Things to see and do near La Bourdette

Toulouse

Toulouse

Toulouse, the “ville rose” and capital of the Occitanie region, is a 45-minute drive away and, in addition to excellent restaurants and shopping opportunities, offers many sights, including the Gothic Saint Etienne Cathedral, the 16th century Capitol (Toulouse City Hall), the Pont Neuf and the Victor Hugo Market in the lovingly restored historic market hall. A visit to the aeroscopia aviation museum is also recommended.

Les Pyrénées

Les Pyrénées

In winter the Pyrenees attract people from all over the world with several ski resorts which can be reached after an approx. 1.5 h drive, including Ax-les-Thermes, Saint-Lary-Soulan, Luchon. In summer you can hike wonderfully in the mountains enjoying the views and refreshing temperatures.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is surely the most famous fortified medieval city in Europe. With its Cité Carcassone is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a variety of tours to explore and appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the city. It is situated in Languedoc-Rousillon and can be reached after a 1.5-hour drive.

Gathered Information

There is a very helpful information folder with details of recommended local shops, restaurants, markets, cultural, sporting and recreational activities plus many other suggestions on what to do and where to go in the vicinity. The folder also includes maps, brochures and contact details of local doctors, dentists, plumbers, electricians, pool maintenance etc.

Roaming the Pyrénées

There are fine walks in many directions. Marked pedestrian and mountain-biking trails lead to the upper heights of the Pyrénées where chamois, genets and even lynxes and brown bears are to be found.

Journey into the Past

There are prehistoric caves at Tarascon, and ancient cave drawings at Niaux. The fascinating caves of the Grotte du Mas d’Azil (10 kms) are “drive-through” but can also be visited on foot.

Nature's Playground

Trout streams abound in the Pyrénées, dropping down to rivers much favoured by kayakers and canoeists.

Sip and Savor

The nearest local vineyard encourages tastings and on-the-spot purchases. Visits should be arranged in advance – details are in the information folder.

Toulouse Treasures

Outings to Toulouse (45 minutes) are highly recommended to enjoy the many fine art galleries, museums, restaurants and excellent shopping. Its Old Town with its rose-pink façades (therefore known as the ‘Ville Rose’) is particularly attractive. Visits to the Aerospatiale Centre and to the Airbus factory, both near Toulouse, are much recommended.

Pedal Paradise

This is excellent bicycling country, reasonably flat, and with a dedicated trail from the House to the next door village of La Bastide de Besplas and into the surrounding countryside.

Thrilling Adventures Await

Near Carla-Bayle is a very popular children’s “treetops” adventure centre.

Exploring Enchanting Villages

There are a number of pretty villages in the surrounding area. An outstanding example is Carla-Bayle, standing on the top of a hill, with fine views of the Pyrénées, and boasting several interesting art galleries and shops.

Swing into Serenity

The 18-hole Golf de l’Ariège is near the pretty village of La Bastide-de-Sérou (20 kms).

Refreshing Escapes

The Lac de Mondèly (20 kms) offers good, fresh-water swimming, and has a basic café on its shore. There are several restaurants within 10 minutes’ drive.

Winter Wonderland Beckons

There is ski-ing in the Pyrénées (90 minutes’ drive) in most years from January to March and a recommended resort is Luchon.

Medieval Marvel

Mirepoix (58 km), a medieval town, has one of the most beautiful market squares in southern France, framed by richly decorated half-timbered houses. A visit is particularly worthwhile on Mondays, when the bustling Monday market stretches across the market square and the adjoining alleys.