1. How do I get there?

You have a number of options. The nearest large airport is Blagnac, in Toulouse, and this is where you will arrive if you are coming from the U.S. or much of the U.K. If flying from the U.S. your route will typically include a change at a European hub airport such as Amsterdam, Madrid, London or Paris. A smaller, regional airport is located to the east, in Carcassonne, convenient if you are flying from Ireland or London, Stansted.

From Scotland, you have the option of taking the ferry from Rosyth to Zeebrugge and driving south through France (this journey takes 2-3 days but is wonderful if you take the back roads and want to see the French countryside). There are also several other ferry ports on the French coast from which you could drive.

2. Will I need a car during my stay?

Definitely! You may pick up a rental car at the airport in Toulouse(Avis or Europcar) or Carcassonne Argus. For more information about travel to and transportation within the Ariege region see: Ariege.com.

3. Once I arrive at the airport, how do I get to Tardibail?

It is about a one-hour drive south of Toulouse (about 40 miles/80km). See map for directions. Your best option is to rent a car at the airport and drive south. From the airport, follow the D902 in the direction of Montpellier, then take the A624 followed by the A620. Exit for Foix/Montpellier at Junction 61, then take the E80, the A61 and the A66. The A66 becomes the E09/N20.

Take the exit for Pamiers, onto the D119. Very soon there is a sharp left turn onto the Route de Foix, which branches immediately - take the D11b (Avenue de Benagues) and the Chemin de Tardibail (yes, it has its own road!) is about the 5th road on the right. See local map.

From Carcassone: from the airport, turn right on the D119 towards Montreal. After about 10 kms you will come to Montreal and after another 10 kms you will arrive at a roundabout where you should take the D119 towards Fanjeaux. Follow the road up the hill to Fanjeaux and then stay on the D119 for a further 20 kms until you get to Mirepoix. At Mirepoix, take the D119 towards Pamiers and see instructions above.

4. Are towels and bed linens provided?

All towels and bedding are provided as well as pool towels. Beds will be made up for you and provisions for breakfast on your first day can be provided if you let us know your requirements.

5. What does the rent include?

Gas and electricity are included in the cost of the let, as is a cleaning service after your departure. We expect the house to be left in a clean and tidy state, as you will find it when you arrive.

6. Where do I pick up the keys for the house?

Details will be given to you when you sign a rental contract with us.

7. Is the pool heated? Is it safe for young children?

The pool is unheated and is comfortable to use during the months of June, July, August and September. There is a shallow end (3 feet, 1 metre) but it slopes away sharply to the deep end (about 8 feet, 2.5m) so children should be supervised at all times. The pool will not be open in April and May, and October can be a bit chilly.

8. Are dogs allowed to stay at Tardibail?

By pre-arrangement plus a non-refundable pet fee of $50 / £25.

9. What is the weather like?

Weather patterns are often stable for 3 or 4 days and it is generally hot in the summer and cold in the winter. Tardibail is situated quite close to the Pyrenees, where the weather often changes from valley to valley with, for example, a local thunderstorm in one and brilliant sunshine in the next and there can still be snow in April and May, but is at a lower altitude so generally has milder weather than in the mountains. Summer is often intensely sunny. Minimum average temperatures vary from 13-15°C in the morning and maximum temperatures are typically from 26-28°C (high 80s in°F).

9. Where can I ski? Are there thermal spas and hot springs nearby?

Have a look at the Ariege.com website for more information about skiing and snowboarding in this area and for information about hot springs or thermal spas.