Walking in the French Pyrenees

The French Pyrenees have been a top walking destination for over 15 years, forming a natural border between France and Spain. This comes as no surprise when you consider the quality of the scenery, the rich abundance of flora and fauna mixed with the calming warmth of the Mediterranean sun. Based in the serene french spa town of Ax-les-Thermes, this flexible trip will send you out on five exciting day walks, including the ridges and summits of the lower hills, as well as offering excursions into some higher peaks where you'll encounter glacial lakes and much more rugged terrain. You'll also be able to visit the Chapel of St Barthelemy, built on a rocky outcrop overlooking the valley of Ax.

During the 8 day trip, you'll stay in a welcoming family run hotel with large, en suite rooms that overlook the crystal waters of the Ariege River. Ax-les-Thermes is just a short walk away and offers a range of amenities including a newly renovated spa.

Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Start in Ax-les-Thermes.

Day 2
We start our week by exploring the stunning limestone 'plateau' of the Sept Case. Our aim is the Roc of Scaramus (1868m) which offers us outstanding views of the main Pyrenean ridge and down over the plain towards Carcassonne.

Day 3
We head high today with a drive to the Col of Puymorens (1930m) for some stunning views of the Andorran, French and Spanish mountains. Our walk will be on the high meadows with magnificent panoramic scenery. We may have the opportunity of spotting Mouflon (curly horned sheep), which roam in herds up here.

Day 4
The Chapel of St Barthelemy was built on its rocky outcrop overlooking the valley of Ax to protect the inhabitants of the village from a plague of cholera. It has since become an important place of pilgrimage and there is a beautiful circular walk from the village of Larnat. The walk has constant views of the Quie de Sinsat, a 1000m high rocky outcrop, where a pair of Lamaguires nest and are often seen.

Day 5
Today is a free day to do as you like.

Day 6
The Refuge de Rhule is situated on a shelf of rock overlooking the rugged granite peaks that make up the Andorran border. We drive into the heart of the mountains up the Aston valley and walk through the summer grazing pastures to the refuge for a welcome drink.

Day 7
Tarbesou (2364) and the Etang Noir. This pyramidal shaped peak, towers up to the East of Ax and commands outstanding views down towards the Mediterranean over the deeply gorged Cathar country. Starting at the Col du Pailheres (2001m) the peak is in easy reach. Once over the other side we continue along the ridge before dropping down to a series of picture postcard lakes fringed by a carpet of 'mountain rose' and sun baked boulders just begging to be laid on!

Day 8
End Ax-les-Thermes.

Is this trip for you?
The French Pyrenees holiday involves a series of five day guided walks from your hotel found in the delightful spa town of Ax-les-Thermes. The walks are varied and to some extent we can tailor each day to the needs and wishes of the group and the prevailing conditions. The proximity to the larger peaks means that while the walking is not too demanding, we are always close to impressive views. Of course, if on any day, you do not wish to go walking, you can relax at the hotel, or explore the small town of Ax-les-Thermes. During the week there will be one free day where no walk is provided and the leader will suggest optional activities. Please note that a good level of fitness is required for this trip. An average day's walking is the equivalent of a round trip to a Lake District summit.

Exodus run this trip at two different grades, so please make sure you book the correct week. More specifically, you should expect the following:

Grade B weeks: Average height gain: 400 - 800m. Hours walked: 4 - 6 on average. Distances: 6 - 12kms Most of walks are on good paths although there are some rocky sections. In general the maximum ascent in one go will be limited to 300m.

Grade C weeks: Average height gain: 600 - 1100m. Hours walked: 5 - 8 on average. Distances: 9 - 15kms. Some walking off paths and rocky sections. Plenty of up and down, very little flat!

This trip is based at: Hotel Le Terminus
The hotel is a 5 minute walk from the centre of Ax les Thermes, opposite the railway station., with en suite rooms overlooking the river.