Discover Ax-Les-Thermes

Ax-Les-Thermes brings together thermal waters and local history with winter sports and hiking trails. Several thermal sites are located in the town centre; a gondola lift connects the centre with Ax 3 Domaines, and the La Porteille d’Orgeix circular hike starts in Ax-Les-Thermes. When planning your stay, you can choose between baths and historic sites, winter activities and a hiking route with a clearly measured distance and elevation gain.

Thermal Waters and Baths

The thermal waters emerge naturally hot, reaching temperatures of up to 77°C. In the centre, there are outdoor thermal pools for relaxing after hikes or days on the slopes. Les Bains du Couloubret has naturally hot pools with water jets, massages, whirlpool areas and steam rooms. If you are planning a visit, check the current access arrangements for the pools in advance.

The Bassin de l’Axéenne is on Place Saint-Jérôme in the town centre and is supplied with diverted thermal water. It continues the Axéenne tradition of bathing one’s feet in thermal water. As operating details can change, it is advisable to check the latest information before visiting.

Historic Traces in the Centre

Until around the middle of the 18th century, the thermal centre was concentrated around the Bassin des Ladres. This pool is linked to the history of the hospital in Ax: Count Roger IV of Foix founded it in 1260 at the request of Saint Louis. Among those admitted to the hospital were soldiers returning from the Crusades with leprosy.

The Chapelle Saint-Jérôme was built in 1607 in nine months following a public fundraising campaign for the Brotherhood of the Blue Penitents. It has a 17th-century Pyrenean-style gilded wooden altarpiece and now serves as an exhibition hall. If you are planning a visit, check how it is currently being used. The Church of Saint Vincent also tells the story of the town’s construction: it was rebuilt in the 17th century in the Catalan-Languedoc style.

Winter Sports at Ax 3 Domaines

Ax 3 Domaines has 38 ski runs totalling 80 km, at elevations between 1,400 m and 2,400 m. A gondola lift connects the centre of Ax-Les-Thermes with the ski area; it operates seasonally. Check current operating conditions before travelling.

For snowshoeing, Ax 3 Domaines offers three trails that are free to access from the Plateau de Bonascre and another from the Plateau du Saquet. Access in winter depends on snow conditions and whether the resort is operating. The Natural Forest Park snowpark has a range of lines with rails, boxes and kickers for all levels. As a seasonal facility, its operating status may change.

Hiking and Exploring Ax on Foot

The marked La Porteille d’Orgeix circular hike starts in Ax-Les-Thermes, is 8 km long and has an elevation gain of 370 m. It passes through several valleys on the way up to the Rocher de la Vierge. From there, you can enjoy panoramic views over Ax-Les-Thermes and the surrounding villages. Beneath the rock is a small chapel with a small altar. The Rocher can be reached by a footpath behind the thermal facility at the pond; check the condition of the path before setting out.

For a shorter outing, there is the town trail: it is around 1.7 km long, takes about an hour and has 16 information panels. The route passes notable buildings, thermal pools and hot-water fountains. Compared with the 8 km circular hike, it offers a shorter way to explore the town, focusing on its thermal history and architecture.

Market and Regional Agriculture

A market is held on Place Saint-Jérôme year-round on Tuesdays and Saturdays, from 7 am to 1 pm. Check the market days before your visit. At La boutique de La Ferme, you can sample local products, accompanied by explanations of the history of agriculture in Ariège; check the tasting arrangements in advance.

Laurent offers guided tours, picnics, food walks and farm visits. Advance arrangements may be required. Discover more destinations: Massat, Villeneuve-Du-Latou, Miglos, Artigat, Villeneuve-D'olmes, Saint-Martin-D'oydes, Lacave, Soulan.

For the broader travel overview: Ariège.