During your stay at La Marmotte campsite, take a trip back in time by visiting some historical highlights close to your holiday destination.
Some practical information before you go:
Make sure you have good shoes, as the paths we'll be taking will not always be smooth.
- Bring plenty of water, which will be much appreciated in hot weather.
- As always, to protect yourself from the heat and the sun, take your caps, hats and sun cream, as we're going to be spending some time in the fresh air and in nature.
First stop: Château de Foix
Everyone is getting off, and we have arrived for our first excursion to the Foix castleOur journey through time begins with the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.
Built in the 11th century, this castle was strategically placed on a high rock overlooking the town of Foix. Built by the Counts of Foix, it has also witnessed many battles. During the Renaissance, it was used as a prison. Today, you can admire both the interior and exterior to immerse yourself in life at that time. There is a museum inside, as well as displays in the castle's various rooms.
From the ramparts, admire this magnificent panoramic view on the mountains. The towers are also period, although they have been renovated over the years.
During the summer entertainment The castle's history, the people who lived there, the trades of the time... And with a bit of luck, you'll be able to help set the real catapult of yesteryear in motion!
Thanks to shows immersive experience, you can meet blacksmiths, stonemasons and other craftsmen, ready to explain their work to you, and offer you a unique experience.
A few practical points:
- 8€ for children
- 9 for students
- 11.50 for adults
Visits are possible between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., Monday to Saturday.
Next stop: a lunch break in the heart of the countryside
Just before your next excursion, take time out to recharge your batteries. There are plenty of picnic areas along the way. So lay out your tablecloth and enjoy your lunch, whether it's sandwiches, salads, fruit, bread, juice... Don't hesitate to add local products such as Bethmale or Moulis cheese, or a local wine or juice.
Last stop, everyone goes down to the Grotte de Niaux
On this sunny afternoon, we head for the Grotte de Niaux. This walk takes us back to the Prehistory. It will take you half an hour to get there by car from the Château de Foix.
The Niaux cave is located in the Pyrenees, near the village of Niaux, and is a real local wonder. It dates back some 14,000 years.
This archaeological treasure trove extends over almost 2 kilometres of underground galleries, although only a small part is open to the public for preservation reasons. During your visit, you'll see the highlight of the Niaux cave: the Salle du Grand Plafond. This large, dark "room" is decorated with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
How to make the difference ? Well, just remember that stalagTites fall, and stalagMites rise!
And if you open your eyes wide, you'll see what this place is famous for: the cave paintings on the walls.
You can appreciate all the beauty, realism and quality. Bison, horses, goats, animals of all kinds blend together in a colourful symphony. The materials used for the drawings are none other than natural elements, the same as those found in nature today: charcoal and ochre. You can take a guided tour of the cave, which lasts an hour and a half. Check opening times on this website: https://www.sites-touristiques-ariege.fr/grotte-de-niaux/
Prices are €11 for children, €12 for students and €15 for adults. Don't forget to book in advance to make sure there's room for you on the day. After this beautiful day, it's time to retrace your steps and head back to your mobile home or pitch at camping la Marmotte!
