Gascony Properties

The Gers is at the heart of Gascony, itself once part of England when Eleanor of Aquitaine married Henry of Anjou, later Henry II of England, at which point Aquitaine came under English rule. This led to a chain of events culminating in the Hundred Years War when Henry's successors tried to claim the throne of Franceand the French defended themselves and sought to reestablish their sovereignty. The 'bastides', fortified towns and villages in strategic positions, built by both the French and the English, date from this time. They are numerous and are well worth visiting to stroll under their cool arcades in the summer and to admire the ancient houses with their 'colombages' or half-timbering. One of the better known is Fources which was built by the English on a circular plan - it is also famous for its flower market. It is one of the most complete, as is Cologne. More peaceful visitors came in the form of pilgrims on the way the Santiago de Compostela in northern Spain. La Romieu, with 12th century collegiale, Lectoure - dominating its hillside and Condom, are just some of the interesting places en route.

Primarily agricultural territory, the Gers is sparsely populated and a truly beautiful part of South West France, unspoiled and largely as yet undiscovered by the British. The people, whilst being extremely proud of their traditions and ancestry, are not afraid to welcome visitors from other countries, be they tourists or house-buyers. The way of life is relaxed and the quality of life is extremely good. The climate is healthy and the quality of the air is some of the purest in Europe. Landscape is varied and picturesque with rolling hills, deeply wooded valleys and vast plains. In some areas, depending on weather and season, there are stunning views of the Pyrenees. Scattered haphazardly over this ever-changing scene are tiny hamlets, villages, hill towns and odd farm dwellings which, though remote, are often not too far from neighbours.