Like all activities, hiking requires you to follow a few guidelines to ensure the best possible experience for yourself, others and the natural environment. Here are a few recommendations for a calm and successful outing on foot or by bike.
Depending on the weather conditions, access to certain massifs may be closed. Consult the map, which is updated daily, to help you plan your walk.
Choosing the right time to go hiking is a guarantee of success and pleasure. The trails are accessible all year round. But depending on the season, the weather can play tricks on you: thunderstorms, heat in summer, snow on the heights in winter... The ideal seasons for hiking are spring and autumn.
At higher altitudes, check local snow conditions in winter.
During the hunting season, wear visible clothing and make yourself known to hunters.
In July and August, temperatures quickly approach 40°C and the fire risk can be high, leading to massifs being closed. Before you leave, check the fire-risk map, which is updated daily, for any closures.
If you're out and about, you should also make sure that your accommodation is open, especially stopover gîtes. Most gîtes are open all year round, but a quick call in advance can be useful.
A water bottle: make sure you have plenty of water, depending on the outing you are planning. If water points are frequent, a water bottle or camel bag will not be too much, especially in very hot weather!
Please note that some fountains may be closed during periods of water restrictions.
A first-aid kit: don't forget to pack a small basic first-aid kit. See the first-aid kit for hikers.
A multi-purpose knife: very useful for picnics!
Protection from the sun: sunglasses, cap or headgear, sun cream, covering clothing. Protect yourself from heat, sunstroke and sunburn.
Rain is rare in Aude, but a sudden storm can spoil your experience... Bring a lightweight, compact rain jacket and pants. For mornings or evenings, pack some warm clothing. During hunting season, wear brightly colored clothing (ideally a fluorescent vest).
Choosing the right hiking backpack and assessing its capacity based on your profile and ambitions is crucial, especially if you're on a multi-day trek.
Opt for hiking shoes, preferably high-tops to protect your ankles from twists.
If possible, take your mobile phone with you, at least for emergencies (15, 18, or 112). Also, consider bringing a portable charger or an extra battery for long hikes.
Trails are marked, but we recommend carrying a map, compass, and route description. Downloading the GPX file onto a mapping or hiking app can also be very helpful for navigation!
Wear a helmet and high visibility vest. Mountain biking routes are shared with hikers and other users (cars, tractors, etc.). Slow down at crossings or in low-visibility areas and stop if necessary.
Consider bringing a trash bag to carry all your waste. Some energy bars or dried fruits for hunger pangs. Non-perishable foods (but not in the same pocket as insect repellent!). A whistle can also be useful in case of trouble.
During your walks, you’ll traverse natural areas rich in biodiversity but also fragile. Avoid picking flowers and plants. Stay on trails to limit trampling. Be discreet to avoid disturbing wildlife and keep your dogs close (in some particularly sensitive areas or near livestock, they must be leashed). And of course, carry out all your waste!
When trekking, travel light!
Service providers like La Malle Postale on the Cathar Trail collect your luggage each morning from your accommodation and deliver it to the next stop of your choice.
Guided Hikes
If you wish to hike safely while benefiting from personalized advice and the knowledge of a professional, consider hiring guides: mountain guides or Cathar Country guides, two networks of local professionals are available to assist you.
Bivouacking is generally tolerated (unless locally regulated) from 7:00 PM to 9:00 AM, with a ban on lighting campfires (Article L131-1 of the Forest Code).
