Top 10 free things to do in the Gers

The Gers is a nature destination, which has serious assets to offer to lovers of heritage, gastronomy, natural sites... It is a place conducive to a family stay, as much as to a sports road-trip or a getaway romantic couple. When we go on vacation, we sometimes look for good tips to save money, spend little to enjoy ourselves better or longer. Here are 10 free, simple but essential ideas for activities and good times !

Opening photo credit: AdobeStock / Nana

1 - Visit the villages of the Gers

The Gers is famous for its charming medieval villages such as Fourcès, Larressingle, la Romieu, Sarrant, Saint-Clar-de-Lomagne, Fleurance, Lavardens... Stroll through the narrow streets, admire the half-timbered houses and soak up the you of the authentic atmosphere of these preserved places. You wo n't spend a penny, but watch out for the torticollis!

2 - Go hiking in nature

The Gers is a true paradise for hiking enthusiasts. Walk the marked trails or explore the rolling hills of the Gers countryside. You will discover magnificent landscapes and an impressive biodiversity.

3 - Visit the Gers markets

The weekly or summer markets in the Gers are a real celebration of local products and crafts. Stroll through the colorful stalls, taste the cheeses, wines and regional specialties, and meet the passionate producers. The Lectoure and Auch markets are particularly worth a visit. If you don't buy anything it's free, but will you resist?

4 - Admire the religious architecture, abbeys, churches...

The Gers is home to many remarkable religious buildings. Visit Sainte-Marie Cathedral in Auch, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, or Flaran Abbey, a 12th century Cistercian abbey. These sites steeped in history offer an enriching cultural experience. Attention, some entrances are paying when there are exhibitions and events.

5 - Enjoy lakes and rivers

The Gers offers great opportunities for lovers of nautical activities. Swimming, canoeing, fishing or simply relaxing by the water, the area's lakes and rivers provide a refreshing break on hot summer days.

6 - Vineyard visits

The Gers is a renowned wine region , especially for its Armagnac. Take advantage of open cellars and free tastings at local wineries . This is the perfect opportunity to discover the unique flavors of Gers wines. Although visits are generally free, it is always a good idea to bring back a small bottle as a souvenir or to honor the work of the winegrowers and winegrowers.

7 - Participate in cultural events

The Gers offers a rich program of cultural events, such as concerts, art exhibitions, conferences and film screenings. Check with local tourist offices for free events not to be missed during your visit.

8 - Gaze at the stars!

The Gers is renowned for its clear night skies and unspoiled rural landscapes, making it an ideal location for stargazing. Find a place away from city lights, lie down and marvel at the beauty of the starry sky. Consult the program of the Ferme des étoiles in Fleurance, which also organizes an Astronomy Festival (access to the festival is not free but really economical).

9 - Visit farms, producers, artisans

The Gers is a very authentic land, you will find farms to visit, which offer you products from their production (paying, but it's food, you have to eat well ;)). Farms with animals, vegetable production farms, craftsmen with interesting skills to watch and sometimes even workshops!

10 - Do treasure hunts!

Do you know Geocaching? Some tourist offices organize riddle walks for children in their towns and in the countryside the most fun is to do geocaching from a specially dedicated smartphone application. You will choose a place and look for a “cache” using clues. According to the hunts, we learn things, we walk, it's fun and we get some fresh air!

BONUS: Take the Gers educational trails

The Gers has many natural sites of great interest, both for fauna and flora or even landscapes. As it is not always easy to understand the importance of these areas and to know what to observe, trails are set up by the municipalities. It's always a pleasant moment, meeting biodiversity, sometimes a small vernacular heritage.

The Gers offers a variety of free activities that will allow you to discover the natural beauty, history and culture of this region. Get ready to live interesting and entertaining experiences, without spending a penny during your visit to the Gers.

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