This trail links the GR65 to the GR653. Crossing the Gers, the GR de pays coeur de Gascogne passes through Auch, Lavardens, Castéra-Verduzan, Valence sur Baïse, Condom, La Romieu, Sainte-Mère, Lectoure, Fleurance, Montestruc and Montaut-les-Créneaux.

Characteristics

  • Distance : 165 km
  • Max altitude : 270 m
  • Min altitude : 70 m
  • Elevation : 3 200 m
  • Duration : 7 jours (It can be accomplished in 6 steps)
  • Difficulty : average
  • Markup : yes
  • Start and end : Auch

The hiking trail

The walking stages and points of interest

On the hiking trails of the Gers, you will cross Auch old town and its medieval lanes as well as the Grands Sites Occitanie / Sud de France (Top Occitania sites). Following the banks of the river Gers, enjoy the view over the Sainte-Marie cathedral, listed with UNESCO, which features three principle treasures: its stained glass, its organs and the exceptional woodwork of its choir stalls.

In Lavardens,  listed as “Most Beautiful Villages in France“, let the charm behold you ! Appreciate the charming mix of authentic stone homes, narrow cobblestone streets, the chateau, artisan shops and views over the surrounding countryside.

You will love Castéra-Verduzan, a small spa resort and also a spot to admire the Pyrenean mountains.

For a boat trip or a walk on the towpath, take time to discover Valence-sur-Baïse, 13th century bastide town, and the Cistercian Abbaye de Flaran which houses an exceptional collection of works of art from the 17th to 20th centuries.

Have a stop in Condom, one of the Grands Sites Occitanie / Sud de France (Top Occitania sites). This former episcopal city is the Armagnac trade capital.

In the village of La Romieu, learn about the legend of Angeline and her cats and visit the Collegiate Church classified World Heritage of Humanity by Unesco.

Next to the charming village Sainte-Mère, is Lectoure sitting high above and offering a nice panorama on the undulating landscapes of the Gers. Appreciate the rich heritage of this town, its Cathedral Saint-Gervais.

Crossing the bastide of Fleurance founded in the 13th century, you will see a beautiful central square with arcades. Admire the statues representing the four seasons and the Church in the Southern European gothic style. Are-you interested in stargazing ? You are in the right place !

Your tour takes you to Montestruc and Montaut-les-Créneaux, a charming medieval village full of character with its half-timbered and stone houses.

Then you reach Auch, and the circle is complete !