Ax-les-Thermes Rétro Folies

The Rétro Folies of Ax-les-Thermes, when vintage meets the Pyrenees

Every year in May or June, the spa town of Ax-les-Thermes gets into the rhythm of the Rétro Folies, an event dedicated to flea markets, vintage items, and retro culture. This original event goes off the beaten path of classic car boot sales to offer a selection of antique objects, vintage furniture, records, posters, and curiosities from past decades, in a unique Pyrenean setting combining ski resorts, thermal springs, and mountain architecture.

Ax-les-Thermes, a spa and sports resort in the Ariège Pyrenees

Ax-les-Thermes (09110) is a commune in Ariège with about 1,300 inhabitants, located at an altitude of 715 meters in the Ariège valley. Classified as a spa town since 1942, the city is renowned for its 80 sulfurous springs whose temperatures vary from 18 to 78°C. The famous Bassin des Ladres, freely accessible in the town center, offers visitors a thermal bath at 38°C in the open air. In winter, Ax-les-Thermes is also a ski resort thanks to the Ax 3 Domaines area, accessible by cable car from the town center and offering 80 kilometers of slopes between 1,400 and 2,400 meters above sea level. 1.5 hours from Toulouse and 2.5 hours from Barcelona, Ax-les-Thermes is a Pyrenean tourist crossroads.

A flea market with a retro and festive spirit

The Rétro Folies distinguish themselves from classic flea markets by their cultural focus and festive atmosphere. Exhibitors, vintage enthusiasts, and collectors offer carefully selected items: furniture from the 1950s to the 1980s, Formica tableware, old appliances, vinyl records, advertising posters, vintage clothing, metal and bakelite toys. The event attracts customers passionate about retro aesthetics, looking for authentic pieces to decorate their homes or complete their collections.

Ax-les-Thermes in warm season: a favorable context

Taking place in May or June, the Rétro Folies benefit from the mildness of the Pyrenean spring. Ax-les-Thermes, which sees its tourist numbers increase significantly with the arrival of good weather, offers a lively and welcoming setting for this event. Visitors can combine flea market shopping with a dip in the thermal pools, a hike on the Pyrenean trails, or discovering the heritage of this multifaceted spa town.

Practical Information

The Rétro Folies of Ax-les-Thermes take place in May or June in the town center or on a square in Ax-les-Thermes. Free entry for visitors. Information from the Ax-les-Thermes town hall or the tourist office.