Holidays with your dog in Ariège: dog-friendly accommodation and walks

Going on holiday with your dog takes a little organisation: finding pet-friendly accommodation, scouting suitable walks and knowing the local rules. Ariège, with its wide open spaces and hiking trails, is a department that lends itself well to a holiday with a four-legged companion.

Pet-friendly accommodation in Ariège

All accommodation at Domaine de la Trille (caravans and cottages) welcomes pets. The 240-hectare farm provides plenty of space to walk your dog. Guests are asked to keep dogs on a lead near the Limousin cattle herds, for the safety of both your pet and the animals.

Dog-friendly walks around Mirepoix

• Circuit around Lac de Montbel (20 min from the Domaine): 12 km trail around the lake, flat and shaded. Dogs on lead in supervised swimming areas, free elsewhere
• Trails around Mirepoix (5 min): easy walks through the surrounding countryside
• Bélesta Forest (25 min): shaded forest paths, suitable for dogs
• Roquefixade trail (25 min): climb towards the ruins of the Cathar castle, lead recommended on the path
• Domaine de la Trille paths: 240 hectares of meadows and woodland to explore

Mountain hiking with a dog

The Ariège Pyrenees offer many hiking trails accessible with a dog. Be aware, however: in summer grazing areas, dogs must be kept on a lead at all times because of the herds and the patous (livestock guardian dogs). The Ariège Pyrenees Regional Natural Park enforces this rule from May to October. Check with the local tourist office for the most suitable trails.

Swimming with your dog

Lac de Montbel (20 min from the Domaine) has supervised swimming areas where dogs are not allowed, but other access points to the lake are available outside those zones. The rivers of Ariège (Hers, Ariège) offer wild swimming spots where your dog can cool off. Check the signs on site for any local restrictions.

Practical tips

• Bring your pet's health record and ensure vaccinations are up to date
• Pack water and a bowl for hikes
• In summer, opt for walks early in the morning or at the end of the day to avoid the heat
• Watch out for processionary caterpillars in pine forests (spring)
• A vet is available in Mirepoix and Lavelanet if needed