A seasonal gondola connects the centre of Ax-les-Thermes with Ax 3 Domaines. If you plan to use this connection, check the current timetable before your trip.

Winter activities in Ax 3 Domaines

The area has 38 ski runs with a total length of 80 km, at elevations between 1,400 m and 2,400 m. There are three free snowshoeing trails starting from the Plateau de Bonascre and another from the Plateau du Saquet. In winter, access to these trails depends on snow conditions and whether the resort is operating.

The Natural Forest Park snowpark has a variety of lines with rails, boxes and jumps for all levels. It is seasonal, and its operating status may change. Check the current operating conditions and snow conditions before your trip.

Thermal waters and local history

The thermal waters of Ax-les-Thermes emerge naturally hot, reaching temperatures of up to 77 °C. In the centre, there are outdoor thermal pools for relaxing after hikes or days on the slopes. The Les Bains du Couloubret facility offers naturally hot pools with water jets, massage features, bubbling areas and steam. Check access to the individual pools and facilities before your trip.

The Bassin de l’Axéenne continues the tradition of bathing one’s feet in thermal water. It is located on Place Saint-Jérôme in the town centre and is fed by diverted thermal water. Until around the middle of the 18th century, Ax’s thermal centre, also known as the “Barry des Bains”, was concentrated around the Bassin des Ladres.

The Bassin des Ladres is also historically linked to the hospital in Ax. Count Roger IV de Foix founded it in 1260 at the behest of Saint Louis. Among others, it took in soldiers who had returned from the Crusades with leprosy.

Chapels, architecture and trails

The Chapelle Saint-Jérôme was built in 1607 in nine months, following a public fundraising campaign for the Brotherhood of the Blue Penitents. It has a 17th-century gilded wooden altarpiece in the Pyrenean style and is currently used as an exhibition hall; this use may change. The Church of Saint Vincent was rebuilt in the 17th century in the Catalan-Languedoc style.

For a circuit of notable buildings and thermal sites, take the town discovery trail: it has 16 information panels, is about 1.7 km long and takes approximately one hour. The route also passes thermal pools and hot-water fountains.

For a longer walk, follow the signposted La Porteille d’Orgeix circular trail. It starts in Ax-les-Thermes, is 8 km long and has 370 m of elevation gain. The trail passes through several valleys on its way up to the Rocher de la Vierge. From there, panoramic views stretch across Ax-les-Thermes and the surrounding villages; beneath the rock is a small chapel with a small altar.

Market and regional produce

A regular market is held year-round on Place Saint-Jérôme on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 7 am to 1 pm. Check the current market days and times before your visit. La boutique de La Ferme offers tastings of local products, with explanations of the history of farming in Ariège. Check in advance to find out what tasting options are available.

Discover more destinations: Dun, Miglos, Capoulet-et-Junac, Esplas, Soula, Rieux-De-Pelleport, Seix, L'aiguillon

For the full travel overview: Ariège.