Pyrenees Guide

Ax-les-Thermes is a town and commune of south-western France, in the département of Ariège, in the région of Midi-Pyrénées, at the confluence of the Ariège River with three tributaries, 26 mi. S.S.E. of Foix by rail. Pop. (1999) 1,441.

Ax (from Latin Aquae - water; French Thermes - hot springs), situated at a height of 2300 ft., is well known for its warm sulphur springs (77°–172° F.), of which there are about sixty. The waters, which were used by the Romans, are claimed to treat rheumatism, skin diseases and other maladies. The springs were developed in the mediaeval period under the orders of Saint Louis to treat soldiers returning from the Crusades afflicted with leprosy. From the 19th century, a spa tourism industry grew up.

The town now benefits from spa tourism, skiing and the town casino. Its proximity to Andorra enables cross-border shopping.