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french pyrénées

Nestled in the foothills of the Ariège region, this running retreat will guide you through lush rivers, valleys, and high mountainous single tracks, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the magnificent mountain scenery of the Pyrénées and its natural surroundings.

Ariège, France

6 days, 5 nights

Activity level: Dynamic Challenge (Advanced)

Running experience

From $3,149 USD

Ranging daily from 10 to 16km

Discover the world through running

We look for new perspectives within cultures and communities in remote places that exist outside of modern societal structures which are focused only in progress and gains.

Your Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Airport Meet Up - Welcome Yoga Practice - Home Cooked Dinner

We will meet at the Toulouse Blagnac Airport before our transfer to Gaudiès.
After taking time to arrive and settle, we will meet in the garden of Zero Neuf for a restorative yoga practice with a panoramic view of the high Pyrénées mountains.

Later we will gather for a home cooked welcome dinner prepared by our Host Joss at her home and our accommodation, Zero Neuf.

Accomodation: Zero Neuf – Twin or triple share

Dinner: Included

Day 2: L'Hers River Wild Swim - 6 km Farm Trail Run - Birdlife Walk

We kick off the day with an early start, diving into a meditation session and enjoying a wild swim right in front of the lodge in the L’Hers river. After a cozy homemade breakfast, we come together for our first run, where we’ll get acquainted with trail running in the area.

This 6 km loop starts from our house, taking us over rolling farmlands and along the L’Hers River.

In the afternoon, it’s time for a delightful lunch followed by a chance to join a birdlife walk with Jo, a local wildlife enthusiast.

Accomodation: Zero Neuf – Twin or Triple share

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: Included

Day 3: Gaudies to Refuge du Fourcat - 8 km Hike to Mountain Refuge

On this day our local mountain guide, Thomas Galpin, will take us through untouched forest and up to what will be our home for the next two nights. This refuge perched high above 2,000 m overlooks three small lakes, and those that wish can have the opportunity to swim in their waters.

During this part of our adventure, we will be carrying our own belongings up to the refuge, so please remember to pack smartly and lightly, and be sure to use a suitable hiking bag.

Accomodation: Shared occupancy in a mountain refuge – Twin or Bunk style

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: Included

Day 4: L'Etang du Fourcat - 17 km feature Mountain Run, Tristagne at 2,878 m

Today, we ascend beyond the Refuge following a looped course that takes us over two mountain passes and across the Tristagne mountain range. This day will present the most challenging terrain, and we’ll take care in our preparations to ensure that everyone has a fulfilling experience.

Our meals will be served once more in the refuge, with the resident Guardian preparing our food.

Accommodation: Shared occupancy in a mountain refuge – twin or bunk style.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: Included

Day 5: Descent from the Mountains - 8 km hike - Transfer to Gaudies via Foix

As we hike down from the mountain range, we’ll arrive at the historic Roman town of Foix, where we’ll enjoy lunch. Afterward, we’ll journey back to Gaudiès for a farewell dinner and our concluding yoga session.

Accommodation: Zero Neuf – twin or triple share.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: Included

Day 6: Final Morning Run - Breakfast - Transfer to Toulouse Blagnac Airport

In the morning we’ll gather for a final run and share a farewell breakfast to mark the conclusion of our journey.

Breakfast: Included

Shuttle to Airport included

Our team

Who to follow

Our Hosts

George Bauer is a Melbourne-raised runner who now lives in the Highlands of Scotland, fulfilling a dream to explore single track trails from his doorstep. Having run marathons and informal events across 4 continents, George’s inspiration comes from the vast and varied experiences that running has brought him.

He is a project designer focused on creating community through his love of plant-based food, and the exciting ways in which we can exercise the body and mind.

You can find him on Instagram at @__georgebauer

Thomas Galpin is a French mountain lover living near the Pyrénnées. He left Toulouse two years ago in order to be closer to the mountains and adopt a «local» life.

Thomas has competed a lot in the past (mostly ultra trail and adventure races), which has developed its adventure spirit. He is constantly searching for creating new adventures and sharing good moments with friends in the mountains.

photo gallery

Immerse in this adventure that involves a powerful blend of running and hiking, all set amidst the tranquil foothills of the Ariège region. You’ll traverse lush rivers, tranquil valleys, and challenging mountain tracks. Conquer the Tristagne mountain range, revitalize yourself with invigorating wild swims in the L’Hers river, partake in guided birdlife walks, and savor the unforgettable experience of staying at a mountain refuge with breathtaking views of three picturesque lakes.

about your next experience

Frency Pyrénées

Join us for an exhilarating journey that combines the thrill of running and hiking, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Ariège region’s tranquil foothills. Immerse yourself in the beauty of lush rivers, tranquil valleys, and challenging mountain tracks!

Accommodation Options

For nights 1, 2, and 5, your accommodation awaits at Zero Neuf, a beautifully transformed 1800s riverside farmhouse nestled in the heart of the village of Gaudies.

Nights 3 and 4 at the mountain refuge offer twin or bunk-style accommodation, providing a cozy rest. Positioned at an elevation of over 2000 meters, the refuge offers a mesmerizing view of three small lakes.

You have the choice to enhance your experience for nights 1,2 and 5 by upgrading to private accommodations at check-out. No Single Supplement available for nights 3 and 4.

Please refer to the itinerary for detailed information about the capacity available for accommodations on each night of the trip.

Weather

In June, Ariège transforms into a splendid summer haven. As spring fades away, the region enjoys comfortably mild to warm temperatures. You can expect daytime temperatures to hover around 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), making it just right for outdoor adventures. Although occasional light showers might pass by, most days in June are sunny and inviting, urging you to enjoy Ariège’s stunning landscapes under the gentle embrace of the early summer sun.

Included / Not Included

INCLUDED:

Transportation throughout the whole experience.
Specially designed trails along the magical landscapes of the French Pyrénées mountain range.
Carefully curated culinary experiences.
*We can accommodate all dietary preferences.
Exclusively designed yoga and meditation sessions.
All meals and accommodations for the duration of the experience.
Knowledgeable and professional local guides.
Aire Libre & partner brands merchandise.
Complimentary La Familia Global Community Membership ($ 25 USD value)
Dedicated sports and action photographer to capture your moments.

NOT INCLUDED:

Airfare for your inbound and outbound flights to Toulouse / France.
Travel Insurance. We highly recommend securing personal travel insurance for your peace of mind.
Alcoholic beverages and any additional meals beyond the provided ones.

Before You Travel

Currently, France’s international borders remain open.
A valid passport is required for entry.
ETIAS visa might be required depending on nationality.
Foreigners might be required to present a return ticket.

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This trip brings to life the classic French Summer holiday dream. As we practice yoga and relax by the river overlooking rolling farmland and mountain peaks on the horizon, Our adventure then comes to life, as we find ourselves high up in the mountains, scaling above the valleys with a feeling of solitude like no other. The Ariège and Haute Pyrénées are seriously something else.

George, Local Partner and designer of the experience

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Discover The World Through Running.

french pyrénées

Nestled in the foothills of the Ariège region, this running retreat will guide you through lush rivers, valleys, and high mountainous single tracks, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the magnificent mountain scenery of the Pyrénées and its natural surroundings.

Discover the world through running