Discover the Cathar Castles on a trail run
In summary
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Sports
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Duration4 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationAude / Cathar Country
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AgeFrom 16 - 70 years
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CO₂-Emissions53.27 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
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Languages
French
In a few words
You're a group of friends, then!
Escape for an unforgettable trail running trip in the heart of Cathar country , designed for adventure enthusiasts who want to explore a region rich in history while enjoying their favorite sport. In a small group of 6 to 7 trail runners , let yourself be guided along the trails of Ariège, amidst enchanting and authentic landscapes steeped in stories and legends. With a 75km route and 4500m of elevation gain , everything is organized so you can fully enjoy the experience: 4 visits to majestic castles , carefully planned stages , and guidance from an expert trail running and local history coach . You don't have to worry about a thing ; your luggage is transported , and each evening you'll arrive at a new, comfortable accommodation where you can relax, share your experiences of the day, and create unforgettable memories with your fellow runners. A trip that combines pleasure, discovery, and camaraderie.
The highlights
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Certified coach for a small group of 6 to 7 people
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A logistics system that ensures the transport of luggage
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For adventure enthusiasts who wish to explore a region by trail running
Photos
Sport
Level
Trail running
In figures
Trail and road running
- Average duration/day: 6h
- Average distance/day: 17 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 1000 m
- Average daily descent: 300 m
- Maximum altitude: 1900 m
Management
Program
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Roquefixade-Montferrier - 15 km, 700 m elevation gain
- Activity Trail and road running
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 15 km
- Positive elevation gain 700 m
- Maximum altitude 1000 m
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
You are welcomed and introduced to the trail running trip. You cover 15km with 700m of elevation gain along a magnificent ridge that leads directly to the Château de Roquefixade . You run overlooking this impressive medieval fortress. During the day, you analyze each other's running techniques and heart rate. The guided tour of the castle, located in the heart of Cathar Country, offers breathtaking views of the Pyrenees mountain range. In the evening, you share a pleasant medieval meal in a typical troubadour atmosphere. You spend the night in a traditional guesthouse in Montferrier.
Day 1 -
Montferrier-Montségur - 15 km, 1100 m elevation gain
- Activity Trail and road running
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 15 km
- Positive elevation gain 1100 m
- Maximum altitude 1200 m
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Depending on your fitness level, you can extend the route. You'll run trails along the Cathar Trail , which winds through a magnificent beech forest before culminating at the Montségur peak. This imposing castle, built on a rocky outcrop, was primarily defended by its difficult access. In this important site of Catharism, you'll discover, with commentary from Fabien, the secrets of this vanished religion . You'll also work on coordination, strengthening your mountain running techniques, and core stability. The day ends with a visit to the castle and museum. Afterward, you'll enjoy an Occitan meal , prepared with forgotten herbs and plants. You'll spend the night in an inn in the village of Montségur.
Day 2 -
Montségur-Lordat-18 KM-1200m
- Transportation Minibus - 01h - 40km
- Activity Trail and road running
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 18 km
- Positive elevation gain 1200 m
- Negative elevation 600 m
- Maximum altitude 1900 m
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
At sunrise, you take a final look at the Montségur pog before lacing up your trail shoes. The hike then sets off towards the Talc Quarry pass. Depending on the group's motivation and the weather, you can ascend the Pic du Soularac , a 500-meter climb to reach this summit at over 2,300 meters . You enjoy a break by a mountain lake. The descent continues towards the Château de Lordat, nicknamed "the Cathar cemetery." You visit the castle before being transferred to the gîte in Ussat-les-Bains for the night.
Day 3 -
Lordat-Château de Miglos- 17 KM 1100 m elevation gain
- Transportation Minibus - 01h - 50km
- Activity Trail and road running
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 17 km
- Positive elevation gain 1000 m
- Negative elevation 600 m
- Maximum altitude 1400 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
You begin the day with a beautiful trail run up to the pass overlooking the St. Barthélémy peak. You pass near the Roc de Miglos , a historical site known for its role during World War II. After a pleasant descent, you reach the Château de Miglos and explore it. The trip concludes with a friendly drink at the Relais des Cathares , where you share memories of this trail running adventure before saying goodbye.
Day 4
Accommodation
During this stay, you will sleep in a bed and breakfast, in a guesthouse and in a hostel in a dormitory shared with 6 people.
During this stay, you will sleep in a bed and breakfast, in a guesthouse and in a hostel in a dormitory shared with 6 people.
Access
Go to the starting point
Carpooling arrangements can be arranged.
Price details
The price includes
- THE trail running coaching
- Educational courses
- Luggage transport
- Accommodation in hostels, bed and breakfasts, and dormitory-style guesthouses shared with 6 people
- Full board
- Supplies
- Guided tours
- Energy drinks and supplements
The price does not include
- Civil liability
- Your transportation to the meeting point and from the end-of-internship location
Options
- Trail formula?♂️ : CHF0.00 / person
- Companion package? : CHF-366.83 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
Remember to have a medical certificate that is less than 6 months old.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- Camelbak trail running pack or pack with water bottle holder
- 500ml flask
- Trail running shoe
- Comfortable shoes
- Sunglasses
- Cereal bar or energy drink
- Toiletries
- Telescopic poles
- Sleeping bag liner or lightweight sleeping bag
Clothing to bring
- Short or tapered
- Breathable T-shirt
- spare t-shirt
- Windbreaker
- Caps
- Comfortable change of clothes