thrill-seeking adventures.
Mountain biking: the ultimate sporting activity
Mountain biking in Belcaire: in the heart of the Cathar Pyrenees
Situated at an altitude of 1,000 metres, Belcaire is an ideal base for exploring mountain biking in an unspoilt natural environment. Nestled in the heart of the Pays de Sault, the village offers excellent access to vast areas perfect for mountain biking, set amongst forests, plateaus and panoramic views of the Pyrenees.
In the heart of Cathar country, the Aude en Pyrénées FFC Mountain Biking Area comprises five distinct yet complementary regions. Deep gorges, golden vineyards, shady pine forests and rolling green hills combine to create a varied and exceptional setting for mountain biking enthusiasts. With over 890 km of marked trails, this FFC mountain biking area is the largest mountain biking site in the Pyrenees.
Nine mountain bike trails start in the surrounding villages, two of which pass directly through the village of Belcaire, offering immediate access to the routes from the heart of the village. These trails are suitable for all levels, from leisurely rides to more challenging routes.
The route maps are available free of charge at reception and the Tourist Office, so you can easily plan your outings and set off to explore this unique area by mountain bike.
Every year, the Camurac Cycling Festival brings the trails to life over two days of sport and fun, open to everyone. This unmissable event invites people of all ages to discover mountain biking through guided rides, exploring local routes and sharing experiences. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience cycling in a different way, in a festive atmosphere that’s accessible to all.
Mountain bikes, electrically assisted mountain bikes and equipment for rent at the campsite.
Climbing in Belcaire
Sports enthusiasts or thrill seekers, take the height and climb the Pyrenean peaks. In the land of the mountains, Belcaire is the ideal place to practice climbing.
Whatever your level, beginner or confirmed and whatever your degree of technique, discover many climbing routes from the most direct to the most daring.
Several spots await you including the cliff of the Pic des Sarrasis. Limestone site, facing south and sheltered from the wind, it includes about fifteen lanes of 20 to 25 meters of rating 5b + to 7b.
For beginners, go through the Daniel Du Lac climbing gym. With a climbing surface of 680 square meters, the large room is composed of 2 sides with countless slopes and overhangs.
The room has more than forty channels from 4c to 8a+. This sports complex offers a safe and accessible environment for everyone to learn this sport with your family throughout the year.
thrills and pushing your limits
wonderful memories.
Hiking in Belcaire: trails in the heart of an unspoilt countryside
The village of Belcaire is surrounded by a network of trails that offer a different way to explore the mountains, with walks suitable for everyone. From forest paths and open plateaus to more rugged terrain, the routes offer a wonderful variety of landscapes all year round. Attack the Pyrenean reliefs thanks to the many trails from Belcaire such as the hike of the Pic des Rives which offers a magnificent panorama of the Pyrenean peaks and the peak of Bugarach. There are no fewer than six trails of varying difficulty on offer from Belcaire: the Palagnac loop, the Apiary loop, the Picou loop… Take part in the Pays de Sault Trail Run in May or the Ronde des Sapins in August, push yourself to the limit and reconnect with nature.
Walking here is a particularly enjoyable experience, thanks to the peaceful surroundings and the natural beauty of the Pays de Sault. Each route offers a different atmosphere, from the shade of the fir trees to the clearings and views of the surrounding hills.
Whether you’re setting off on a short stroll or a more strenuous hike, walking in Belcaire is an invitation to take your time and make the most of the surrounding countryside.
White-water sports in the Aude Gorges
Just a few kilometres from Belcaire, the Aude Gorges, near Axat, offer an exceptional playground for white-water enthusiasts. Against a spectacular backdrop of mountains and cliffs, the River Aude winds its way through the landscape, providing ideal routes for those seeking thrills in the heart of nature.
Rafting is the star attraction in this area. Suitable for families or groups of friends, depending on water levels and the route chosen, it allows you to navigate the river as a team, guided by qualified instructors. With rapids, calmer stretches and guaranteed bursts of laughter, the experience combines adventure and fun.
Other activities such as hydrospeed or canoeing and kayaking also offer a different way to explore the river, always amidst unspoilt, wild countryside.
The Aude Gorges at Axat are therefore a must-visit destination for a refreshing sporting adventure in the heart of nature.
come and enjoy the adventure!
