France, Ariege, View north from point 1875m over Upper Valley Ariege with Pic d' Auriol (cent) 2695m (8826ft) Taken in Febuary.

France, Ariege, View north from point 1875m over Upper Valley Ariege with Pic d' Auriol (cent) 2695m (8826ft) Taken in Febuary.

France, Ariege, Town of St Girons, Municipal fountain on traffic island. Water from high pressure hose allowed to create an icy spectacle.

France, Ariege, Town of St Girons, Municipal fountain on traffic island. Water from high pressure hose allowed to create an icy spectacle.

Forest beside Chateau Usson in Autumn colours.

Chateau Foix on hilltop above town with tree covered hillside beyond. Built on 7th C. fortification and known to date from the 10th C. now houses the Musee d Ariege.

Chateau Foix on rocky hilltop above town. Built on 7th century fortification and known to date from the 10th century. Now houses the Musee d Ariege.

Grotte du Mas d Azil drive through cave. North entrance.

Chateau de Montsegur. Carved stone erected to the memory of 200 members of the Cathar church burnt at the stake in March 1244 A.D.

Chateau de Roquefixade Ruined castle on cliff-top overlooking village of Roquefixade. Site of refuge for the Cathars during the Albigensian Crusade.

Chateau d Usson. Ruined castle dating from the eleventh century one of the last strongholds of the beseiged Cathars. Set in rocky mountain landscape.