"Les visites autour de la Chaumière"
Domaine de la Higuère – Vignobles Esquiro
Since 1784, nine generations have followed one another at Domaine de la Higuère, cultivating our family vineyard with respect for nature.
A pioneer in the pursuit of sustainable viticulture, the Esquiro family manages its vineyard using integrated pest management practices.
Foie gras tour
Combining exploration with local gastronomy, this excursion is sure to make your mouth water. Starting from Samatan—often called the "Mecca of foie gras"—you will traverse a vibrant countryside dotted with traditional Gascon farmhouses, old mills, and small lakes.
64.45 km | Elevation gain: 887 m | Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Following the Save Valley, the route takes you through a colorful landscape scattered with Gascon farmhouses, mills, and small lakes. Along the way, you will pass through Lombez—a former bishopric—which once housed a Benedictine abbey founded in the 11th century. The town is home to the Cathedral of Sainte-Marie, featuring stained glass windows attributed to Arnaud de Moles, as well as an organ—restored in 1995—that is said to be the finest in the south of France.
In Cazaux-Savès, you will discover the imposing Château de Caumont. In the 16th century, it served as the residence of Jean-Louis Nogaret de La Valette—better known as the Duke of Epernon—and in the 19th century, it became the home of Armand, Marquis de Castelbajac.
LAND ART IN THE PAYS PORTE DE GASCOGNE REGION
The Pays Portes de Gascogne invites artists to create works that address the environment. These pieces encourage reflection, observation, pausing, contemplation, and finding meaning in our surroundings.
Inspired by the Land Art movement, the works along this route were created with the involvement of local residents. Rent an e-bike and set off to explore the region!
SAM'AFRICA FESTIVAL
September 4, 2026 – September 6, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
The Sam'Africa Festival, taking place from September 4 to 6, 2026, is an African-themed festival held in Samatan, in the Gers region of Gascony.
Artists, dancers, singers, street performers, and craftspeople will introduce you to African culture and arts. Through various exhibitions—featuring paintings, sculptures, photographs, and more—you will be transported across the countries of the African continent.
A wide range of workshops will also be available, offering you the chance to try your hand at activities such as African dance and playing African musical instruments.
SAMATAN FAT-POULTRY MARKET, LES MATIN'HALLES
In the Gers—the heart of Gascony and the Southwest—the goose is more than just a game (or a child’s board game). Along with its counterpart, the duck, it is an integral part of the Gers landscape. Its presence here dates back to antiquity; the Romans were already familiar with *foie gras*—proof that this quintessential festive delicacy has long held a place on our tables, for any and every occasion.
VILLAGE OF SIMORRE GERS – CULTURAL HERITAGE
A charming village, featuring a fortified church, an old central market hall, a museum, half-timbered houses with overhanging upper stories, a fairground, and shaded little squares that invite exploration. Simorre is full of delightful surprises.
The atmosphere in this small village is truly pleasant—as are the convivial, music-filled nights in the square opposite the "Bouche à Oreille."