The Goose in Toulouse
8 av Paul Laffont
09200 Saint-Girons
telephone:
(+39) 334.9636215
email:
marybeth.tamborra@gmail.com
The Pyrenees are stunning for short or multi-day hikes, with a range of well-kept trails. Adventurous hikers, may opt to go into the mountains where they will meet the wild mountain sheep, and several species of birds and wild flowers. Hikers can sleep overnight in one of the many stone chalets. Prior to World War II, many of these mountain trails leading into Spain were part of the Chemin Liberte, a network of trails for those seeking refuge.
The Pyrenees Mountains are home to several of the world’s most famous cave sites. The region had been inhabited roughly 14,000 years ago by the Magdalenians, a group of homo sapiens. At Mas-d’Azil, visitors can wander through the network of galleries and halls, observing prehistoric tools and artifacts. The caves of Niaux offer the public a rare opportunity to see some of the world’s best preserved, ancient paintings. Wander 800m through the dark caves, dripping with calcium carbonate formations, to the black chamber. Here, visitors will experience an acoustically impressive space in which the Magdalenians came to paint detailed depictions of animals. Visitors of all ages can think like an archaeologist in the Parc de la Prehistorie, a 13 hectare site with prehistoric art and weaponry workshops, lectures, and games.
Cycling enthusiasts will love to follow the trails of the Tour de France, through this epic setting of mountains, valleys and riverbanks. There is no better way to appreciate the skill of these cyclists then to try the trails out yourself! With trails for all abilities, this region presents an array of landscapes and sights.
Wine Tasting
From the most celebrated names of Bordeaux to small producers in the Languedoc, the SW of France is bulging at its seams with great wine to be tasted, and the Goose in Toulouse can filter this sea of choices down to the handful of bottles and vineyards that are right for your tastes. Consult with us to determine your interests and we'll handle the rest: from vineyard tours, introductions to wine makers, wine tasting, wine making lessons, and souvenir recommendations.
Dining
A meal in the Midi-Pyrenees can inspire a holistic satisfaction: the grandeur of the Mountains, the freshness of the air, the atmosphere of the ancient wood and stone structures, is all holistically appreciated when taken in with a belly full of the region’s warm and hearty cuisine, and a mouth savoring the last sips of wine.
What makes the Midi-Pyrenees stand out is the simplicity and sincerity of time-honored dishes. A traveler to this region will undoubtedly try one form of duck, the region’s favorite meat. This region is renown as the best producer of foie gras, the fattened liver of a goose or duck. The region’s famous duck or pork sausages are substantial snacks, which seem to recall a mountaineer’s hunger on a long trek. On a chilly night, try a bowl of cassoulet, a traditional dish of beans with duck confit and sausage bathing in goose fat. Additionally, local cows, goat and sheep cheeses are not to be missed—especially the region’s prized Roquefort.
Horseback Riding
The old forests of the foothills of the Pyrenees are lush with vegetation, birds and wildlife. There is no better way to explore this land of ancient castles and stone houses, then to journey through the woods and small towns on horseback. Stables in the rural areas surrounding Saint-Girons provide tours for all levels of experience.
Tracing the history of the Cathars
The landscape of South-west of France is uniquely striking because of its many grey spires and towers jutting from the dark green hills and mountains. Explore these small cities or ancient fortifications, and learn about the Religious wars of the 10th and 11th century. During this time, Southwest France was inhabited by the Cathars, a Christian sect with dualistic and Gnostic beliefs. In 1209, fearing a threat to the Catholic Church, Pope Innocent III launched a crusade against the Cathars. Now, many of these castles and fortresses, in which the Cathars sought refuge, remain as historic monuments.
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