Things to do in the area


Serres sur Arget is an area in the Val de Barguillere in the Ariège Department, consisting of the village of Serres sur Arget and several tiny hamlets, including Balança. This attractive pastured valley in the foothills of the Pyrenees is entered by pretty winding roads providing picturesque views of the Pyrenean peaks.

There is plenty to keep you busy during your stay: Sightseeing, markets, local cuisine, hiking, cycling, fishing, paragliding – there is something for everyone. Most of all though the peaceful, friendly nature of the region will truly help you to relax and forget the stresses of modern life!
HISTORY

The Castle of Foix, with its three magnificent fortified towers was the seat of the counts of Foix from 1012. Their connection with the cathar religion led to several (failed!) sieges. The history of the crusades against the cathars and the heritage of this religion can be experienced by walking the “Sentier Cathare”. The castle is well worth a visit, in particular for the spectacular views from the tower.

The painted caves of the Pyrennes containing evidence of prehistoric civilizations are found in the area. These include Grotte de Niaux, Grotte de la Vache, Grotte de Bédeilhac and le Mas d’Azil. The Grotte de Lombrives is the largest cave in Europe open to the public, with access by train features spectular stalagmites. The subterranean river cavern of Labouiche appears to have never been inhabited and high water levels in winter block access, but in the summer boat rides provide trips around the system.

The region features several medieval towns (or ‘bastides’) such as the famous Mirepoix, La Bastide de Serou, Le Mas d’Azil and Léran.

WALKING AND HIKING

 

 The Val de Barguillere is accessible easily from quiet country lanes and numerous footpaths. Worth particular mention is the 3 to 4 day hike around the valley, the “GR tour de pays de La Barguillère”. Of course you don’t have to do the whole walk – a one day hike up the Picou mountain (a noted peak which you can see from the valley floor) is very rewarding on a clear day.

Le Moulin de Balança is an ideal base from which to further explore the Pyrenean mountains to view the magnificent peaks surrounding the area.

For more information on walking in the Ariege click here.

SKIING

During the winter months, the mill is highly recommended as a ski chalet. The nearest cross country ski area of La Tour Lafont is a mere 15 minutes drive away and the wide variety of both downhill and cross country skiing available in the Pyrenees and Andorra is all within 40 minutes to 1.5 hours drive.

OTHER SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES

You name it you can do it around here!

Horse riding, cycling, fishing, mountain biking, canoeing, canyoning, rafting, climbing, paragliding and caving are all available locally.

The region is of course also famous for its thermal spas, which could provide some welcome relaxation after all that activity! The spa town of Ax-les-Thermes for example is just a 45 minute drive into the mountains.

We have wonderful clear skies at night and just by stepping outside the front door you’ll be able to see the milky way.
July - See the Pyrenean stages of the Tour de France.

There is also the opportunity to see the fireworks at the local Bastille Day celebrations.

 

EATING AND DRINKING

This region of France is famed for its cuisine. The town of Foix is full of restaurants, many serving local specialities such as cassoulet, duck and fois gras. The local café is also a good place to find a cold beer or pastis!
DAY TRIPS

The fortress city of Carcassonne is about a one hour drive to the east and the city of Toulouse is well worth a visit (the shopping is particularly good). For duty free shopping, you may wish to visit Andorra – also about a one hour drive.

If you’d like to see the sea, then a wonderful 1.5-2 hour drive across the mountains will take you to Narbonne or Perpignan and the Mediterranean Sea. If surfing is your thing, Biarritz and Bayonne can also be reached on the Atlantic coast.

We’d also highly recommend a trip to view the Cirque de Gavarnie, a magnificent natural rock circle, formed by glaciation which provides a wonderful sight. Believe us – the drive is well worth it!