Cultural
The gers
HIDDEN GEM
What we like about this area is that the residents are proud of the special art of omission. No highways, no traffic jams, no parking problems, (almost) no traffic lights, no air pollution, no big industry, no mass tourism, no crowds, no rush, no stress and no hassles. So what is it?
Beautiful, rolling landscapes, small picturesque villages, bastides, castles and abbeys, small country roads, vineyards, many sunflower fields, and a beautiful view of the Pyrenees.
Friendly and cordial residents who like to take the time for a chat. Cultural traditions and customs such as enjoying a delicious meal with friends. Unassuming people who like to play a game of pétanque.
Beautiful authentic regional products such as delicious wines, Armagnac, and duck delicacies and pastries. And of course the wonderful sunny climate.
SPARSELY POPULATED
Auch is the capital of the Gers. About 22,000 people live in that city. It is the birthplace of the musketeer d’Artagnan, from the famous book The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas.
Because this region is so sparsely populated, you really come here for the peace and quiet. And for discovering historic castles, medieval fortified towns, abbeys and extensive nature reserves. For example, visit one of the six Plus Beaux villages de France: Montréal du Gers, Larressingle, Fourcès, Sarrant, La Romieu and Lavardens.
So you can have a good time in the Gers.
L’Isle-Bouzon
Our village, L’Isle-Bouzon, is a tiny lively village where concerts, village festivals and communal dinners and lunches are organized. There is a beautifully restored wash house at the bottom of the village and discover the remains of a 13th century castle, its ramparts and its old church.
The local petanque court is opposite our house. The Jeu de boule court. We have played many tournaments there with our guests. Right now my husband Mark is still at the top of the list with the most points. Something has to be done about that, right? Will you play along and take up the challenge?
SAINT CLAR
In the center of this village, typical of Gascony, is the market hall where the local market is located, surrounded by the famous arcades of Lomagnole. You can also take a tour of the Bastide, the castelnau, the Public School Museum and the Garlic House.
DISCOVER:
Market on Thursday morning.
Recreation center
Bicycle rental at the tourist office
Center for horse riding
LECTOuRE
A few minutes from Domaine Lagarriere is the town of Lectoure. Discover centuries of history by, for example, booking a guided tour. Visit the centuries-old cathedral, the archaeological museum and the photo festival. Or do the Bleu de Lectoure workshop (history of this famous pastel).
DISCOVER:
The Friday morning market
The night market on Monday (summer)
Brocante village at the end of the main street
FLEURANCE
A lively town where you can visit the Bastide de Fleurance, the market hall and the Saint-Laurent church. The nearest golf club is also located here, where you can enjoy a 9-hole course and then enjoy lunch at the end.
DISCOVER:
Market on Tuesday and Saturday mornings
Restaurant Les Tables d’Urdens
Astronomy festival at the beginning of August
Cuivro’foliz in July
Cinema
BROCANTE MARKETS
In our area, flea markets and ‘vide-greniers’ take place at regular intervals. Some take place weekly, others only a few times a year.
And many villages sometimes organize a flea market. Look at posters on trees and lampposts. These often take place in parks or large car parks or squares.
You can read more information about the area here!
