Plateau de Beille: Nordic skiing in winter, wide-open spaces in summer
Between Ax-les-Thermes and Tarascon-sur-Ariège, the Plateau de Beille is one of the great Nordic resorts of the Pyrenees in winter, and a playground for hikers and cyclists as soon as the snow has melted.
- Resort opened in1989
- Nordic trails1,800 – 2,000 m
- Snowshoeingabout 42 km
- Cycling climb15.8 km
A great Nordic resort
The Beille resort opened in 1989. Its cross-country trails lie between 1,800 and 2,000 m altitude, away from Alpine skiing: vast, calm spaces among forests and ridges.
There are also about 42 km of snowshoe routes, a biathlon stadium and a husky sledding school. For children as for those who do not want to go down slopes, it is another way to enjoy the snow.
Road access starts from Les Cabannes. Check the resort’s opening and the snow conditions before setting off.
Hiking and nature outings
As soon as the snow has melted, the plateau becomes a starting point for walks. The GR 10, which crosses the Pyrenees from east to west, goes through the Plateau de Beille, at the Col de Finestres (1,967 m).
In summer, the plateau also comes alive with scooters pulled by sled dogs. To choose a route suited to your level and the weather, call in at the Ax-les-Thermes tourist office or consult the map sites on the hiking page.
The climb from Les Cabannes
A steady, demanding climb, ending in a dead end at the resort. Figures taken from sites specialising in mountain passes: check your route before setting off.
The climb has sometimes been on the Tour de France route since 1998, with stage finishes. To string several passes together during a stay, see the road-cycling page.
About the Plateau de Beille
Where is the Plateau de Beille?
Between Ax-les-Thermes and Tarascon-sur-Ariège, in the upper Ariège valley. Road access starts from Les Cabannes, and the road ends on the plateau.
What altitude is the resort at?
The trails of the Nordic resort lie between 1,800 and 2,000 m altitude, and the cycling climb from Les Cabannes reaches about 1,790 m.
Can you come without cross-country skiing?
Yes: in winter, about 42 km of snowshoe routes are offered, as well as a husky sledding school. In summer, the plateau is a starting point for hikes, and the GR 10 goes through it.
Has the Tour de France already been to Beille?
Yes: the climb to the Plateau de Beille from Les Cabannes has sometimes been on the Tour de France route since 1998, with stage finishes.
A stay at the foot of the Plateau de Beille?
Rates and availability are shown live on the Airbnb listing. A question before booking? You can ask it there too.