Nogaro, Gers, Gascony.

Nogaro is the main town in the canton of Bas Armagnac in Gers, Gascony. The name Nogaro comes from the Latin ‘nugarolium’ that means ‘walnut planted place’.  The area has many historic places because Nogaro is on the Roman road from Toulouse to Auch  to Aire sur L’Adour to Dax and because of this Nogaro is also on the ‘way of St Jacques of Compostelle’ a pilgrim route that leads to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

Nogaro, Gers
Aerial view of Nogaro
Nogaro was founded by Austinde, archbishop of Auch, who gave this area to the local lord, Guillaume Raimond of Nogaro. Nogaro had a church and a collegiate to assure the worship and the teachings of the Roman Catholic faith.  The main church in Nogaro, dedicated to Saint Nicolas was consecrated in 1060.  The nineteenth century was marked by economical prosperity for Nogaro, based on the production of Armagnac brandy. Today, Nogaro, town of 2000 inhabitants has many attractions, the most notable of which is the F3 racetrack, known as the Circuit Automobile Paul Armagnac. 
Nogaro race track
Nogaro Race Tack
Other attractions near Nogaro include: The Nogaro aerodrome which is base for the Bas D’Armagnac flying club and flying school.
chateau d'espas
Chateau d'Espas
The Château d’Espas, to the north east of Nogaro is a small strong castle, build in the 13th century by the Count of Armagnac to shelter a garrison and to stock provisions.
Armagnac barrels
Armagnac Brandy, Chateau de Salles
The Château de Salles, 7 kms to the north of Nogaro is a good place to visit to sample the local wines and Armagnac.  The central house dates back to the 18th century while the attached buildings are even older.
Gite with pool
Gite with pool
Whatever you want to do on your French holiday this Gite with pool near Riscle and Nogaro is an excellent base for exploring Gers.

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