Bordered in its north by the meanders of the Ariège, Bompas takes place in the heart of a region rich in exceptional natural heritage and remarkable buildings. Pearl of Occitania, 15 kilometres south of Foix, it is the perfect place to stay if you dream of tranquillity, culture and sports activities for the whole family.
An ancient medieval village, fortified and recognized in the region, Bompas, in the department of Ariège, dominates from its terraces the passage of the peaceful river. In the Pays de Tarascon, this village of character is a real paradise for those seeking calm and serenity. But it is also a small paradise for sports enthusiasts who can easily enjoy all their favourite activities. Cyclists can set off to conquer the Col de Marmare (1361 metres above sea level) accessible from the village, but also the Corniche road which offers from its heights magnificent views of the passes, mountains and green valleys surrounding the commune, dotted with old Romanesque churches. If there is one place that we recommend you to discover with your family, it is the Mercus Lake. Just to the north of the town, this 45-hectare lake has a perfect nautical base for (re)discovering the pleasures of water sports. You can choose between a swimming session on the lake, a picnic under the sun, an introduction to the water ski lift, wakeboarding, bi-skiing, windsurfing, giant paddle, SUP solo or even take advantage of the lake for a little pedal boat ride that will delight young and old alike.
On the sightseeing side, the Natural Park of the Ariege Pyrenees and the valleys surrounding Bompas are full of absolutely magnificent sites to visit. Accessible on foot, by bike or by car, they are some of the places that make the history of the region, starting with the Grotte de Niaux (9 kilometres south of Bompas): an ornate cave open to the public, it offers its visitors a real plunge into the heart of Prehistory and its art. There are many caves that you can visit during your stay in Bompas, all located less than an hour's drive from the village. The Cave of Bédeilhac (9 kilometres away), Sakany (4 kilometres away), Sabart (5 kilometres away), Lombrives (3 kilometres away) and L'Herm (26 kilometres away) are also on the list of sites not to be missed during your visit. The caves are joined by the many castles that the Ariège region is home to, each one more beautiful and ancient than the next. If the Cathar castle of Roquefixade is a must (18 kilometres away), the ruins of the castle of Miglos (11 kilometres away) perched on its limestone spur, the Tower of Castella in Tarascon-sur-Ariège (3 kilometres away) and the castle of Lordat (20 kilometres away) are also to be added to the list of your visits. Foix, its castle and abbey of Combelongue less than 15 kilometres to the north, or the Artigue waterfalls not far from the Montcalm Massif and the Spanish border (about 30 kilometres by bike) will complete your discovery of the region's heritage, for a change of scenery, cultural and amazing holidays in Bompas, which you will remember for a long time, that's for sure!
