Maximum Elevation:
2,690 m above sea level (m.a.s.l.)
Maximum Vertical Gain/Loss:
+2,500 m / -2,500 m
Ariège, France
6 days, 5 nights
Dates To Be Defined
Running experience
From $3,625 USD
Ranging daily from 10 to 16km
Maximum Elevation:
2,690 m above sea level (m.a.s.l.)
Maximum Vertical Gain/Loss:
+2,500 m / -2,500 m
We look for new perspectives within cultures and communities in remote places that exist outside of modern societal structures which are focused only in progress and gains.
Before our commute to Gaudiès, we will gather at out friend Hugo’s cafe, Minifundj. Hands down, the best coffee in town.
After taking time to arrive and settle, we will meet at Zero Neuf’s gorgeous garden for a restorative yoga practice with a panoramic view of the high Pyrénées mountains.
Later we will gather in our accommodations for a home cooked welcome dinner prepared by our host, Joss.
Accomodation: Zero Neuf – Twin or triple share
Lunch & Dinner: Included
We kick off the day with an early start, diving into a meditation session and enjoying a wild swim right in front of the lodge in the L’Hers river.
After a cozy homemade breakfast, we come together for our first run, where we’ll get acquainted with trail running in the area. This 6 km loop starts from our house, taking us over rolling farmlands and along the L’Hers River.
In the afternoon, we will take time to rest and recharge. Solenne will be on hand for impromptu stretching on the grass, or we can simply take time to settle in before dinner.
Accomodation: Zero Neuf – Twin or Triple share
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: Included
On this day we embark on a truly memorable trek. The trail will take us through untouched forest and up to what will be our home for the next two nights. An all day hike up steep and uneven terrain, will take us to our home, Refuge du Fourcat. This refuge perched high above 2,000 m overlooks three small lakes, and those that wish can have the opportunity to swim in their waters.
During this part of our adventure, we will be carrying our own belongings up to the refuge, so please remember to pack smartly and lightly, and be sure to use a suitable hiking bag.
Elevation Gain: 4,000 ft / 1,120 m gain.
Accomodation: Shared occupancy in a mountain refuge – Bunk style
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: Included
Today, we immerse ourselves in life above 2,000 meters above sea level, enveloped in captivating tales and anecdotes shared by the refuge’s guardian, who treks up the same trail we traversed yesterday to supply our meals. Up here, the weather dances before your eyes, a spectacle of fleeting beauty.
For those inclined, a gentle walk around the lake awaits, followed by a refreshing swim. Alternatively, indulge in board games, yoga on the deck, or surrender to an afternoon nap. Today is all ours to embrace the unhurried pace of self-discovery.
Accommodation: Shared occupancy in a mountain refuge – twin or bunk style.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: Included
We will hike back down the valley, taking in the astonishing views on our way back down. We will arrive at the historic village of Val-De-Sos, where we’ll enjoy lunch. Afterward, we’ll journey back to Gaudiès for farewell dinner and our concluding yoga session.
Accommodation: Zero Neuf – twin or triple share.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: Included
In the morning we’ll gather for a final run and share a farewell breakfast to mark the conclusion of our journey.
Breakfast: Included
Shuttle to Airport or City Centre included
SPECIAL GUEST
Mirna Valerio defies singular categorization; she embodies a multitude of roles and passions. An ultrarunner, adventurer, writer, former educator, mother, and trained singer, Mirna’s vibrant energy and infectious laughter permeate any space she occupies, reflecting her profound zest for life. Her diverse experiences and unwavering enthusiasm illustrate her boundless passion for embracing all that life has to offer. Through her advocacy of diversity and inclusion in outdoor spaces, Mirna continues to inspire individuals worldwide to challenge stereotypes and pursue their passions with unwavering determination.
To connect with Mirna, you can find her on Instagram as @themirnavator
Our team
George Bauer is a Melbourne-raised runner who now lives in the Highlands of Scotland, fulfilling a dream to explore single track trails from his doorstep. George’s inspiration comes from the vast and varied experiences that running has brought him.
He is a project designer focused on creating community through his love of plant-based food, and the exciting ways in which we can exercise the body and mind.
You can find him on Instagram at @__georgebauer
Solenne, the trail is a true revelation, and combines her wish to exercise and also recharge her batteries. She is studying a diploma of French mountain guiding and supervises activities such as hiking, running and yoga.
“Running yoga is a wonderful process to practice and I’m excited to share it with the group”.
To connect with Solenne, you can find her on Instagram as @la_marmotte_eveillee
Join us for a meticulously crafted experience tailored for runners who savor the journey at a gentler pace, inviting you to forge a deeper connection with nature. With our Special Guest, the renowned Mirna Valerio, known for her empowering approach to running, this retreat promises a welcoming environment where slow runners can thrive. As you traverse the picturesque landscapes of the Ariège region, from the rivers to the soaring mountain peaks, every step is an opportunity to soak in the beauty of the Pyrénées and embrace the beauty of the natural world.
For nights 1, 2, and 5, your accommodation awaits at Zero Neuf, a beautifully transformed 1800s riverside farmhouse nestled in the heart of the village of Gaudies.
Nights 3 and 4 at the mountain refuge offer twin or bunk-style accommodation, providing a cozy rest. Positioned at an elevation of over 2000 meters, the refuge offers a mesmerizing view of three small lakes.
*Optional
In July, the Ariège region experiences pleasantly warm and sunny weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor activites such as running amidst its picturesque landscapes. Daytime temperatures typically range from 20ºC to 30ºC (68ºF to 86ºF), providing comfortable conditions for exploring the lush valleys and mountain trails. However, its worth nothing that temperatures can occasionally climb higher, reaching up to 35º C (95ºF) on particularly hot days. Evenings tend to be cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 10ºC to 15ºC (50ºF to 59ºF), offering a refreshing reprieve after the day’s adventures. Overall, July in the Ariège region offers perfect conditions for enjoying the natural beauty of the area while embracing the warmth of summer.
INCLUDED:
NOT INCLUDED:
We’re looking for new dates for this incredible experience to happen.
Thank you for your interest in our Running & Hiking experiences.
French Summer for The Slow Runner experience is coming out soon with new dates,
please join the waiting list for updates
From November 24th
to December 2nd, 2025
15% OFF in all our experiences
Discount Code: BLACKWEEK15
*Promotion limited to 5 discount codes per experience and
cannot be combined with any other discounts or promotions.
From November 25
to December 2nd, 2024
15% OFF in all our experiences
Discount Code: ALBLACKWEEK
*Promotion limited to 5 discount codes per experience and
cannot be combined with any other discounts or promotions.
Compártenos cualquier duda o pensamiento sobre la experiencia. Queremos que vivas la mejor experiencia con nosotros, así que te contestaremos lo más pronto posible.
Please share any question or thought about this experience. We really want you to join the adventure, so we’ll come back to you as soon as possible.
