Local Area:
The Gers is France's least developed and least populated Departement: land of d'Artagnan, Armagnac, foie gras, sunflowers, glorious summers and temperate winters. The area is full of interesting Bastide vilages, many of which are internationally renowned for their festivals: Vic Fezensac (9km away) hosts the 'Pentecote' festival in June and 'Tempo Latino', a Salsa Festival in July; Marciac hosts its International Jazz Festival and Mirande a Country and Western Music Festival also July. In addition there are regular local markets and night markets in Vic Fezensac. Auch, the wonderful medieval town crowned by its famous cathedral, the capital of Gers, is 30 minutes drive away.
Also nearby are lakes for watersports and many interesting historical sites such as the Roman Villa of Seviac and 12th century Cistercian Abbey Flaran.
Further Afield:
The Pyrenees are one and a half hours drive away - spectacular for touring, walking and picnics in the Summer and there is good skiing at La Mongie or Cautertets in the Winter. The famous surfing beaches of Biarritz, St Jean de Luz and Hossegor are about 2 hours drive, and a 2 and a half hour drive will take you to San Sebastian or Bilbao in Spain.
Travel:
The nearest international airports are Toulouse (British Airways, Air France, FlyBe), Biarritz or Pau (Ryanair). The nearest rail station is Agen, which is 5 hours from Paris, or Lille.
Golf:
There are two 18-hole golf courses nearby: Eauze (15 minutes drive) and Auch (30 minutes). The latter is a 4,365 metre Par 67 course with stunning views.
