The departments of Gers and Tarn-et-Garonne are located in South West France, situated midway between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea and to the north of the Pyrenean mountains. They make up two of the eight departments of the Midi-Pyrénées Region.
The renowned area of Gascony or "La Gascogne" forms the heart of the two departments. Rolling hills and uncluttered landscapes, clean rivers and lakes, fine architecture and excellent regional cuisine make this area ideal for a peaceful, stress-free lifestyle. What is more, the surf beaches of the Atlantic coast or the calm waters of the Mediterranean are less than 3 hours drive away.
Climatically, the area is pulled between the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea and the high mountains of the Pyrénées. The winters are mild and wet and the summers long and hot. The region enjoys a healthy climate and some of the purest air quality in Europe.
The majority of the surface area is agricultural. Large, colourful, sunflower fields abound in summer and fruit and vegetables are plentiful; also of note is the foie gras, reputedly the best in France.
Although not a big wine-producing area, there is some local production and Condom is the capital of the world-renowned Armagnac-producing region. Armagnac is produced using the same methodology as Cognac and will improve for many decades after bottling. Local specialities such as "Floc de Gascogne", and "Pousse Rapiere" are also produced and drunk as aperitifs.
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Tiny hamlets, sleepy villages, hill towns, and farmhouses are scattered over the varied countryside. There are numerous "Bastides", (for example Cologne and Saint-Clar-de-Lomagne) fortified towns and villages, built in strategic positions by both the French and the English, and which date from the Hundred Years War (1337-1453). Their arcades provide shade from the summer heat and the ancient half-timbered houses or "Colombages" make them attractive to visit and charming to live in. |
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The famous pilgrimage trail to Santiago de Compostelle in northern Spain passes through the area and La Romieu, with its 12th century collegiate church, Lectoure, with fantastic views from the hillside, and Auvillar with its beautiful circular market hall, are just some of the interesting places on its route. There are stunning views of the Pyrénées. |
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Property in Gascogne comes in many shapes and sizes, not to mention conditions. Properties for renovation do still exist, but have become rarer due to the strong demand over the past few years. Prices, depending on their condition, range from 75,000 euros to 150,000 euros and upwards. However, sympathetically restored properties are available in urban and rural settings; they are very popular and tend to sell extremely quickly for prices starting from 200,000 euros.
In the countryside, large country houses with guest accommodation and substantial grounds can be found from 350,000 to 600,000 euros. Smaller properties in the country are often available from about 200,000 euros. |
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In villages or small towns prices for a fully renovated townhouse (3-5 bedrooms) with terrace can be found from 150,000 to 300,000 euros. Restored farmhouses with a swimming pool and /or tennis court are priced from 450,000 to 750,000 euros and upwards. Often the outbuildings and barns have been converted to be used as gîtes or chambres d'hôtes. Land is generally available with all country properties, although village houses tend to have only small gardens or terraces. |
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At the top end of the market, the Gers is rich in magnificent châteaux and maisons de maître, often with large landscaped gardens and parklands. Such properties range in price from 750,000 euros up to several million euros depending on their size, condition etc.
Communications are good with motorways to the north and south and easy access to the TGV network. There are international airports at Toulouse, Bordeaux and Carcassonne and the new budget airlines are making travel, from the UK in particular, easier and cheaper all the time.
Gascony, due to its excellent location, climate and ease of access is now becoming an increasingly popular destination and, while remaining reasonable, is experiencing rising property prices across all sectors of the market. |
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