CASTLES GERS

Château de Lavardens is a medieval fortress turned cultural art center in Gascony, with origins dating to 1140. Originally belonging to the counts of Armagnac and damaged during medieval conflicts, it was transformed into a modern residence in the 17th century, though never completed. Now managed as a nonprofit heritage site, the castle hosts exhibitions including extended displays on d'Artagnan and regional history, guided tours available Wednesday mornings and evenings through August, and regular historical lectures. Open daily 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. with affordable admission, it combines preservation efforts with contemporary cultural programming.

Château de Caumont, built between 1525 and 1535 in the Gers département, represents one of France's largest and finest Renaissance châteaux, inspired by Italian architectural innovations alongside King François I's court journeys. Located in Cazaux-Savès on the outskirts of Toulouse, this classified historic monument balances medieval defensive forms with Renaissance refinement, earning nicknames including the 'Loire Valley castle of Gascony' and 'Sleeping Beauty castle.' Inhabited by the same family for centuries and managed since 2015 by Mathilde and Ghislain de Castelbajac, the château hosts guided tours, classical music concerts, antique fairs, costume balls, garden parties, and escape games within its underground passages.