Ariège

The Ariège department lies on the northern slopes of the Pyrenees mountains in southern France, and its center is the small town of Foix. It is known for prehistoric caves with wall paintings (such as the Niaux cave), historic Cathar castles, and unspoiled mountain nature. Its economy is based mainly on mountain livestock farming, forestry, and nature- and archaeology-based tourism, with no major industry present. Ariège is one of the least populated and lowest-income departments in France, with a low cost of living, suitable for those interested in hiking, caving, and a rural lifestyle.

Foix, Pamiers, Saint-Girons

• Université Toulouse Jean Jaurès – Antenne de Foix - A small campus affiliated with the University of Toulouse.

Foix and Pamiers are small, quiet, and very safe towns. Crime rates are very low.

Transport includes TER Occitanie trains and liO buses. Access to Toulouse is easy.