French Pyrenees hiking vacation

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION
We are committed to offering low-impact vacations, which benefit the countries and communities we visit, as well as our travelers and the natural environment. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimise our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible.

Walking is central to our itinerary, offering a lower-impact way to explore the countryside and discover its historic sites. This tour combines moderate-level walking excursions with private transport between locations, including transfers from Toulouse and journeys between Foix, Carcassonne and the surrounding castles. While private transport is necessary for some parts of the itinerary, making the most of walking days helps reduce our reliance on vehicles for sightseeing.

Our first accommodation, Hôtel Lons, is centrally located in Foix, close to the town's historic attractions and within walking distance of the railway station. The hotel holds the Accueil Vélo label, a French scheme supporting cycle-friendly accommodation, and provides bicycle storage facilities, which may be useful for guests who wish to explore the area by bike or use public transport.

TRIBE Carcassonne's restaurant, TRIBE Table, serves Italian-Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and locally sourced produce, with vegetarian and vegan options available. The hotel is listed as holding the Green Key environmental certification, whose practices include water-saving fixtures, energy conservation, recycling, food-waste reduction, responsible purchasing, and the use of local and organic ingredients.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE
We operate a ‘leave no trace’ policy in national parks, archaeological sites, monuments, and other sensitive areas like beaches and coastlines; these should be treated with the ultimate respect to maintain them for future generations. Our tour leaders are trained to promote this message to our customers during the trip.

We will be discovering the natural beauty of the Pyrenean foothills predominantly on foot, following sections of the GR 107 Cathar Trail through wooded landscapes, ancient terraces and dramatic mountain scenery. Our walks will take us between historic castles and rural villages, allowing us to experience the region at a slower pace to appreciate its landscapes and natural surroundings. As conscious visitors, we can help protect these environments by sticking to marked trails, taking litter away, and respecting local wildlife.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY
We provide ample opportunities to explore the local area on foot, where you can shop for local wares and crafts and immerse yourselves in the destination's cultural heritage. To enhance your experience, your tour leader will be joined by a knowledgeable, well-qualified local guide for the duration of the trip. Along the way, you'll explore local markets, cafés, vineyards, and family-run restaurants, helping to support the local economy.

Staying in Foix and Carcassonne provides opportunities to support local businesses and communities throughout the French Pyrenean foothills. You can explore traditional markets, visit local museums and enjoy the region's historic towns, while discovering its cultural heritage and local way of life. Our use of knowledgeable local drivers also helps connect visitors with the region and its communities.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY & DIVERSITY
We are committed to responsible and sustainable travel practices that support both the local environment and surrounding communities. By selecting environmentally conscious accommodation, encouraging reduced waste, and prioritising sustainable transport where possible, we aim to minimise our footprint. Through respectful engagement and conscious travel choices, we strive to protect natural landscapes while delivering enriching and memorable experiences.

Our walking tours are thoughtfully designed to immerse guests in local heritage and culture, building meaningful connections with the places and people we visit - including the employment of local tour guides. As a company, we believe in workplace diversity and equal employment, with opportunities available to everybody regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation or nationality.