The Ariege Department
The Ariège region is nestled in the Pyrenees, next to Andorra. It is one of the least populated, most preserved regions of France. The people have maintained not only their land but their traditions. During your stay we will visit a few of its breathtaking rural areas.
Sacred Land: Montsegur &
The Cathars
The region endured sieges, massacres and the Inquisition during the bloody Albigensian crusade in the 12th and 13th centuries. The spiritual movement called catharism developed in reaction to the corruption and disarray of the Church at that time. In stark contrast to the worldly, dissolute clergy of the era, the Cathars followed a rigorous interpretation of the gospels, with the most pious of the believers, called "Perfects", taking vows of poverty and celibacy and refusing to eat meat. It was their belief in dualism, however, that outraged the Church. We will visit some parts of these sacred lands. Plan on a leisure hike up Montsegur to the ruins of the chateau, with a breathtaking view.
French Culture in the Ariège Department
Mirepoix
The cooking term, mirepoix, is mixture of diced carrots, onions, and herbs used to flavor sauces or for braising meats. It was named after the 18th century Duke of this area, whose cook is apparently credited with this technique. We will visit this open air traditional market where you can find freshly picked forest mushrooms, home grown produce even antiques, clothing, wine and trinkets. You could hear the sounds of musicians playing in the surrounding cafes.
Local Wines
The wines of the Ariége are virtually unknown and unheard of outside the local area. We will visit a local wine maker to taste this ancient tradition.