CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING: EASTERN PYRENEES

Day 1
Morning transfer from Toulouse airport (1.45-hour drive) to the Hotel Terminus in Ax-Les-Thermes. Please note that there are no organised group activities or briefings today, enabling people to use alternative flights or take the train to Ax.

Day 2 - 7
Guided or Independent Cross-country skiing. This trip is designed to be totally flexible, to accommodate the desires of the group and to make the most of the snow conditions. The week usually includes 2 days at Chioula and 3 days at Beille, and leaves one day free (day 5, see below). We intend to be on the slopes by 10.00 am and aim to finish by 4.30pm. You do not need to be on the go all the time, as both areas have cafes for a rest. There will be a full trip briefing at 0830 on the morning of Day 2 followed by a trip to the ski hire shop.
The Plateau de Beille is undoubtedly the best cross-country ski area in the Pyrenees. There are 70km of pistes between 1800m and 2000m winding their way along the plateau and above the tree line. Every corner offers a stunning view of the high peaks of Andorra. By the car park there is an excellent café / restaurant with a south facing terrace, providing us with the perfect place to watch the sun setting over the horizon. There are also dedicated tobogganing and dog sledding areas. Beille is a 40 minutes drive from Ax.
The Domain du Chioula offers us 60km of beautiful pistes between 1240m and 1650m. The skiing here is through ancient beech forests and wide-open valleys. In the centre of the resort is a charming mountain refuge that serves up hearty lunches and refreshments making it very easy to spend a few hours soaking up the winter sun from a reclined deck chair. There is also a café next to the car park with an unrivalled mountain view. Chioula is a 20 minutes drive from Ax.
Both areas have marked Snowshoeing and walking trails which are very easy to follow without a guide if you fancy a change from the skiing. Snowshoes and gaiters can be borrowed locally. (BD)
Day 5 (Thursday) is a free day to do as you please. Ax-les-Thermes is linked to the downhill ski area of Ax-Bonascre (see optional activities on Trip Info page). Alternatively the largest downhill ski area in Andorra is only 40 minutes away by bus and you could even do some duty free shopping while you are there. Ax is a pleasant town to relax in and there is a health spa and massage service to help you do so. Those wanting a bit of culture could take the train to Foix (30 minutes), a medieval town dominated by a triple towered castle. If you want to get into the heart of the mountains, you could join in the daily backcountry snowshoe walk organised by the local guide's office.

Day 8
Hotel Terminus, Ax-Les-Thermes. Morning transfer to Toulouse airport.