshine, and trails almost to yourself. In winter, ski resorts are lively and snowshoes can be rented to explore the mountains. May and early June are perfect to admire wildflowers and blooming orchids. Walks starting from the house Around the house, there is no shortage of walks. Many small paths of varying difficulty allow everyone to choose according to their wishes and abilities. Our house is located in a meadow at the edge of a large oak forest. Higher up, you will reach mountain pastures with lower vegetation, blueberries and rhododendrons. Three suggested walks – Le Corral (2–3 hours) – Mont Béas (7–8 hours) – Tuc de la Coume (5–6 hours) Walks within 15 km A preserved natural area, mountain lakes, waterfalls, family walks, day hikes and even trips into Spain await you in the Haut-Couserans. For the most complete information and advice, visit the Aulus-les-Bains Tourist Office website. Information & safety Trail marking reminder: please follow local signs and waymarking. Rules to respect – Always greet people you meet on the trail. – Close gates carefully and beware of electric fences. – Wear appropriate walking shoes. – Take all your litter back with you. – Avoid bringing dogs, even on a leash. – Never light fires. – Leave flowers where they grow — photos last longer. Precautions – In case of a viper bite, do not apply a tourniquet and go calmly to the nearest pharmacy. – Carry a mobile phone to call emergency services (112). – Weather can change quickly in the mountains; descend immediately if storms threaten.
Photos from our guests
Guest photos at our cottage Click ⇒ HERE to watch the video highlights from the Bart family’s stay in our cottage.
Horse Riding
Horse riding in Ariège: rides, trekking & local equestrian centres If you travel with your own horses, we are happy to welcome them in the meadow, and riders in the house. Around the cottage, you will find many hiking paths and beautiful landscapes. Mérens, a small village in the high valleys of Ariège, gave its name to an old local breed of black horses, known for their gentle nature, endurance and sure-footedness. Coumariau Equestrian Centre In OUST, about 15 minutes by car from the cottage Loréna Sala, BEES Riding school for all ages and all levels Tel: +33 (0)5 61 96 57 71 or +33 (0)5 61 66 88 54 Coming from Ercé, in Oust, take the small road on the left next to the town hall and follow it for 4 to 5 km until you reach a plateau with a beautiful view. Quality teaching for all levels. An ideal place to learn, for children and adults. Horse and pony rides are also available. Ferme du Mont Béas In ERCÉ, about 10 minutes by car from the cottage Open from 1 April to 31 October Tel: (+33) 05 61 66 80 92 For experienced riders and unforgettable mountain rides http://www.ariege.com/ferme-du-mont-beas/equestre/info.html
Ski
Ski in Ariège: Guzet-Neige ski resort (Pyrenees) Guzet-Neige ski resort (Ariège) From the cottage, you can already see Guzet-Neige on the mountain opposite. It is one of the most popular winter resorts in Ariège (Pyrenees), offering 42 km of slopes, 14 lifts and 33 runs for all levels – spread across three different sectors. Prat Mataou is perfect for families and beginners: gentle slopes for first turns, ski rental, ESF (ski school), restaurants and childcare. The area runs through a beautiful fir forest up to the Col de la Trappe. Two connecting runs link Prat Mataou to the other sectors. In Combe de Guzet, you will also find rental shops, ski school and places to eat. Expect wide slopes served by two chairlifts, plus a snowpark (rails, slides) and a big-air jump. The Freychet sector sits higher in the alpine part of the resort. A chairlift takes you quickly above 2,000 m – with impressive descents and a mountain-top restaurant with panoramic views over the Pyrenees. Opening: the resort usually opens from mid-December (depending on snow conditions). During school holidays and weekends, arriving early is recommended. Ski lifts at Guzet-Neige 1 – Picou drag lift 2 – Muscadet chairlift 3 – Baby Picou drag lift 4 – Col d’Escots chairlift 5 – Freychet chairlift 6 – Roc Blanc drag lift 7 – Drag lift 8 – Col de la Trappe drag lift 9 – Souleillous drag lift 10 – Souleillous 2 drag lift 11 – Vallon Blanc chairlift 12 – Baby Prat drag lift 13 – Baby Prat 2 drag lift 14 – Écureuil chairlift Official info (Haut-Couserans)
Fishing in Ariège
Fishing in Ariège: trout, the Garbet river and high-altitude lakes Right next to the house For children, we have a small pond with trout next to the house. Unfortunately, fishing is increasingly regulated. We would no longer be allowed to fish our own trout in our own pond without a fishing licence. And also: From the house you can see the Garbet river flowing through the valley just below. It is about a 20-minute walk, and even less for some small mountain streams coming down from the slopes. Nearby You will be tempted by the wild brown trout (Fario), dark with red spots, known for its fighting spirit — and you can follow the rivers higher and higher up to the many mountain lakes. Fishing season in category 1 rivers runs from mid-March to mid-September. Minimum catch size: 20 cm for brown trout, rainbow trout, char or brook trout; 23 cm for Arctic char; and 35 cm for lake trout (cristivomer). - Children under 12 can fish using all methods (casting, spoon, live bait...) with the “discovery” licence at 2 euros in category 1 and 2 waters. - Women can fish using all methods (casting, spoon, live bait...) with the “discovery” licence at 30 euros in category 1 and 2 waters. - A day licence is available, valid from 1 June to 31 December. It must be purchased in the department where you fish, at 10 euros. There is no reciprocity with departments affiliated with the Club Halieutique and EHGO. No-kill areas All fishing methods allowed, barbless hooks only - Garbet river at La Comanie (Ercé): upstream limit: bottom of Cla Mourac beach; downstream limit: top of Straluze beach. Length: 600m. - Garbet river at Agnesserre (former reserve): upstream limit: “l’avalanche”; downstream limit: bridge at the entrance of the Agnesserre plateau. Length: 700m. - Alate lake (1h45 walk from the Coumebière plateau) Youth course under 18 (minor licence required) Located in Aulus-les-Bains between the equestrian centre bridge and the bridge on the road to Col de Latrappe. Information - Départemental Federation A.A.P.P. Ariège: tel 05 61 65 33 07 or answering machine: 05 61 02 71 14 - Magazine and fishing licence available in Aulus-les-Bains (Tabac/Presse): tel 05 61 96 04 36; in Seix at “Le Picou” sports shop: tel 05 61 66 89 61 Also available online: https://www.cartedepeche.fr Another well-documented website about fishing in Ariège: https://www.peche-ariege.com/ IN PICTURES: FISHING
Paragliding in Ariège
Paragliding in Ariège: flights from Port de Lers and Guzet All year round, paragliding schools offer flights from Port de Lers or Guzet (about 15 km from us). Take-offs are from viewpoints overlooking wide valleys. Depending on weather conditions, you may fly for several hours using thermals and updrafts, with outstanding views over the Pyrenees and Ariège. Several options are available: first-time flights, tandem flights with an instructor, and 3 to 6-day courses to discover (or improve) your skills in an exceptional mountain setting. Paragliding schools Kymaya Rue du Général de Gaulle 09400 Surba Tel: 06 25 79 16 51 Email: contact@kymaya.com https://www.kymaya.com/ Gypaètes BP 60005 09000 Foix Tel: 06 78 55 39 26 Email: gypaetes@wanadoo.fr https://www.parapente-pyrenees-parapente-ariege.fr/parapente_ariege_parapente_pyrenees/ Parapente Family Place de la Poste 09200 Moulis Tel: 06 88 24 24 08 Email: parapentefamily@yahoo.fr https://parapentefamily.com/ Ariège Parapente One of their take-off sites is at Port de Lers, next to the lake of the same name. Port de Lers is about 15 km from us: a real natural gem, with rich wildlife and flora, and breathtaking landscapes. Many flight options and courses are available depending on your level. Le Fort – 09000 Foix Tel: 06 02 12 21 79 Email: contact@ariegeparapente.fr https://www.ariegeparapente.fr/
Caves in Ariège
Caves in Ariège: Niaux, Mas d’Azil, Labouiche and Lombrives For experienced cavers, there are thousands of caves to discover in Ariège. For the less experienced, Horizon Vertical offers guided underground adventures for all levels. And for those who prefer an easy visit, here are the main caves already set up for the public: The Niaux Cave One of the most beautiful caves in the region, about 50 km from our cottages. Famous for its bison engravings. Booking is highly recommended as places are limited. Tel: 05 61 05 88 37 Please note: the cave is not equipped or lit. The route (about 2.5 km total) is uneven and timed, which makes the visit unsuitable for disabled visitors and very young children. The guided tour lasts approximately 1h45. Nearby: a museum, forges, a spinning mill, and for lunch a great meal at “La petite Auberge de Niaux” (Tel: 05 61 05 09 09). https://english.pyrenees-ariegeoises.com/ The Mas d'Azil Cave Around 47 km from the house, easy to visit by car (perfect on the way to Mirepoix or Carcassonne). A spectacular natural tunnel crossed by a road along the Arize river. It sheltered animals (rhinos, bears, mammoths…) and humans from prehistory to more recent times. https://www.sites-touristiques-ariege.fr/en/grotte-du-mas-dazil-2/ The Labouiche Cave & Underground River About 60 km from our cottages. Labouiche is known as the longest navigable underground river in Europe. Reservation recommended: 05 61 65 04 11. Guided tour about 60 m underground, comfortably seated in a boat (12 people), which makes it especially great for families. Several circuits (1h to 3h) let you explore galleries, rooms, concretions, gours and the Salette waterfall, following the underground river for almost 1.5 km. https://www.ariegepyrenees.com/en/decouvrir/incontournables/grottes-prehistoire/la-riviere-souterraine-de-labouiche/ The Lombrives Cave One of the largest and most fascinating caves in Europe, located in Ussat near Tarascon-sur-Ariège. Huge galleries, giant stalactites and stalagmites, and a beautifully colored underground lake. Access via a path through Mediterranean vegetation (on foot) or by a small tourist train (€2/person on site). A guide welcomes you at the entrance for an impressive walk into the depths of the earth. https://www.ariegepyrenees.com/en/decouvrir/incontournables/grottes-prehistoire/la-grotte-de-lombrives/
Aviation & Microlight in Ariège
Aviation & Microlight (ULM) in Ariège: Saint-Girons airfield, scenic flights and mountain flying Staying in Ariège means being surrounded by some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the Pyrenees. If you love aviation, microlighting (ULM) or panoramic flights, you are in the right place: Spain is only a few minutes away by air, and within a 100 km radius there are many airfields to discover. Nearest airfield: Saint-Girons (LFGH) The closest airfield is Saint-Girons (LFGH). You will usually find room in a hangar, and we can gladly pick you up there. If you prefer, we can also help you organize local logistics during your stay. For experienced mountain pilots: our private grass runway For pilots used to short mountain runways, we built a small grass strip above our cottages: 300 meters, on a slope, at about 3,000 ft. Coordinates: N 42.51.06 – E 1.17.47. The uphill slope increases on the last 150 meters. Important: animals often graze on the runway. If you are not fully confident, do not land. Use Saint-Girons (LFGH) and we will pick you up. For non-pilots: scenic flights & first-time experiences You can enjoy the Pyrenees from the air even if you are not a pilot: book a local flight with a pilot, try an introductory ULM flight, or even take flying lessons. It’s a unique way to discover the valleys, peaks and ridgelines during your holiday. Videos & inspiration A short ULM flight over the Pyrenees (YouTube) Microlighting in the Pyrenees (YouTube) La Poujada at Col de Salau (YouTube) Saint-Girons Airclub For anyone interested in air sports, Saint-Girons is ideal: instructors are familiar with mountain flying, and prices are reasonable. For more information, you can contact the airclub: 05.61.66.11.00 — ask for Antony or Mr Brua. A short film by René Caissy (during a stay at La Souleilo)
Donkey walks
Donkey walks in Ariège: family hiking in the Pyrenees Where to enjoy a donkey walk near our gîtes? Panoram'ânes Hanno & Marie-Christine Terörde-Jacquerie La Bourdasse, 09320 Aleu Tel: 05 61 04 43 19 http://www.ariege.com/panoramane About 30 minutes by car from the gîte. A truly contagious passion. How can you resist this type of hike, suitable for the whole family, at a relaxed pace on long mid-mountain trails—or more sporty for hikers tired of carrying heavy backpacks? Several day routes are available: waymarked tracks, very old paths linking small villages, or forest trails opening onto impressive panoramas. Gîte d’étape d’Aunac 09140 Seix – Tel: 05 61 66 82 15 http://www.pyrenees-anes.com In the heart of the Ariège mountains, routes adapted to your wishes: 4 to 5 hours of walking at the donkeys’ pace, to discover a different way of hiking and enjoy the authenticity of our mountains. Each evening, a warm welcome around a good table to share local traditions and passion. These itineraries follow ridge paths, often overlooking the valley, and offer spectacular views of Mont Vallier and the Pyrenees range. Ballad'ânes Salbis, 09320 Le Port http://www.ariege.com/baladane/info.html
Cycling in Ariège
Cycling in Ariège: road routes, mountain passes and MTB around Ercé " /> With valleys, forests and Pyrenean passes, Ariège is a fantastic destination for road cycling and mountain biking (MTB), with spectacular views and many routes starting near our gîtes. The Tour de France in Ariège The Tour de France goes through our area almost every year. This year it will pass through Ercé on 14 July. The stage starts from Peyresourde and finishes at the Plateau de Bielle. Not surprisingly! Roads are beautiful, gradients are steep and the passes are challenging. Ariège loves cycling. Many cycling events prove it: The Tour de France used to pass here every year. Unfortunately, Ariège’s limited budgets can be a barrier today. https://www.letour.fr/fr Cycling events L’Ariégeoise: a cycling event that brings together more than 4,600 riders every year. 4 different routes La Ronde de l’Izard over 4 days, held each year in Occitanie Where to cycle in Ariège (useful links) Where to cycle in Ariège? The list of must-ride spots is endless! Here are a few helpful links: Cycling routes (Ariège Pyrénées) Route itinerary N12 Komoot – Ariège itineraries ariege.fr – “Ariège loves cycling” Other road cycling routes Route A: 67 km *** Route B: 101 km **** " /> Rimont: a bastide founded in 1273, burned by German troops in August 1944. Combelongue Abbey. Col de Rille: memorial stele dedicated to resistance fighters and guerrilleros who united to fight the Nazi occupiers. Col de la Crouzette: viewpoint. Biert: village famous for the “9-pin skittles” game. Ercé, Aulus, Cominac: the land of the famous “bear trainers”. Cominac: traditional barns with “bird-step” roofs. Riverenert: renovation and enhancement of springs and fountains. " /> " /> MTB in Ariège MTB routes suggested by the Seix Tourist Office: La vallée de Laspieng Le plateau d’Ajéou Le Sentier du Cos Le Grand Huit La grande boucle Balade historique Boucle du Bouirex Serre de Rapheu Le Tour de l’Alet La boucle des Lannes There are so many tracks and trails that it’s impossible to describe them all here. One thing they all share: wherever you go, every bend reveals a new view, and you’ll find beautiful, peaceful spots everywhere. Beginners can choose easier routes in the plains or on plateaus, while experienced riders will enjoy more demanding options. Superb agricultural tracks can be found all around for MTB. Bike rental / service (Saint-Girons) If you don’t have your own bikes, you can find them here: MAXI SPORTS — 16 Rue Yvette Garrabe, 09200 Saint-Girons — Tel: 05 61 96 49 35 CYCLE & VOUS — 28 Rue Villefranche, 09200 Saint-Girons — Tel: 05 61 01 54 72 In pictures " /> " /> " />
Canoeing & Canyoning
CANOEING & CANYONING Whitewater activities with Haut Couserans Kayak Club (SOUEIX) Camping LA CLAIRE 09140 SOUEIX Phone: 05 61 66 62 76 campinglaclaire@orange.fr www.labasenautiqueducouserans.com Our many rivers and rapids provide enough water for whitewater activities almost all year round, especially in spring during snowmelt. The Soueix kayak club is an ideal starting point for anyone who loves the river and wants to enjoy a fun experience on the water. You don’t need to be a top athlete: basic swimming skills and no fear of water are enough. Children from age 7 and the whole family can take part. All outings are supervised by qualified instructors. Opening: April to October Meeting point and departure The kayak club is located at Camping La Claire in Soueix. Changing rooms and a picnic area are available. Equipment All necessary equipment is provided (wetsuit, buoyancy aid, helmet). Please bring swimwear and closed shoes that can get wet (e.g., old trainers). Spring (April to June): rafting, hydrospeed, inflatable canoes (two-seater “hotdog” or one-seater “air-boat/canoraft”). Summer (July to September/October): open hard-shell kayaks (suitable for beginners in whitewater). Route Depending on the Salat river level: between the Taule bridge and Kercabanac (7 to 15 km). The route is usually done in half a day. If you prefer not to paddle (or to extend the day), swimming and relaxing are possible: deep pools and small pebble/sandy spots invite you to take a break. Note: the water is cold. Prices Spring: €25 / person / half-day (about 1h30 on the water) Summer: €15 / person / half-day (about 1h30 on the water) Group rates from 15 participants, tailor-made programme on request. Prices include equipment rental (wetsuit, buoyancy aid, helmet), shuttles, insurance and guiding. Trips by reservation only Please book your outing—especially in high season—a few days in advance. Beginner and advanced courses available on request. Canyoning Mickael Ménager tested many mountain rivers in Haut Couserans. Detailed information is available in his book about the region’s canyons, and also online: http://canyon.hautcouserans.free.fr (or at the tourist offices in Seix or Aulus). For a guide, please contact Jean-Marc Honiat in St Girons (Horizon Vertical): https://www.horizonvertical.net Phone: 05 61 04 71 42 Mobile: 06 07 28 28 80 jeanmarc@horizonvertical.net IN PICTURES: CANOEING & CANYONING
Regional Natural Park
Our gîte is an official host house of the Regional Natural Park. - Enjoy eco-friendly and comfortable holidays: We care for the environment every day. You will find many simple eco-friendly actions in place for a “nature” stay that is both responsible and respectful of the planet. - Discover local products: Our small village grocery store offers a wide selection of local products (cheeses, cured meats, etc.). It is the last shop in our village. Choose to shop here rather than in a large supermarket in a nearby city. - Take time to meet local people: Here, people are used to a simple life, sometimes demanding in the mountains. Mutual support and hospitality are part of the local culture. People won’t understand if you pass by without a word: “Hello, who are you, where are you going, what are you doing?” This is not like the city: nobody is anonymous and we take time to talk together. - Enjoy the outdoors: You are in a peaceful place, in a protected natural environment. You may be on holiday: relax; there is no need to rush. Take your time and enjoy the simple things in nature. Here are a few suggestions from the Park about regional products. Some you can take with you and others you can leave. See what is accessible for you: https://consommer-parc-pyrenees-ariegeoises.fr/
Bears in Ariège
Did you know? Bear trainers helped build the reputation of Ariège… even across the Atlantic In the 19th century, the profession of bear trainer emerged in Ariège. Many local inhabitants began capturing bears, training them and presenting them in public shows. This unusual trade quickly crossed the Atlantic and contributed to the international reputation of the region. It is a little-known story: bear trainers from Ariège played a key role in making the department famous in the United States. This profession dates back to the Middle Ages and was originally practiced by nomadic communities. However, it truly developed in Europe during the 19th century, particularly in Ariège. The inhabitants of the Alet (Ustou) and Garbet (Aulus-Ercé-Oust) valleys, living in harsh conditions, saw this activity as a way to escape poverty. Some Ariégeois therefore began hunting bears, capturing and training them. The profession quickly became structured, and the village of Ercé even opened its own bear training school. Once trained, the bears, wearing muzzles, were presented in public squares and performed circus-style acts. These shows were first held in France before being exported to Spain and England. Bears crossing the Atlantic Some bear trainers traveled as far as Scotland, while others ventured overseas to Canada, the United States and even South America. Nearly 600 bear handlers from Ariège crossed the ocean. Their success was remarkable, and the bear became a true star. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, bears regularly appeared on the front pages of New York newspapers. For these adventurous Ariégeois, life in the United States offered far better opportunities than in France. Bear trainers making bears dance in the United States around 1900. After earning enough money, many bear trainers returned to Ariège to buy land. Others chose to remain in the United States, where they were recruited by circuses. However, in 1921, the profession suffered a major setback when public wild animal shows were banned. Many trainers then changed professions or returned permanently to France. What about today? After their complete disappearance, the reintroduction of Slovenian bears into the Pyrenees has been a real success. The animals found a suitable natural habitat and their population quickly increased. Today, they form a stable population, mainly concentrated in the areas they historically occupied. However, livestock farmers who practice summer grazing at high altitude no longer live permanently with their herds as they once did. Bears sometimes take advantage of this situation to prey on livestock. Tensions between farmers and environmentalists have increased significantly and continue to rise as the bear population grows. Irony of history Once a source of wealth for many families, bears are now seen as the ultimate predator, uniting sheep and cattle farmers and much of the local population against them.