Need a relaxing break ? Direction the resort of Ax-les-Thermes, on the borders of the Pyrenees Ariégeoises. Ax-les-Thermes is an ideal resort for combining winter sports and well-being and is known worldwide for its relaxing and beneficial waters. Summer and winter alike, it is the perfect place for a holiday under the sign of letting go.
Less than an hour from Spain, the city of Ax-les-Thermes enjoys a particularly privileged location. Thanks to its direct link to the ski area of "Ax 3 Domaines" (in 10 minutes by cable car), you will be able to descend more than 80 kilometers of alpine ski slopes, located between 1400 and 2400 meters of altitude. In winter, multiple activities are practised within the ski area, divided into three very different sectors : the gentle and wooded slopes of the Bonascre sector will be perfect for children and beginner skiers ; the snow-covered peaks of the Saquet summits will be ideal to observe impressive snowy panoramas, and the Campels sector will be the snowboarders' paradise because of its thick powder. In all, 9 green runs, 10 blue runs, 11 red runs and 6 black runs will offer you different skiing experiences, depending on your level. Don't panic for the novices, since two ski schools will allow them to make their first weapons on the snow, and to win their first medals. As a family, try snake gliss, igloo building or mountain biking on ice ! Put on your snowshoes to discover the snow-covered nature: in groups, as a family or as lovers, snowshoe walks are the best way to discover the secrets of the mountain. From the Bonascre plateau to the Saquet plateau, through forests and immaculate valleys, the landscapes are surprising. Ski touring is also one of the activities that you will absolutely have to discover : far from the sometimes crowded slopes, this sport will allow you to combine the joys of skiing with those of hiking, off the beaten track. The amateurs of strong sensations will be able to be initiated with the ski off-piste, with the parapente or still with the speed riding : you will have understood it, the pleasures are varied within the station.
In summer, the peaks adorned with white lose their snowy coats and are finally revealed, and the blue lakes enchant the green valleys of Ax-les-Thermes. This is the ideal time for sports outings in the heart of nature. Young and old can enjoy the benefits of the mountains under the sun on many occasions : fishing in mountain streams and lakes, mountaineering, swimming, tennis, mini-golf, archery, climbing, mountain biking, trail, pony rides... In short, there are a thousand and one ways to enjoy these holidays, while breathing the fresh mountain air to the full lungs.
Lastly, since it is specialized in the treatment of respiratory affections and rheumatisms, the city of Ax-les-Thermes is equipped with several thermal establishments, appreciated by the curists : it is besides one of the rare stations where one can benefit from the thermalism throughout the year. At the foot of the resort are the "Bains de Couloubret". In addition to a day of skiing or hiking, let yourself go to relaxation in a refined and cocooning setting, ideal to recover in warm water at 38°C after long hours of effort. Massages, water jets, Jacuzzis, Roman baths, hammam or sauna : where will you start ?