The city of Carcassonne is a walled city,a fortified medieval town. The town has been occupied by man since the 6th century B.C and is well worth a trip.

Saint-Lizier is a beautiful ancient roman town which is steeped in history and about 20 minutes away from Maison Famille. The town is officially classed as one of the most beautiful villages in France. There are views to be seen of the magnificent mountains in the Couserans region. In the summer the classical music festival is held here.

Saint Girons holds a lively and bustling farmers market where most of the produce is grown organically. The summer festival in Saint Girons is the Rites festival which features folk dance groups from many countries. A great community event where you can really feel the French way of life.

Mas d’Azil, is 10 minutes away from La Maison Famille you can enjoy a visit to the caves here and then spend the afternoon taking lunch in the village or take a visit to the museums located here. A weekly market is held every Wednesday.

Maison Famille is located in the department of Ariege. The Ariege is situated at the foothills of the Pyrenees and right next door is Andorra. Andorra is great for skiing and duty free shopping. Ariege is well known for being unspoiled. It is the least populated region of France. The countryside in this area is famous for its trout fishing, water sports, walking, hiking, cycling and of course its winter sports. It also offers many towns steeped with history for sight seeing and local markets with an abundance of shops for your enjoyment. Whatever your pleasure you will not be short of things to do.

Foix is a 20 minute car journey away from Masion Famille, a must whilst visiting Foix is the castle. There is an abundance of shops along the cobbled streets of Foix as well as a weekly market. There are a variety of restaurants to choose from. During the summer there is a medieval fair.Just near to Foix is the river of Labouiche which is the longest underground river which is still navigable and is open to the public.

Mirepoix is a medieval Bastide town full of half timbered house all converging onto a large square. Mirepoix was origionally next to the river Hers but in 1279 there was a great flood which swept away the whole town. The town as it exists today was totally rebuilt. Visit on any Monday morning and you will find a vibrant market. In the evening the square is a great place to go with Jazz bands and restaurants.

Lavelanet - Pay D'olmes is for you if it is museums you are interested in. The museums include textiles and horn combs.

Ax-les-Thermes is an easy hours drive away and it is the largest thermal spa in Ariege with no less than 60 natural springs, the temperatures of which vary from 17-77 degrees. The speciality of these springs is the treatment of rheumatism and respiratory problems. In the town centre there is a hot spring fed basin in which you are more than welcome to soak your feet. Here you will also find the largest ski station(down hill and cross country),in the whole of Ariege.

Le Donezan is worth a visit to see the most spectacular wildlife and plantlife. It is in the far southeastern most tip of the Arige and is surrounded by beautiful mountain peaks of 2300 to 2808m and has marvellous forestry. This area is fantastic for hikers in the spring summer and autum.