Out and About in the Gascony, Gers region of the south of France

This area of France is still relatively undiscovered by tourists and so provides a chance to relax and enjoy the ‘real france’.

Gazaupouy is situated 10Kms from the bustling market town of Condom which offers all amenities and a wide range of restaurants. Auch & Agen are larger towns some 25kms respectively.

The area is steeped in history with magnificent churches, chateaux & abbeys, fortified villages, lakes with sandy beaches are scattered around suitable for swimming and other water sports with rivers for fishing & canoeing. There are golf courses and facilities widely available for tennis, horse riding, cycling, and walking and of course, boules.

The wildlife is abundant with eagles, buzzards, owls, woodpeckers, deer and wild boar.

Most villages have summer fetes and visitors are always made most welcome.

Food and drink is of course the French national pastime and the Gers is famous for its excellent cuisine with local specialties including Pruneaux d’Agen, Floc de Gasgone armagnac, foie gras, saucissons and canard.

The region has uncrowded roads, wonderful views, good food and wine and is ideal for a relaxing holiday.

The region of Gascony refers to ancient territories which ceased to exist after the French Revolution. The region forms a triangle from the west of Toulouse, south of the Garonne River and down into the foothills of the Pyrenees.

England ruled the region of Gascony for 300 years, when Eleanor of Aquitataine married Henry II in 1154, and it was given to the English crown as part of her dowry. Direct rule continued until 1475, when the peace treaty was signed between Edward IV and Louis XI. Many of the bastide towns in Gascony were built on orders from England. One of the best known Gascons was Charles de Batz – or as we know him – D’Artagan. He was born at Chateau de Castlemore and went on to become Captain of the Kings Guards.

Gascony is one of the most agricultural and sparsely populated areas of France with long hot summers and mild winters. It is still untouched by heavy industry and mass tourism.

Condom cathedral, dominating the town centre. Also the Armagnac Museum & daily boat trips on the River Baise. Forces Round bastide town. Beautiful Square with good restaurants bars & antiques.
La Romieu imposing 14th century hill top collegiate
Lectoure Gallo-Roman city with plenty of shops and bars.
Flaran abbey. 12th century Cistercian monastry.
Larressingle 13th century fortified village.

Activities

Horse-riding at Escalans & Poudenas. Les Ecuries d’Armagnac at Valance sur Baise also offer hacks in the woods & hills (English spoken.)
Golf de Guinlet at Eauze. An 18 hole course set in a beautiful wooded area.
Mountain biking & road cycling. Various routes around the area.
Go karting, quad bikes, light aircraft & paintball at Caudecoste (nr Agen).

back to top

©www.gite-gers.com
freelance website designer what Another Web Design