Welcome to the charming town of Foix, nestled in the heart of the Ariège Pyrenees! Known for its rich historical heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes, Foix is an ideal destination for lovers of culture, nature and outdoor activities. In this article, we invite you to discover the 15 must-sees of this dynamic and welcoming town. Follow the guide and let yourself be seduced by this nugget of the South of France!
1. Château des Comtes de Foix
The Château des Comtes de Foix, the jewel in the crown of the town and the Ariège department, is a building whose history dates back to the 10th century. Originally, it was a military fortress designed to control access to the upper Ariège valley. Reputedly impregnable in the Middle Ages, the château later became the residence of the Counts of Foix, the most famous of whom was undoubtedly Gaston Phébus. Today, three magnificent towers remain in a perfect state of preservation: the oldest, slate-covered square tower, the middle tower and the most recent, Gothic-style round tower. As you enter the château, you'll admire some superb vaulted rooms dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries. The view from the château's terrace is also breathtaking!
See also our article "The 15 most beautiful Cathar castles to visit in Occitanie".
2. Stroll through the old town
For a charming stroll, head for the old town of Foix, located at the foot of the castle. This district has preserved its medieval authenticity, with narrow, winding streets, half-timbered houses and carved wooden doors. Don't miss the Rue des Grands Ducs, with its pontils linking the houses together. In the 11th century, the old town began to grow around the Saint-Volusien abbey, before expanding around the château. As you stroll along the cobbled streets, you'll be able to admire the old buildings and soak up the unique atmosphere of this historic district, which is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Occitanie.
3. Visit the Abbey of Saint-Volusien in Foix
The Abbey of Saint-Volusien in Foix is one of the city's most important religious buildings. Built in the 12th century, it houses the relics of Saint Volusien, archbishop of Tours who died at the city gates. The building's remarkable architecture blends Romanesque and Gothic styles. The portal, Romanesque capitals, statues and Renaissance-style altar are just some of the features to be admired during your visit. Renovation work has revealed the crypt of the original church, which was uncovered when the plaster was removed and the paving redone.
4. Musée départemental de l'Ariège
Housed in the Château de Foix, the Musée départemental de l'Ariège boasts a rich collection of objects and fossilstestifying to human activity in the region's caves. Archaeology enthusiasts will not be outdone, with a space devoted to the Gallo-Roman and medieval periods. Here, they can discover numerous weapons of war and hunting, evoking the castle's primary role. The museum continues with the history of the town of Foix after the medieval period, through collections of objects and paintings from the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries.
5. Rue de la Faurie, one of the prettiest streets in Foix's historic center
Rue de la Faurie is a must for lovers of architecture and heritage. Located in the historic center of Foix, it is considered one of the city's prettiest streets, alongside Rue Labistour and Rue des Grands Ducs. Take a stroll down Rue de la Faurie, and you'll be able to admire some magnificent half-timbered houses , whose weathered facades give them a real charm. Carved wooden doors are also a striking feature of the street's architecture, testifying to the skills of craftsmen of yesteryear.
6. Take the Saint-Sauveur walk
The Balade du Saint-Sauveur (Saint-Sauveur walk), which starts in the town of Comtale, is particularly popular with Foix residents for its breathtaking views of the castle and the old town. The well-marked path leads through a natural, almost Mediterranean woodland, dominated by holm oak and boxwood. From the highest point, you can admire the Cluse de Foix, carved out by the Ariège River as it makes its way to the Toulouse plain. The view over the town is simply breathtaking: the historic center, the château, the Saint-Volusien abbey church, the allées de Villote and the Pont Vieux are all revealed before your eyes.
In the background, you can see the Montgailhard peak, also known as Pain de Sucre (Sugar Loaf), followed by Mont Fourcat (2001m) and Pic Saint-Barthélemy (2348m)
7. Les Allées de Vilotte
The Allées de Vilotte are a must-see walk in Foix. In medieval times, Vilotte meant "little town" and was located outside the city walls. In the 13th century, following the destruction of the city walls, urban planning work was undertaken to turn this area into a place for relaxation and meetings, with alleys planted with plane trees and embellished with fountains.
Today, the Allées de Vilotte are a lively and friendly place, where the market is held every Friday. You'll also find numerous cafés and restaurants for a well-deserved gourmet break.
8. 5 km from Foix, the Forges de Pyrène
An unforgettable journey back in time... in an unforgettable village. Les Forges de Pyrène is a unique site dedicated to the history and crafts of the past in Ariège. Here you can discover over 120 trades, most of which have disappeared, through an impressive collection of tools, workshops and shows grouped around several themes. You'll discover itinerant trades, agriculture and animal husbandry, domestic life, housing and clothing. The animated barns allow you to discover the various living workshops around the village square: the blacksmith, the 1900 schoolhouse, the bread oven, the hammer forge, one of the last still in operation in France.
9. The Labouiche underground river
The Labouiche underground river isan exceptional prehistoric site discovered in 1908 by Dr. Jules Dunac. It is the longest navigable underground river in Europe, offering an unusual and spectacular experience. In a 12-person rowing boat, you'll descend 60 meters underground through 1.5 km of limestone galleries, where you'll be able to admire magnificent stalactites and stalagmites, as well as the Salette waterfall, all enhanced by lighting effects.
This underground adventure takes you from room to room, from concretions to gours, for a 75-minute guided tour, in two sections separated by a short walk.
10. The Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature in Foix
The Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature, located on the banks of the Labarre lake in Foix, was designed by the Fédération des Chasseurs d'Ariège to offer visitors a unique experience dedicated to hunting and nature. The museum retraces the history of hunting from prehistoric times to the present day, through an educational and historical trail. You can also discover an exhibition of the region's flora and fauna. For total immersion, a cave has been reconstructed to take you back in time, step by step. You can also learn more about Gaston Fébus, author of the famous book on hunting.
11. Visit the chapel of Notre Dame de Montgauzy
The Chapelle de Notre Dame de Montgauzy is a must-see religious building in Foix. Over the centuries, the chapel has undergone numerous transformations, notably in the 18th century when it was enlarged and renovated in the Baroque style. The particularity of the Chapelle de Notre Dame de Montgauzy lies in its unique architecture, built on an octagonal plan. The chapel's interior is also worth a visit, with its colorful frescoes and gilded wood carvings. The view from the top of the hill on which the chapel stands is spectacular, offering panoramic views over the town of Foix and the surrounding mountains.
12. Fresh air at Parc Bouychères
The Parc de Bouychères is a green space on the banks of the Ariège river, just a 15-minute walk from the historic center of Foix. Children can enjoy their own play area, while the more sporty can work out on the fitness trail or the petanque court. Nature lovers can admire Sylvain Meschia's works in the form of calligraphy sticks, or observe the jays, rabbits, squirrels and hundred-year-old elm that populate the park. The Parc de Bouychères is particularly recommended for sunsets, thanks to its north-western exposure.
13. Discover Foix's culinary specialties
A must-try is cassoulet, a dish made with white beans, pork and duck, which is a veritable institution in the region. Cheese lovers won't want to miss Bethmale, a sheep's milk cheese made in the Ariège mountains, which is often served with grilled meat.
Desserts are not to be outdone in Foix, with the famous tarte aux myrtilles (blueberry tart), made from wild blueberries picked in the surrounding forests. Gourmets can also indulge in croquants aux amandes, a local specialty made from almonds, sugar and egg whites, particularly popular at tea or coffee time.
Discover the best restaurants in Foix to enjoy authentic, tasty cuisine made from fresh, local produce.
Where to stay in Foix?
Foix is a tourist town offering a variety of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. Visitors can choose to stay in a hotel, B&B, gîte or campsite. For those who prefer hotels, there are several options in downtown Foix, close to the most popular tourist sites. Hotels vary in price and services, from budget to luxury.
Discover our favorite accommodations in Foix:
- The quietest: Hotel Pyrène
This charming 3-star hotel is ideally located on the outskirts of Foix, well back from the hustle and bustle of the motorway. The hotel stands out for its value for money and its quiet, bucolic setting. Views from the rooms overlook the mountains or the pleasant garden. Click here to book your stay!
- The most beautiful view: Auberge les Myrtilles
A 20-minute drive from Foix, this forest inn is a haven of peace. With 8 cosy, comfortable rooms and a gîte amid the fir trees at the top of the Col des Marrous, this forest inn boasts a superb panorama of the Pyrenees. Heated indoor pool with sauna and whirlpool. Go here to book your stay!
- The cheapest : Brit Hotel Confort Foix
The Brit Hotel Confort Foix offers very comfortable rooms with a bright, sober decor. You can enjoy an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet, and secure, enclosed parking. And if you happen to be in Foix in early autumn, you can watch the stag roar from your room! Click here to book your stay!
What beautiful villages to visit around Foix?
The region around Foix is rich in beautiful villages to visit, among the most beautiful in the South of France. Here are just a few that are well worth a visit:
- Saint-Lizier: Located around 30 kilometers from Foix, this medieval village is ranked among the most beautiful in France. It boasts a Romanesque cathedral, bishops' palace and cloister, as well as numerous half-timbered houses.
- Mirepoix: Some 40 kilometers from Foix, this village is famous for its medieval square lined with arcaded houses. It also boasts a fine Gothic cathedral and an art and history museum.
- Camon: Located around 25 kilometers from Foix, this small fortified village is a real hidden gem. Listed as one of France's most beautiful villages, it is home to numerous stone houses, a Romanesque church and a château.
- Montségur : Some 50 kilometers from Foix, this village is best known for its Cathar castle, perched on a rocky peak. The village itself is also very charming, with its stone houses and narrow streets.
- Ax-les-Thermes: Situated around 60 kilometers from Foix, this village is famous for its natural hot springs and spas. It's also surrounded by magnificent mountains and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and winter sports.
What to do in Foix with children
Foix is an ideal destination for families with children. Here are a few activities to do with them:
- Parc de Bouychères: this park on the banks of the Ariège is perfect for a family day out. It features children's games, a fitness trail, a petanque court, a picnic area, a fenced-in dog-free zone and Sylvain Meschia's artwork in the form of calligraphy sticks.
- Les Forges de Pyrène: this fun, interactive museum traces the history of the Ariège region through more than 120 trades, most of which have now disappeared. Children can discover tools, workshops and shows depicting daily life in the early 20th century.
- The Labouiche underground river: this unusual and highly spectacular 1.5 km excursion, in a 12-person boat 60 m underground on Europe's longest navigable underground river, takes children on a tour of beautiful underground landscapes.
- Château de Foix: children can take on the role of knightsas they visit this medieval castle. They can also admire the breathtaking view of the town and surrounding mountains from the castle's terrace.
What to do in Foix when it rains?
Even if the weather isn't on your side in Foix, there are still plenty of interesting things to do to make the most of your stay. Here are a few ideas for things to do in Foix when it's raining:
- Visit the Musée départemental de l'Ariège: this museum, located in the Château de Foix, features a rich collection of prehistory, paleontology, Gallo-Roman and medieval archaeology, as well as art and history of the region.
- Discover the Chapelle de Notre Dame de Montgauzy: this 13th-century chapel is an important place of worship in the region, as well as a popular tourist attraction. It features magnificent frescoes and sculptures in gilded wood.
- Relax at the municipal swimming pool:Foix's municipal swimming pool has indoor and outdoor pools, as well as a wellness area with sauna and hammam.
Did you enjoy our article and would you like to discover the area around Foix? Check out our Top 13 hikes in the Pyrenees and The 15 most beautiful villages in the Pyrenees.
Book in advance below the trendiest activities to do during a stay in the area:
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