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In the heart of the hilly and sunny slopes of Bas Armagnac, the town of Nogaro, famous for its racetrack, hosts a fun and unique family activity: the Armagnac Vélorail.
From March 30 to the end of the All Saints' Day holidays, go on an adventure on this unusual machine to discover the landscapes of this territory!
What is the vélorail?
It's like riding a five-seater pedal boat but moving on an old railway line!
On the way for the 12 km round trip!
After the safety instructions, the station master sounds the departure. The handrails then leave one after the other 50 meters apart. Two people are at the pedaling station simultaneously while 3 others at the back admire the vineyards and countryside that this region is famous for. On arrival, you can rest and have a drink while the rail bikes are maneuvered for the return trip. On the way out and back, you will have to cross 6 level crossings. Equipped with electrical assistance, the handrails allow you to complete the 12 km route (2×6 km) in approximately 1h30.
The activity and the course are very fun, with secure level crossings to cross. We pass near cornfields, under the woods... For young and old, it's an original way to discover the Gers landscapes!
The Armagnac rail bike leaves from Nogaro station:
- During the Easter and All Saints holidays (all school zones): every day with 1 departure per day;
- Summer: 4 departures per day (Monday to Sunday) with a night departure at 20 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays in July and August;
- The rest of the year: 1 departure on Wednesdays, Saturdays and public holidays.
With the possibility of equipping yourself with a seat suitable for babies from 1 year old, the rail bike is an activity for the whole family, from grandparents to grandchildren.
Little advice : reservation is MANDATORY. The vélorail remains an original idea to spend a joyful and exotic moment!
The Vélorail is celebrating its 10th anniversary!
It was in 2014 that the Vélorail de l'Armagnac opened its doors to the public after work in 2013. And to celebrate this anniversary, the Nogaro tourist office has put together a special program for you!
- The little extra this year? Of the twilight walks to let yourself be captivated by the beauty of the landscapes at sunset;
- In June, a exposure on the history of the railway with photos of the old station, significant events, etc.;
- Occasionally, in June, the route will be extended by 1km, enough to prolong the pleasure;
- 5 watercolors natural sites “Un Grand Vert d’Armagnac” will be admired during your journey;
- For Halloween: 2 trains of fear will be set up for twice as much thrill;
- And finally, to give you the benefit of quizzes are organized on social networks!
Nogaro station
Created in 1875, the Armagnac railways are among the oldest in the department. In the past, they were used for passenger trains but also for freight trains until the early 2000s.
The line on which you may have the chance to cycle is located on a part of the 115 km long line that connected Port-Sainte-Marie, near Agen in the Lot-et-Garonne, to Riscle 13 kms from Nogaro.
While the section between Condom and Eauze has been downgraded, the one between Eauze and Riscle is no longer operated and offers you a 9km round trip around Nogaro.
From discovery to discovery ...
Coming to Nogaro also gives you the opportunity to discover the very diverse heritage and activities of Nogaro. La Collegiate Church of Saint Nicholas of Nogaro will surely seduce you with its XNUMXth century Romanesque frescoes century while the arenas of the early twentieth century will charm you.
Take a trip to Paul Armagnac circuit, well known to motorsport enthusiasts. Go hiking on the many hiking trails or on the path to Santiago de Compostela.
Around Nogaro, you will also have a wide choice of sites to visit such as the Espas castle, built on a motte at the end of the XNUMXth century, or the Tour de Termes d'Armagnac, a medieval site that has retained the imprint of the story.
La Palm grove of Sarthou in Bétous, a remarkable garden of exotic plants classified by the Ministry of Culture is also worth the detour.
Useful information
La rental of the draisine is 38 € from 2 to 5 seats. A reduced rate of €28 is possible under certain conditions for 2 people (except summer). You will find all the information on the official website of the Vélorail de l'Armagnac.
