Condom
Condom can be justifiably proud of its rich history and architectural heritage. Capital of Ténarèze, one of the five ‘pays’of the Gers, Condom and its surroundings are ideal for a holiday with family or friends, a combination of relaxing, moving around and sight-seeing.
Condom and its fine Gascon houses at the heart of a ‘Grand Site Occitanie’
Let’s start by relaxing. The beautiful Gascon houses and their fine, tranquil gardens are wonderful places to enjoy uninterrupted views of the Pyrenees across valleys shaped by environmentally-friendly farming. Next, keep moving along the cycle path and traffic-free greenway beside the River Baïse for walks and bike rides in safe surroundings. As for sight-seeing, Condom is at the heart of the Grand Site Occitanie which regroups emblematic buildings like the fortified village of Larressingle.
The majestic cathedral of Saint-Pierre, an imposing, Flamboyant-Gothic work, dominates the town. Adjoining the cathedral, a cloister leads to the bishop’s private chapel and palace. This episcopal ensemble is completed by mansions dating from the 18th and 19th centuries, the economic heyday of Condom.
In and around Condom
The commercial port built in the 18th century on the River Baïse, nicknamed the River of Silver at the time, opened up the town to transport and trade, particularly of Armagnac brandy. The river is still navigable today and its marina is an ideal starting point to discover the Gers from the water by canoe or pleasure boat.
A network of footpaths including the pilgrim route to Santiago de Compostela and the voie verte de l’Armagnac (traffic-free greenway) offer a wide range of activities. And to view the area from a different angle, take a trip in a hot-air balloon, an unusual and thrilling experience !
Go out and meet producers who are part of the Bienvenue à la Ferme network to discover their expertise in wine-growing, animal farming etc. They are always happy to show visitors around and let them taste their wares. So now you have all the ingredients for an ideal holiday : encounters, emotion, relaxation and sport.
Top tip from Véronique » from Gîtes de France, Gers
« The harbour office at the little port of Condom cuts a fine figure. A barge trip along the River Baïse is one of the best times we’ve had in Condom. Time stood still. We went through the locks and slowly up the river, admiring the scenery in the peaceful sunshine. The crew were lovely, the meal on board the barge was good, and the trip itself very enjoyable, enhanced by the skipper’s wonderful sense of humour. I strongly recommend the trip. »
How to get to Condom
BY ROAD via A62 Autoroute between Bordeaux and Toulouse : Bordeaux is 137km (1¾ hours), Toulouse is 120 km (1½ hours). Take exit 7 via Agen.
BY TRAIN to Auch 45km, 42 minutes or Agen 38km, 35 minutes. Bus station at Condom. 2 bus companies : Transports Interurbains Occitanie : 0800 003 688 (free) / Transport Region Nouvelle-Aquitaine 0800 64 40 47 (free).
BY AIR to Toulouse-Blagnac : 120km, 1½ hours away. Bordeaux-Mérignac : 137km, 1¾ hours away. Agen-la Garenne : 38km, 35 minutes (domestic flights only).
SatNav : Condom Cathedral 43.957956 0.372144"
