Glorious Gascony
Estate agent Victoria Garnham speaks to Karen Tait about her local area and property options in southwest France
How long have you worked as an estate agent in France? I was born in England, but grew up in the Gers. I’ve worked as an estate agent for just over eight years. After two years of studies, I graduated with a real- estate agent diploma, worked for two diff erent agencies and have recently (September 2024) taken over the agency Gelas Immobilier, which has existed for more than 20 years.
Which part of France do you cover? The agency is based in Vic- Fezensac, in the centre of the Gers department, giving us access to a big part of Gascony.
How would you describe your region in fi ve words Gastronomy, sunlit, authentic, tranquil, preserved.
What local attractions are there in the area? Gascony is known for its charm and authenticity. It’s renowned for its culinary delights including foie gras, confi t de canard and armagnac, but also for its tranquillity, rolling hills, sunfl ower fi elds and unspoiled landscapes ideal for cycling, hiking and exploring nature.
On the market
The Gers department is full of history with lots of medieval villages and Roman ruins, and the locals are known for their welcoming nature and deep connection to their traditions. And of course, there are several festivals and traditional Gascon celebrations that keep the area lively and vibrant.
What’s your favourite corner of the Gers? It would undoubtedly be the heart of the department, anchored by the charm and vibrancy of Vic-Fezensac. The local area is defi ned by its gently rolling hills, fi elds of sunfl owers, vineyards producing armagnac and its slower, more refl ective pace of life. Vic-Fezensac stands out as a lively village in this peaceful countryside. Its central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the entire department. It’s the perfect blend of culture, nature and history that makes this part of the Gers so captivating.
Is it easy to access? Vic-Fezensac is relatively easy to reach for travellers from the UK as it is situated within an hour and 20 minutes from Toulouse- Blagnac airport and the same
from Pau airport. Overall, I’d say Vic-Fezensac is accessible, particularly for those fl ying into Toulouse or Pau and hiring a car.
Is it suited to those seeking a holiday or permanent home? Gascony is an ideal destination for both permanent and second homes due to its unique blend of charm, practicality, lifestyle off erings and ideal climate – but also aff ordability. For permanent residents, it
provides a serene environment for a relaxed lifestyle with good infrastructures and peaceful roads, while its proximity to cities ensures a balanced mix of seclusion and connectivity. Holiday-home owners can
enjoy the perfect escape from urban stress, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. It’s within easy reach of major cities via airports including Toulouse, Pau and Bordeaux, making it convenient for occasional visits. Properties in Gascony are more aff ordable than in other areas of France, so it’s an attractive place for retirees, expatriates and second-home buyers.
What kind of properties does Gascony off er? Gascony has a rich variety of
properties, characterised by its traditional architecture, rural charm and unspoiled authenticity. You will fi nd many maisons Gasconnes: rustic homes with stone walls, exposed beams and outbuildings; but also maisons de maître with thick stone walls, high ceilings and large windows; plus timber-framed houses in certain areas.
What would people get for a budget of: Under €100,000: You can fi nd a two/three-bedroom village house requiring some minor work, or a complete renovation project. €100,000-€250,000: From village houses to traditional stone country houses that require some work doing to them and contemporary villas. €250,000-€500,000: A stone family house or B&B project with a pool, perhaps in need of renovation work, located in the countryside and including land and outbuildings. €500,000-€750,000: Choose from renovated stone properties with a pool, outbuildings and gîtes that are already operational and lovely views – or even equestrian properties.
€79,000, Fourcès:Renovation project in a quiet spot with countryside views; farmhouse with two stone barns, outhouses in a 1,070m2
garden
€160,000, Eauze:Renovated four-bedroom townhouse with patio, plus 230m2
space with separate access – both in the town centre
46 FRENCH PROPERTY NEWS: March/April 2025
of commercial
€265,000, Belmont: Five- bedroom village house with a 1,650m2
garden and views of the
Pyrénées, plus a two-storey barn; amenities are nearby
€398,000, Castéra-Verduzan: A four-bedroom house featuring exposed stone walls, stone fi replace, pool, outbuildings and far-reaching country views
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