The department of Gers, also known as Gascony, set in the
Occitanie region of southwestern France, holds a rich and fascinating past. Established during the tumultuous times of the French Revolution in 1790, Gers was formed by amalgamating regions from the former provinces of Guyenne and Gascony. This picturesque area is bordered by the departments of
Hautes-Pyrénées, Haute-Garonne, Tarn-et-Garonne, Lot-et-Garonne, Landes and Pyrénées-Atlantiques. Gers prides itself on being one of the least densely populated areas in Western Europe, offering a peaceful and idyllic setting for residents and visitors. The people of this region, affectionately known as Gersois, hold dear their traditional Gascon
béret, a symbol of cultural heritage that transcends generations.
Gascony, A Unique Distinction
A unique feature of Gers is its distinction as the only French department (number 32) that remains untouched by a motorway, a fact that is a source of great pride for the Gascon people. Despite its rural charm, Gers enjoys a strategic location equidistant from the bustling cities of Toulouse and Bordeaux, complemented by accessible internal airports that facilitate convenient travel.
Gastronomic Treasures of Gers
Gers' cultural tapestry is woven with the threads of agriculture, with a particular emphasis on local gastronomic treasures, such as foie gras, Armagnac digestif, and tasty wild mushrooms from the
terroir. While the Gascony language, a variant of Occitan, is not widely spoken, the region has been shaped by the influences of successive waves of British and Spanish immigrants over the years.
Auch: The Heart of D'Artagnan Country
Serving as the capital of Gers, Auch stands as a beacon of historical and cultural significance, revered internationally due to its association with
D'Artagnan and his
Musketeers. The city boasts an array of captivating landmarks, including the picturesque cathedral of
Sainte Marie, the imposing
Tour d'Armagnac and the splendid
Château de Lavardens. Visitors to Auch can engage in a variety of activities, from leisurely hikes and scenic cycling routes to immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of local markets and festive celebrations.
Key Information about Gers (32)
- Main City/Prefecture: Auch
- Nearest Airport: Toulouse-Blagnac Airport
- Population: Around 190,000 (as of the latest census)
- Area: 6,257 sq. kilometres and 2,415 sq. miles
- Landmark: Auch Sainte-Marie Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece with stunning stained glass.
- Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 900,000, enjoying its rural charm, Armagnac production and festivals.
Find Your Dream Home in the Gers
Set among rolling hills, vineyards and beautiful sunflower fields, Gers embodies the true spirit of rural France. This tranquil area in the southwest is renowned for its high quality of life, where traditional farmhouses, elegant country estates, and
historic châteaux coexist harmoniously within a landscape rich in centuries-old heritage.
Property Types in the Gers
In the Gers, you’ll mainly find characterful homes like traditional Gascon farmhouses made from local stone with exposed timber beams, renovated farm complexes, village houses, and period residences often set in spacious grounds, all showcasing the region’s proud architectural heritage.
Most Common Types of Properties
- Gascon Farmhouses – The emblematic homes of the region, often built in stone with visible wooden beams both inside and out. They are thoughtfully designed to capture the sunlight and enjoy natural warmth.
- Village Houses – Found in picturesque communes, these homes may be centuries old or more contemporary, offering a peaceful lifestyle and a strong sense of community.
- Character Homes – A broad term for the area’s many historic and distinctive properties, including Maisons de Maître, historic château estates and charming country homes full of personality.
- Country Properties – The Gers is also renowned for its old stone houses and longeres, set within gardens or parkland, which are cherished for their authenticity and tranquillity.
Average Property Prices in Gers (32) in 2025
- Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €1,915 (source: Le Figaro - October 2025)
- Apartments: average price per sq. metre: €1,480 (source: Le Figaro - October 2025)
- Price trends: +1% over the last 12 months, +39% over the last 5 years (Le Figaro)
2025 House Prices in the Main Towns in Gers
- Average House Price near Auch: €1,683 per sq. metre
- Average House Price near L'Isle-Jourdain: €2,566 per sq. metre
- Average House Price near Condom: €1,371 per sq. metre
- Average House Price near Fleurance: €1,527 per sq. metre
- Average House Price near Lectoure: €1,717 per sq. metre
(source:
Le Figaro - October 2025)
Why Buy a Property in the Gers?
- Affordable Rustic Charm: Gascony is up to 40% more affordable than the Dordogne, offering stone farmhouses (fermes gasconnes), village homes and large estates with land, ideal for lifestyle buyers, retirees, and those seeking a slower pace.
- Rental Income Potential: With tourists drawn to its rolling hills, Armagnac trails, and medieval bastides (such as Larressingle), properties here achieve yields of 5–8% annually, especially for gîtes located near Auch or Condom.
- Strong Transport Links: Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (1 hour), TGV to Paris (4 hours via Agen), and easy access to the Pyrenees and Spain make it convenient for second-home owners and remote workers.
- Mild Climate & Green Landscapes: Sunny summers (28–30°C) and mild winters (5–10°C), with lush countryside, vineyards, and rivers, making it perfect for outdoor activities, gardening, and country pursuits such as horseback riding or truffle hunting.
- Authentic Gascon Lifestyle: A region of unspoiled tradition with farmers’ markets, foie gras festivals, and traditional village fêtes. Life centres on local produce, historic bastides, and community, ideal for a true rural experience in France.
If you are looking for a property in Gers and Gascony, please contact us to discuss
your search criteria.