A few kilometres from Pamiers, which sits halfway between Toulouse and the Pyrenean ski resorts, and is the main town of the area, La Lampisterie makes a wonderful home-from-home for any sort of stay in the Ariège.

The numerous sites of interest in the area cater to a wide range of trips and activities. Whether you want to climb a via ferrata or test your skills at tree climbing and ziplining in one of the dedicated parks; to seek the thrills of downhill or cross-country skiing or to walk or ride (horseback or on a bike) along the countless trails of the valley’s of the Pyrenees Ariégeoises; or to practise sports, bathing or fishing in the numerous mountain lakes and rivers, you’ll be spoilt for choice year-round, however long your stay might be.

The motorway nearby places internationally renowned spa town Ax-les-Thermes and its thermal springs within easy reach. The Couloubret baths, decorated in the style of Ancient Rome, are fed by the thermal waters that made the town famous. Nearby are the Mountain Observatory and the Wolf Park.

History left its mark on the Ariège and the area in many ways along the centuries, and there are caves, traditional villages and castles in abundance. The caves of the Mas d'Azil, Niaux, Vache or Bédeilhac will interest anyone – young or old – with an interest in prehistory and speleology, as will a visit to the Museum of Prehistory in Tarascon-sur-Ariège. The traditional towns of Mirepoix and Carla-Bayle; the rupestrian church of Vals; and the town of Foix and its superb castle, as well as the impressive remains of the famous Cathar castle of Montségur, will fascinate anyone curious about the Middle Ages and the story of the Cathars. After barely an hour’s drive, you could also find yourself strolling in the streets of the amazing and majestic city of Carcassonne, magnificent living remain of the Middle-age.

Within reach of La Lampisterie of Le Carlaret there are many other parks and museums to relax and entertain you. Among others, there are the forges at Pyrène in Foix; the bison farm and the bamboo garden – both in Lapenne, a few minutes away from the house, and many more.