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Ax-les-Thermes: A Pyrenean Spa Town

Discover Ax-les-Thermes: A historic spa town in the French Pyrenees, offering thermal baths, outdoor adventures, and stunning mountain views.

Nestled in the heart of the French Pyrenees, Ax-les-Thermes is a charming spa town renowned for its thermal springs, stunning mountain scenery, and outdoor activities. With a history dating back to Roman times, the town offers a blend of relaxation, history, and adventure.

A brief summary to Ax-les-Thermes

  • Ax-les-Thermes, FR

Local tips

  • Soak your feet in the Bassin des Ladres, a free, open-air thermal pool in the town square.
  • Visit Les Bains du Couloubret for a modern spa experience in a historic setting.
  • Explore the hiking trails and scenic beauty of the Orlu Valley, located near Ax-les-Thermes.
  • Try local Pyrenean cuisine, such as cassoulet or garbure, at one of the town's restaurants.
  • Take the gondola from Ax-les-Thermes to the Ax 3 Domaines ski resort for skiing in winter or hiking in summer.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Ax-les-Thermes train station, the town center is approximately a 10-minute walk. Exit the station and walk along Avenue Théophile Delcassé towards the town. Continue onto Place Roussel, which is in the heart of Ax-les-Thermes, where you'll find shops and services. The Bassin des Ladres is located a short walk from Place Roussel. There is a free city shuttle that runs daily from July 5 to August 31, between 10 AM - 1 PM and 3 PM - 7 PM with stops at Gare SNCF and Square Delcassé.

  • Public Transport

    From Toulouse-Matabiau station, a direct train to Ax-les-Thermes takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. From the Ax-les-Thermes train station, the town center is approximately a 10-minute walk. A free city shuttle operates daily from July 5 to August 31, between 10 AM - 1 PM and 3 PM - 7 PM with stops at Gare SNCF and Square Delcassé. Train tickets from Toulouse to Ax-les-Thermes can start from €1 if booked in advance. A bus from Toulouse to Ax-les-Thermes takes approximately 2 hours and 39 minutes and costs €21-€30.

  • Driving

    From Toulouse, take the A61 motorway towards Pamiers, then continue on the N20 towards Ax-les-Thermes. The drive is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. As you enter Ax-les-Thermes, follow the signs to the town center. Parking is available in several locations, including Place du Breilh (paid parking) and Parking gratuit du Couloubrou (free parking). Parking at Place du Breilh costs €25 for 12 hours of parking. There is a free 1/2 hour of parking per day and per vehicle, but a ticket must be taken. The post-parking fee is €25.

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Discover more about Ax-les-Thermes

Ax-les-Thermes, located in the Ariège department, is a picturesque town that has drawn visitors for centuries with its therapeutic hot springs. The town's history is deeply intertwined with its thermal waters, first discovered and utilized by the Romans. In the Middle Ages, the waters were used to treat skin diseases, particularly among soldiers returning from battle. The Count of Foix established a leper hospital and the Bassin des Ladres in 1260. During the 19th century, Ax-les-Thermes gained prominence as a spa destination, attracting visitors from across Europe. Today, it remains a popular health resort, offering a variety of spa treatments and facilities. Les Bains du Couloubret is a modern spa facility offering thermal baths, saunas, and jacuzzis in a historic setting. The town boasts several open-air pools and fountains with thermal water accessible to the public free of charge. The Bassin des Ladres, a natural pool of hot sulphurous water, is a central point of interest. Ax-les-Thermes is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. In the winter, the nearby Ax 3 Domaines ski resort offers 80 kilometers of ski runs for all skill levels. In the summer, the surrounding mountains and valleys provide opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding. The town itself is charming, with narrow streets, old stone buildings, and a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can explore the Église Saint-Vincent, a 12th-century Romanesque church, and the belle-époque Casino. The local cuisine features hearty dishes such as cassoulet and garbure, reflecting the rustic traditions of the Pyrenees region.

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