Holiday rentals Gers

Three iconic sites to discover in the Gers

The Gers is home to some of the jewels of France’s heritage, from churches listed as World Heritage Sites to châteaux overlooking the countryside. These three sites recount a thousand years of Gascon history, from the Romanesque to the Late Gothic periods, and are unmissable stops during a holiday in the department.

1. Sainte-Marie Cathedral in Auch

The Gothic cathedral in Auch stands in the heart of the Gers prefecture, recognisable by its majestic façade and slender proportions. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela, it bears witness to five centuries of faith and craftsmanship. Inside, you’ll discover finely carved 16th-century wooden choir stalls, the work of master cabinetmakers, and stained-glass windows by Arnaud de Moles, whose warm hues illuminate the nave. These windows depict biblical scenes with a delicacy remarkable for the period. A guided tour helps you understand the architectural details and religious symbols that adorn each side chapel.

2. Château de Lavardens

Perched on a hill overlooking the village of Lavardens, this medieval and Renaissance castle presents an imposing silhouette that can be seen from afar. Listed as one of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages of France’, Lavardens retains the authenticity of its cobbled streets and old houses. The castle itself, with its massive towers and mullioned windows, exudes the power of the Gascon lords of yesteryear. From the terrace, the view stretches out over the fields and copses of the Gascon countryside in all its splendour. The château regularly hosts exhibitions of contemporary art, blending historic stone with modern creativity.

3. Flaran Abbey

In Valence-sur-Baïse, the Cistercian Abbey of Flaran bears witness to the meditative spirituality of the 12th century. Its refined Romanesque architecture, characterised by simple lines and harmonious proportions, reveals the essence of the Benedictine rule. The remarkably well-preserved quadrangular cloister invites contemplation beneath its vaulted galleries. The abbey church retains its original austerity, free from superfluous ornamentation. Now the Gascogne Heritage Centre, the abbey houses collections that trace the region’s daily life, agriculture and traditions. The historic gardens round off the visit by bringing to life the monks’ agricultural and medicinal practices.

These three stops ensure that any holiday in a holiday let in the Gers is a journey back in time, from the Middle Ages to the living heritage of today.

The ideal time of year to book a holiday rental in the Gers

Each season transforms the landscape of the Gers and offers travellers a distinct atmosphere. The Gers department, with its rolling hills, vineyards and stone villages, reveals itself in different ways depending on the time of year.

Spring brings the Gers countryside to life. The almond and cherry trees are in bloom, the meadows turn green again, and the temperatures become mild. It’s the ideal season to explore the country lanes on foot or by bike, without the sweltering heat of July. Families love this time of year for its longer days and mild climate.

Summer sees holiday rentals in the Gers fill up. The long, sunny days are perfect for enjoying terraces, swimming pools and outdoor activities. The villages come alive with Provençal markets, local festivals and wine tastings. The nights remain pleasant, perfect for evening strolls. It is also the peak tourist season, with all the liveliness that brings.

Autumn paints the Gers in warm colours. The grape harvest is in full swing in the vineyards, whilst châteaux and museums welcome visitors in a more peaceful atmosphere than in July. Temperatures remain mild, ideal for drives or horse rides. Food lovers will find this season offers a particular culinary richness.

Winter brings a sense of calm to the department. Although temperatures drop, winter in the Gers remains mild and dry. Holiday rentals offer cosy retreats where you can savour local specialities and enjoy the tranquillity of the sleepy countryside. It is the season for contemplative walks and cultural discoveries away from the crowds.

A holiday rental in the Gers remains the ideal choice whatever the season. It offers the flexibility to tailor your stay to the rhythm of the countryside and local events, whilst guaranteeing the comfort of a real home away from home.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in the Gers

The Gers invites you to step out of your accommodation and discover a region where gastronomy, spiritual history and wine-growing traditions shape every day. These three activities embody the essence of the region and are perfect for food lovers and walkers alike in search of meaning.

1. Visits to estates and Armagnac tastings

Armagnac is much more than just a brandy: it is the history of the Gers distilled into a single glass. The estates open their doors to show how white grapes are transformed into this amber nectar, from distillation through to years of ageing in oak barrels. You’ll understand why, since the Middle Ages, this region has been producing a brandy that connoisseurs consider to be one of the finest in the world.

The owners are happy to share their production secrets and offer guided tastings, often accompanied by local produce. It is this immersion in the expertise of the Gers that makes any stay truly memorable.

Address: Gers (32).

2. Hiking along the Way of St James (GR 65)

The GR 65 crosses the Gers towards Spain, offering manageable stages and landscapes that alternate between rolling hills, stone villages and unobstructed horizons. Walking this thousand-year-old route means meeting other pilgrims, stopping off at village inns and savouring the slow pace of a proper holiday.

You don’t have to walk the full 800 kilometres: a single day’s walk is enough to savour the special atmosphere of the GR 65 and return to your gîte or holiday let with tired legs and a light heart.

Address: Gers (32).

3. Discover the ‘marches au gras’ and Gascon cuisine

The ‘marches au gras’ in the Gers are unmissable events where producers and food lovers come together at the crack of dawn. Here you’ll find foie gras, confits, duck breast and all the ingredients of Gascon cuisine. These markets are also lively hubs where people discuss quality, local produce and family recipes.

Beyond the market stalls, the cuisine of the Gers can be savoured in restaurants and at producers’ premises, which host group meals or tasting sessions. It’s an opportunity to understand how a region transforms its local produce into culinary art.

Address: Gers (32).

Our guests’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday rental in the Gers

As well as the region’s charm, everyday comfort makes all the difference during a holiday in a rental property. Travellers who choose a holiday rental in the Gers place just as much importance on practical facilities as they do on the quality of the welcome or proximity to attractions. Here are the facilities our guests particularly appreciate for making the most of their holidays.

• Fully equipped kitchen: cooking your own meals allows you to sample local produce from the market and extend the region’s culinary delights at lunchtime.
• Air conditioning: in summer, when temperatures rise, this comfort is invaluable for cooling down after a day of sightseeing.
• Terrace or garden: dining al fresco or enjoying a coffee whilst taking in the views of the Gers countryside enriches every moment of your stay.
• Washing machine: essential for families and longer stays, this facility simplifies the logistics.
• Efficient heating: from the mid-season onwards, good heating makes a world of difference to indoor comfort and allows you to enjoy your holiday home without any hassle.
• Wi-Fi: stay connected to look up tips, share photos or work remotely from time to time, without sacrificing your holiday.
• Private parking: exploring the Gers at your own pace means having your own car available without stress or extra costs.
• Storage space: cupboards, chests and shelves let you live stress-free without leaving your belongings lying about.
• Children’s facilities: a cot, high chair or indoor toys give parents peace of mind and ensure the accommodation is suited to the needs of the little ones.

A well-planned holiday rental is tailored to the type of holiday you’re planning, the number of people and your holiday budget. It’s this perfect fit that transforms a simple place to stay into a true haven of relaxation.

What is the average price of a holiday rental in Gascony?

Holiday let rates in the Gers vary depending on the size and standard of the accommodation. For a small studio or a one-bedroom flat, you can generally expect to pay between 40 and 70 euros per night. A family-sized property with three or four rooms tends to cost between 70 and 130 euros per night. More spacious houses, or those offering premium facilities such as a private swimming pool, rent for between 130 and 200 euros per night, or even more depending on the amenities.

Several factors influence these price ranges. Holiday accommodation near medieval villages or the wine estates of the Gers commands slightly higher rates. The length of stay also plays a part: discounted rates for weekly or monthly stays significantly reduce the daily cost compared to a single night’s stay. The quality of the finishes, the view and access to leisure facilities (swimming pool, terrace with a view) also influence the price.

Seasonality plays a major role. Summer and school holiday periods see the highest rates. Spring and autumn, the grape harvest season and the time for local festivals, offer attractive prices. Winter often offers the best value for money. To find the best balance, it’s a good idea to compare several options for the same duration, read reviews from previous guests and book well in advance to access a wider selection of properties.