Auch Travel Guide

Discover Auch, a charming medieval city in France's Gers department with this in-depth travel guide. Explore the town's cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, local cuisine, and traditions.


Introduction to Auch

Located in the Gers department in the heart of Occitanie, Auch is a charming medieval city that offers many cultural and natural attractions and activities. Known for its stunning historic center, delicious local cuisine, and warm, hospitable residents, Auch is a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic French experience.

Auch is known as the capital of Gascony, a region that boasts an exceptional variety of gastronomic and wine-making traditions. The town is located in the rolling hills of Gascony, surrounded by vineyards, forests, and fields of sunflowers and wheat. The city is accessible from several airports, train stations, and highways, making it easy to visit from cities like Toulouse, Bordeaux, and Montpellier.

Whether you are looking to explore Auch’s rich history, enjoy the stunning natural surroundings, or taste the local specialties, Auch has something for everyone. Explore the following list of places to visit in Auch to plan an unforgettable trip.

List of Places to Visit in Auch

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cathedral Sainte-Marie d’Auch: The Cathedral of Auch is a masterpiece of Southern Gothic architecture. Constructed between the thirteenth and sixteenth century, the cathedral boasts many remarkable features, including a stunning altarpiece, an ornate choir screen, and impressive stained-glass windows.
  • Musée des Jacobins: Located in an ancient convent, the Museum showcases an eclectic collection of artifacts and artworks from the Roman times to the present day. The exhibits include archaeology, Fine Arts, and local history.
  • Musée des Amériques: The museum features a vast collection of pre-Columbian art and artifacts from the Americas. The exhibits cover the Mesoamerican, Central, and South American civilizations and their cultural heritage.

Natural Attractions of Auch: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Circular Walk of the Lère Valley: A gentle hike that follows the Lère River through beautiful meadows and forests, offering stunning views of the town and surrounding landscapes. The trail is well marked and starts just below the cathedral.
  • Mont Saint-Cécile: This hill overlooking the town is ideal for panoramic views of Auch and its surroundings. The Mont Saint-Cécile offers different paths for hikers, cyclists, and horse riders and is accessible all year round.
  • Golf de Auch-Embats: Set in a magnificent landscape surrounded by forests and vineyards, the golf course is open to all and offers a challenging game amid stunning views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Auch

Auch and its surroundings are a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The town boasts over 160 kilometers of hiking, cycling, and equestrian trails that take visitors through stunning forests, valleys, and fields. The “Voie Verte,” a 15-kilometer long greenway, follows a former railway line and provides a leisurely and safe cycling route.

Best Things to Do in Auch: Activities and Tours

  • Climb the stairs of the Monumental Staircase: This impressive staircase leads up to the cathedral and is one of Ausch’s most impressive landmarks. Its 374 steps take visitors off the beaten track through charming half-timbered houses and medieval alleys, and to the top of the hill where the views of the town are breathtaking.
  • Eat Local Cuisine: Auch is renowned for its local cuisine, with specialties including foie gras, Armagnac, and Cassoulet. With many restaurants and markets, locals and visitors can enjoy these traditional dishes, as well as regional wines, cheese, and pastries.
  • Attend the Auch International Circus Festival: This world-renowned circus festival takes place in Auch every year in February. It is one of the most important events in the circus industry and attracts performers from all over the world.
  • Visit Auch’s Christmas Market: Every month of December, the town celebrates the holiday season with a charming Christmas Market. The market features dozens of food and drink vendors, craftspeople, and musicians, and is a perfect way to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Week-Long Itinerary for Auch

For a week-long itinerary, visitors can follow this schedule:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the town center and visit the Cathedral
Day 2 Visit the Musée des Jacobins and the Musée des Amériques
Day 3 Hike the Lère Valley and discover the stunning countryside
Day 4 Bike the Voie Verte and experience the Gascony landscapes
Day 5 Discover the local food scene, including foie gras, Armagnac and Cassoulet
Day 6 Experience the town’s traditions and attend a local event
Day 7 Visit Mont Saint-Cécile and enjoy the stunning panoramic view

Food and Drink Scene of Auch

One cannot leave Auch without having tasted some of the famous local dishes and drinks. The town and its surrounding countryside offer great gastronomic experiences, and some of the must-try dishes and beverages include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Foie Gras: One of the most recognized dishes in France, foie gras, is a delicacy made from the liver of fattened geese or ducks. In Auch, visitors can taste foie gras in many forms: terrines, pâtés, or just in its raw state.
  • Cassoulet: This traditional Gascony dish is a must-try when in Auch. Cassoulet is a hearty stew made with pork, beans, and Toulouse sausage and is perfect for chilly days.
  • Gâteau à la broche: This Gascony dessert is a spindle cake made on a broth-baked rotating spit, resulting in a cylindrical pastry that caramelizes on the outside and remains moist inside. It is often served with local honey.

Local Beverages

  • Armagnac: Produced in Auch, Armagnac is one of France’s oldest and finest brandies. Visitors can visit the town’s Armagnac producer and tasting room to appreciate the unique flavor and authenticity of this drink.
  • Côtes de Gascogne Wine: Auch is surrounded by the Côtes de Gascogne vineyards, which produce some of France’s finest white wines.

Where to Stay in Auch: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Auch has a range of accommodation options for visitors of varying budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses, there are many options that offer comfortable stays in the heart of the town.

Some popular options include:

  • Hotel de France: This charming hotel is located in the heart of the historic center and offers comfortable rooms and an authentic French experience.
  • Chambre D’hôtes les Moureous: This cozy guesthouse offers a homey atmosphere and is perfect for those seeking peace and quiet in the countryside.
  • B&B Hotel Auch: A budget option, perfect for families and travelers on the go, the B&B Hotel Auch offers clean and functional rooms at a reasonable price.

What to Buy in Auch: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Auch can take home some of the town’s best products, including:

  • Foie Gras: As previously mentioned, foie gras is one of Auch’s most iconic foods, and visitors can take home preserved jars of this delicacy.
  • Armagnac: Armagnac is a perfect souvenir for lovers of French spirits and is available in all price ranges.
  • Local Crafts: Auch has several local craft markets where visitors can buy handmade pottery, textiles, and other artisanal products perfect for keepsakes.

Local Culture and Customs of Auch

Auch is a friendly and welcoming town that prides itself on tradition and hospitality. Visitors should be prepared for an authentic French experience, with a strong emphasis on local culture, cuisine, and customs. People in Auch speak French, but some also speak Occitan, the local dialect. Visitors should greet locals with a friendly “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir,” as French etiquette dictates.

Best Time to Visit Auch

The best time to visit Auch is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is mild and the countryside is in full bloom. Winter can be cold and rainy, but the Christmas markets and the Auch International Circus Festival make it a magical time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Auch

To ensure a successful and enjoyable trip to Auch, visitors should keep in mind the following do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine: Auch’s gastronomy is an essential part of the town’s culture and tradition. Sampling local dishes and drinks is a must-do for visitors.
  • Enjoy outdoor activities: Auch and its surrounding countryside offer numerous opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities, and visitors should take advantage of the beautiful landscapes.
  • Participate in local events: Auch regularly hosts cultural, music, and festive events that allow visitors to get a glimpse into the town’s traditions and culture. Visitors should not hesitate to participate in these events.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the town’s history: Auch is a town with a rich history and cultural heritage, and visitors should take time to appreciate the town’s historic landmarks and monuments.
  • Litter or damage the environment: Auch’s countryside and natural reserves are fragile ecosystems that need respect and protection. Visitors should avoid littering and abide by environmental laws and regulations.
  • Over-tip: While tipping is not expected in Auch, leaving a small tip of a few percent is appreciated.

Safety and Health

Safety in Auch

Auch is a safe town with a low crime rate, and visitors should not worry about safety. Nevertheless, visitors should keep an eye on their possessions and avoid leaving valuables or laptops in their car.

Health in Auch

Auch has a modern hospital that provides high-quality health care services. Visitors should have comprehensive medical insurance and respect hygiene recommendations, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Getting to Auch: Transportation Options and Logistics

Auch is accessible by various means of transportation, making it easy for visitors to get there from anywhere in Europe and beyond.

Airports Near Auch

The closest international airports to Auch are Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (90 km) and Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (180 km). Visitors can also fly to Lourdes-Tarbes Pyrenees Airport (85 km) or Pau-Pyrénées Airport (110 km) for more regional connections.

Bus Stations Near Auch

Auch is connected via regular bus services to major towns and cities in the region, including Toulouse, Tarbes, and Mont-de-Marsan.

Other Options

Visitors can drive to Auch on state roads or take a train to Auch’s railway station.

How to Get Around in Auch

Getting around Auch can be easily done by walking, biking, or driving. Car rental companies are available, and taxis can also be found throughout the town center.

Where to Go Next from Auch: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Auch is the perfect starting point for discovering the Gers department and its nearby destinations. Visitors can take a day trip to the historic city of Toulouse, famous for its pink sandstone architecture and vibrant cultural scene. They can also explore the beautiful Gascony countryside by visiting picturesque towns such as Marciac, famous for its jazz festival, or Condom, famous for its Armagnac production.

Conclusion

Auch is a town that has something to offer for everyone, from history buffs to outdoor adventurers, from foodies to culture aficionados. With its charming medieval center, stunning natural surroundings, and warm, hospitable residents, Auch promises an authentic French experience that visitors will not forget. Whether you’re looking for a weeklong itinerary or only have a day or two, there is something for everyone in this delightful Gascony town.