Flea market located in an old palace in Lectoure, France.

© Pernelle Voyage/Shutterstock

Lectoure

Top choice in Toulouse, Gers & Vallée du Tarn


It's something of a surprise to come across a place of such historical wealth in such a remote part of the Gers département, well away from any major communication route. At the eastern end of Armagnac region, this little charmer perched on a hilltop is Gers' most seductive village, with plenty of medieval buildings as well as handsome hôtels particuliers (private mansions). Many of Lectoure's historic buildings are occupied these days by antique dealers, artists, craftsmen, hoteliers and restaurants. Delve in!


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Toulouse, Gers & Vallée du Tarn attractions

1. Collégiale St-Pierre

7.19 MILES

A twin-towered medieval church and cloisters is the focal point of tiny La Romieu, 12km northeast of Condom. This lonely village outpost first sprang up…

2. Les Jardins de Coursiana

7.31 MILES

These landscaped gardens in La Romieu were laid out in 1974 by a local agricultural engineer. More than 700 trees and rare plants flourish in the four…

3. Marché au Gras

12.68 MILES

Stock up on local produce like homemade jams, cheeses, liqueur-steeped pâté and bottles of Armagnac at this twice-weekly food market.

4. Cathédrale St-Pierre

12.69 MILES

The foundations of this formidable cathedral date back to 1011, when the site hosted a Benedictine abbey. The cathedral was rebuilt in Flamboyant Gothic…

5. Musée de l'Armagnac

12.73 MILES

Located in a turn-of-the-century cellar, this museum is dedicated to the fine art of Armagnac production; it houses a modest collection of vintage bottles…

6. Abbaye de Flaran

12.85 MILES

This serene Cistercian abbey is one of the loveliest in the Gers département. Founded in 1151 and guarded by a 14th-century fortress door, it was…

8. Château du Busca Maniban

15.76 MILES

This magnificent château, 10km south of Condom on the D229, has been distilling Armagnac since the mid-17th century. It's not the place for a guided…