Le Prat d’Albis in Ariège: hiking, biking and paragliding above Foix
The Prat d’Albis, perched at an altitude of 1,200 metres, is the ideal place to get a breath of fresh air in the Pyrenees. This high plateau, perched at an altitude of 1,200 metres, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Ariège mountains. Here you can hike, paraglide and cycle “in the wheels” of the Tour de France.
On the ridges of Prat d’Albis
Nestled in the heart of the Ariège Pyrenees, 40 minutes from the campsite on the way to Foix, the Prat d’Albis plateau can be reached via the D421, a narrow, winding mountain road surrounded by lush greenery. This 15 km pass offers remarkable views of the medieval town of Foix and its château comtal, the Barguillère valley , the Plantaurel massif (nicknamed the“little Pyrenees“) and the Ariège plain. In summer, the plateau comes alive during the estives, when herds of cows climb to the highest altitudes.
How to get to Prat d’Albis
Le Prat d’Albis can be reached on foot along one of the many hiking trails, or by car. From Foix, it takes around 25 minutes by car. Once there, walk to Bout du Touron for spectacular views of the Pyrenees. Higher up, the gentle ridges will take you to the Roc de Batail, the highest point of the Arize massif at 1,716 meters.
Hiking at Prat d’Albis
The Prat d’Albis plateau can be reached on foot via several routes, notably from the village of Ganac. It’s quite a climb, but the paths are well-marked and without any major technical difficulties. Nevertheless, don’t forget to bring good hiking boots.
- Ganac > Prat d’Albis: departure from Ganac village square , through the Trabès forest , via the Roc Blanc path and the Fer à Cheval pastoral site. Elevation gain: 650 m, duration: 3 hrs.
- Ganac > hameau de Micou > Prat d’Albis: this route passes through the state forest of the former consulate of Foix and offers a breathtaking view of the Picou. Elevation gain: 470 m, duration: 2h15.
- Prayols > Prat d’Albis: passing under the Prat Redon antennae, you follow the path of the three Piche waterfalls and cross the beech and chestnut forest. Distance: 8 km, altitude difference: 620 m, duration: 2h30.
Cycling at Prat d’Albis: a legendary Tour de France climb
The Prat d’Albis plateau became a legend during the 2019 Tour de France cycliste, when Thibaut Pinot pulled out all the stops. This ascent is a great challenge for cyclists who love beautiful climbs. From the center of Foix, you’ll have to pedal for 12 km, with an average climb of 1,000 meters. It’s a tough climb, with 4 kilometers at 10%. Quite a climb, but the view in the final kilometers rewards the effort.
Paragliding at Prat d’Albis, the best spot in Ariège
Recognized as one of the best paragliding sites in Ariège, the Prat d’Albis attracts many enthusiasts. Several paragliding clubs and schools offer you the chance to take off from the Prat plateau and land in the village of Ganac. You’ll enjoy a magical moment above the Foix valley, sometimes in the company of vultures and other Pyrenean birds of prey soaring over the mountain pastures.