Description:

Geography

The town of Montreal-du-Gers was established as one of the "new towns" or bastides in 1255, but there had been a settlement here for many years prior to this.  It is located in the north western area of the Gers department in a landscape typical of the region, with rolling hills and vines interspersed with wheat and sunflower fields.

Tourism

Montreal-du-Gers is listed as one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France and after a short wander around the centre you will see why.  The market square is a lovely place to visit with arcades, interesting architecture and a number of cafes from which to admire them.  Adjacent to the town square is the 13^th century church which is worth a visit and from here there is a short walk to a view point over the Gers countryside.

On Friday mornings, enjoy a stroll around the market on Place de l'Hotel de Ville and stock up on local produce.

Nearby is the Gallo-Roman villa of Seviac with the remains of the walls and a number of mosaic floors.  There is a museum located in the tourist office in the town square,  that has many of the artifacts discovered at Seviac

Economy

In common with a great deal of the Gers, the primary basis of the economy is agriculture, but the wine, Floc de Gascogne and Armagnac production also plays a significant role.

Transport

The nearest train station is Condom, 15 km to the east, but once you have arrived there the only real option is to hire a taxi or car.  Driving around the Gers is a joy as the roads are usually quiet and traffic free.  Flying to the area, the nearest airport is Tarbes, but the flights are seasonal for the pilgrimages to Lourdes.  Toulouse-Blagnac is the next closest in the Midi-Pyrenees and has flights from Easyjet among others.  Not far from Tarbes is Pau airport in the neighbouring Aquitaine region, which Ryanair fly to.  Our travel pages give more details.

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