The Gers (continued) 
In recent years property prices have been on a steady incline as more and more buyers both from France and abroad realise that the quality of life combined with the open air and value for money properties, makes for a truly attractive all round investment. Properties here are low compared to many parts of France but this is expected to change, as the area and bargains are just starting to be discovered and so demand is increasing.

At the heart of the Gers is the capital Auch, steeped in history and home to the swashbuckler D’Artagnan.  In the old town you will find the tourist office situated in a beautiful 15th century timber framed building and next to that is the cathedrale St-Marie and the 14th century 40 metre high Armagnac tower, which was the Archbishops prison and symbolised the power of the authorities of the day. If you are feeling fit head up to the great staircase, which has 234 steps! But once you have reached the top you will be rewarded with stunning views of the Pyrenees.

The next town to visit is Condom en Armagnac and in the past was the regional centre for making and shipping Armagnac down the River Garonne and then on to Bordeaux. Condom has a huge Cathedral, which dominates the town centre. There are a number of excellent restaurants and a good selection of shops and a twice-weekly market.

The Romanesque architecture and pigeonniers is a prominent feature of the Gers together with the Bastide villages. One of the most well known of these villages can be found west of Condom in a tiny village called Larressingle, which dates back to the 13th century, and has a fortified keep a Romanesque church and several restored old houses. As you approach it feels and looks more like a castle and you can get a real sense of the past as you wind your way through the little alleyways. Whilst there, why not relax for a while and enjoy the atmosphere outside the little café sampling the delicious crepes.

Nearby at Serviac is a Gallo roman villa complete with many beautiful mosaics and for those of you looking for somewhere to stay there is a gite there too.  Take a moment to view the scenery it is a breathtaking and peaceful spot.

Slightly further north lies a truly beautiful Bastide village called Fources, arguably the most attractive and impressive of the plus beaux villages.  As you approach the village you will notice the Renaissance Chateau on the river Auzoue that has been converted into a hotel. And as you walk further into the “horseshoe” shaped heart of the village you will find a tourist office, bars, museums and an antique shop as well as somewhere to sit under the trees and enjoy the ambience and architecture.

If Jazz is what you like then the famous yearly jazz festival in Marciac must be experienced. The festival takes place in the main square in the month of August.  World famous jazz musicians come to play their instruments and sing from all around the world. There is a museum open all year explaining the history of the festival and showing you clips and photographs of the greats in action from Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington and the like. The whole village is buzzing with great sounds and the smell of delicious food, just pull up a chair order yourself a drink and take in the atmosphere.

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