This large circuit which links the GR65 to the GR653 takes you through the Gers, passing in particular by Auch, Lavardens, Castéra-Verduzan, Valence sur Baïse, Condom, La Romieu, Sainte-Mère, Lectoure, Fleurance, Montestruc and Montaut-les- Slots.

Features

  • Length: 165 km
  • Maximum altitude: 270 m
  • Minimum altitude: 70 m
  • Elevation: 3 m
  • Duration: 7 days (possible in 6 days)
  • Difficulty: medium
  • Markup: yes
  • Departure and arrival: Auch

The course

Stages and points of interest

Departure from Auch

On the paths of the Gers, you will cross the city of Auch, capital of Gascony but also Grands Sites Occitanie labeled Cities and Countries of Art and History. By taking the Claude Desbons promenade, you can see the St. Mary's Cathedral, it is one of the last and richest Gothic cathedrals in France. Inside, many treasures are to be discovered!

Lavardens and its castle

À Lavardens, village classified "Most beautiful villages in France" , let yourself be seduced by the charm of the old mills and panoramic viewpoints. Visit its impressive XNUMXth and XNUMXth century chateau overlooking the Gers countryside, its XNUMXth century church and medieval alleys.

Castéra-Verduzan, the thermal baths

You will be won over by your stay in the heart of the spa town of Castera-Verduzan. … With the added bonus of beautiful views of the Pyrenees.

Valence-sur-Baïse and the Abbey of Flaran

From the marina of Valence-sur-Baise to its towpath, passing through the essential Cistercian Abbey of Flaran, you will have to take the time to stroll in this country house.

During your journey, you will also discover an exceptional collection of masterpieces by masters from the XNUMXth to the XNUMXth century for a wonderful journey into the heart of European artistic trends.

Condom, capital of Armagnac

À Condom, a city listed among the Great Occitan Sites under the title "Armagnac Abbey and Cities", go back to the days of the Armagnac trade by discovering its many private mansions. You can stroll along the Baïse or contemplate Saint-Pierre Cathedral.

La Romieu and its college

Direction La Romieu where you will discover the legend of Angéline's Cats. Do not miss the St Pierre collegiate complex, classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This site is a must for Gers tourism.

Lectoure and its belvedere on the Pyrenees

You will then cross the charming little village of Holy mother before you go to Lectoure labeled "Most beautiful detour in France" where you can appreciate the rich heritage of the city as well as the unmissable Gothic Cathedral of Saint-Gervais with its side, the Episcopal Palace.

Fleurance and its market

Want to deviate and leave the path for a few hours to stop at Fleurance ? Fleurance is a 4th century bastide. You can admire its typical market, its statues-fountains symbolizing the XNUMX seasons as well as its church in southern Gothic style. You will find in this country house the simple happiness of contemplating a sunset or, of rediscovering the stars which will make your nights in Gers as beautiful as your days ...

Montaut-les-Créneaux and its secret gardens

Then, your route will continue through the village of Montestruc and by that of Montaut-les-Créneaux, village perched on the top of a hill. In the heart of the walls of this castelnau, let yourself be guided, from the Romanesque church to the medieval castle, walking through its narrow streets with picturesque charming houses.

From there you will join Auch, The circle is complete !

For further…

Le Gers departmental committee of the French Hiking Federation will be able to advise you on how to organize your itinerary.

For hiking in the Gers

Way of Saint-Jacques de Compostelle

The GR653 between Arles and Somport passes through Auch, Montégut and the Gers with L'Isle-Jourdain as the gateway.

Hiking

Departing from several villages in Auch heart of Gascony, choose a hiking circuit (on foot or mountain bike) suited to your […]