Gascony Region
Gascony is one of France's best-kept secrets. (In fact you will not find it as an area on maps). This rural area stretches from Toulouse in the east, south of the Garonne River to the foothills of the Pyrenees. The latitude allows for a sunny warm climate without the bustle and crowds of the Mediterranean coast.
The proximity of Gascony to Spain means it is influenced by touches of both French and Spanish cultures. The countryside is dotted with bastides and picturesque dovecotes. The villages in Gascony tend to be small and far apart.
- Pyrenees - a walkers and cyclists paradise, the start of the climb to the Col du Tourmalet on the Tour de France route is only an hour away.
- Auch, made famous by its well-known Musketeer "d'Atagnan". www.mairie-auch.fr
- Lourdes (approx 3/4hr) the pilgrimage city. www.lourdes-france.com
- Tarbes with its equestrian connection www.ville-tarbes.fr.
- Pau. Known as the Ville Anglais complete with Henry II Chateau,
stroll along the Promenade de Pyrenees for the best view of the mountains
in the area.
(Check out Pau's official website: www.ville-pau.fr for events throughout the year, including the famous Grand Prix. - Carcassone, the famous fortified city, www.carcassonne-tourisme.com
- Toulouse (approx 1.5hrs) www.ot-toulouse.fr.
Average Temperatures
