ITINERARY

Day 1 / Arrival and Welcome

We kick off our adventure with stunning vistas at lunch in Castillon-en-Couserans, immersing ourselves in the local flavors and charm. Afterward, we embark on a walk around the serene Lac de Bethmale, soaking in the tranquil ambiance and scenic vistas.

That evening, we will settle into our first home base in Clermont. Our Chambre d’hôte is run by a charming couple who create an inviting and homely atmosphere and serve only the most local food and wine. After settling in, we will prepare our packs and review the next day’s bike before enjoying dinner with the group. We will rise early the next morning and begin our first bike.

Pickup Time / 11 AM
Pickup Location / Foix Gare
Included / Lunch, dinner
Lodging / Chambre d’hôte

Day 2 / The Voie Verte

Gear up for a biking excursion along the Voie Verte, a converted railway line, from Foix to Castelnau-Durban. Pedal at your own pace through lush landscapes and quaint villages, savoring the freedom of the open road. Utilizing e-bikes specially designed for cruising trails means you’ll have the power at your fingertips to adjust your assistance during today’s 23-kilometer ride.

Profile of the Route / DISTANCE 26 km/16.16 mi | ASCENT 230 m/755 ft | DESCENT 221 m/725 ft | MAX ELEVATION 1,030 m/3,380 ft | TIME 4 hours
Included / Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Lodging / Chambre d’hôte

Day 3 / Hiking the Couseran Valley

Today, we lace up our hiking boots to explore the Couserans. Hike approximately 13 km along scenic trails, some of which have existed since the Bronze Age, surrounded by verdant forests and rolling hills, as we uncover the natural beauty and hidden gems of the region.

Profile of the Hike / DISTANCE 11 km/6.8 mi | ASCENT 390m/1,279ft DESCENT 380m/1,247ft MAX ELEVATION 558m/1,831ft | TIME 3 hours
Included / Lodging, breakfast, dinner
Lodging / Chambre d’hôte

Day 4 / Forests, Valleys, and History

Today we transition to our new lodging to experience a different area of the Pyrenees. Embark on a memorable hike along a mountain ridge with stunning views of the valley and the Pyrenees mountain range. This hike has some gentle undulation as we go through beautiful, forested terrain to the Maquis memorial to visit this vital center of WWII and resistance history in this area. Later, we delve further into the past with a visit to Puivert Château, marveling at the medieval structure and panoramic views.

Profile of the Hike / DISTANCE 10 km/6 mi | ASCENT 230 m/755 ft | DESCENT 221m/725 ft | MAX ELEVATION 1,030 m/3,380 ft | TIME 3.25 hours
Included / Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner
Lodging / Chambre d’hôte

Day 5 / Biking to the Medieval Market of Mirepoix

Our biking adventure continues as we pedal along a different section of the Voie Verte, from Chalabre to Mirepoix. Feel the gentle breeze on your face as you cycle through idyllic countryside scenery, dotted with charming villages and scenic vistas. Upon arrival in Mirepoix, take in the oldest medieval half-wood house in France. Truly unique with a timeless appeal, Mirepoix feels like it has been frozen in time, encapsulating the medieval world while offering modern amenities and an array of shops, cafes, a brasserie, and artist shops. You will choose your own lunch in Mirepoix, as there are various delicious options.

Profile of the Bike / DISTANCE 26 km/16.16 mi | ASCENT 230 m/755 ft | DESCENT 221 m/725 ft | MAX ELEVATION 1,030 m/3,380 ft | TIME 4 hours
Included / Breakfast, dinner
Lodging / Chambre d’hôte

Day 6 / Comus Ridge Hike

On this last hiking day, we’ve specially chosen a route for its delightful exploration of the scenic beauty and tranquility of the French Pyrenees. The trail meanders through fragrant pine forests, where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy, creating a serene atmosphere. As you ascend, panoramic views of the surrounding peaks unfold, rewarding adventurers with breathtaking vistas of the Pyrenean landscape, including the impressive Montsegur Castle. We descend through verdant meadows within arm's length of grazing animals to complete our hike. Before finishing the day, we will stop in the alpine village of Comus to have some of the most delicious ice cream sundaes in the area – the perfect end to our last hike.

Day 7 / Transition Day

As our unforgettable journey draws to a close, we bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes and warm hospitality of the French countryside. You are returned to Foix with cherished memories and a renewed sense of adventure, knowing that new horizons await.

Included / Breakfast
Drop-off time / 12 PM
Drop-off location / Foix Gare

This itinerary is given for your information and may be changed at the discretion of the leaders depending on the weather conditions, physical ability of clients and the trail 'options' we decide together.