You stroll through the medieval streets of Foix and you want to gain height to enjoy a nice panorama after your visit to castle ? The Pech terraces are an ideal spot to enjoy a breathtaking view of the castle, the county town and the Barguillère valley, surrounded by nature, accessible on foot from the historic center and the train station!
A hike at the gates of the historic center
As the Saint-Sauveur walking trail (closed to the public until April 30, 2025), this trail offers you the opportunity to escape into nature, a stone's throw from the medieval streets. Once you have crossed the old bridge spanning the Ariège River, go under the porch and dare to take this trail which will take you, in just under an hour on foot, to these beautiful dry stone terraces, nestled above the town of Foix. On this forest path, you will see the viewpoint over the castle evolve as you climb. Once there, take a seat on the dry stone terraces and contemplate the horizon!
After the effort, the comfort
Once your climb is finished, what could be better than a nice picnic with products freshly brought back from the morning market or an aperitif to admire the sunset over the entire valley. Or why not stop at Brasserie de la Fourche, on the other side of the bridge after coming back down, to enjoy a local beer and share a friendly evening with friends. That's also what Foix is: going on an adventure and experiencing warm moments, even with only a few hours to spare.
Fauna and flora of the Pech terraces
The fauna and flora also change according to the seasons. This place is a true haven of peace for many species of birds which find refuge there. In spring and summer, the Terrasses du Pech are dotted with colorful wildflowers. If you pay attention, you might even spot some wild asparagus growing along your path, adding an unexpected culinary twist to your stroll.
The site is also classified Natura 2000 because of its high value in terms of biodiversity.
An interpretive trail that bears witness to the agricultural life of yesteryear
This hike allows you to see, via a series of terraces, the intense agricultural and pastoral life which developed until the beginning of the XNUMXth century. These terraces made it possible to develop these slopes to be able to cultivate agricultural land in Pech. The present heritage is also the guardian of this era with the orri (dry stone shelter which sheltered the farmers) which is located near the terraces. This interpretive trail was created thanks to a partnership between the Pastoral Federation and the town of Foix.
F.A.Q.
Where is the trailhead?
To start the hike, cross the old bridge and dare to enter a small recess at 6 Cours Bouychères, where you will then pass under a house by taking the stairs.
Where can we park to access the trailhead?
We advise you to park your vehicle in the Foix SNCF train station car park, then head towards the historic center on foot for 5 minutes.
Are the Pech terraces accessible with children?
The Pech terraces and its interpretation trail do not present any particular difficulties. The interpretation panels provide educational content on construction techniques and testimonies of life in the past.
