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IN BRIEF
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The Grand Site Occitanie Contract 2023-2027 has just been validated, symbolizing a renewed dynamic in service of the attractiveness and heritage of the Gers region. This agreement brings together, within an ambitious strategy, the Department and the municipalities in the perimeter, to promote the richness of iconic sites such as Armagnac, the abbey of Flaran, and historical cities. By relying on a sustainable and innovative tourism policy, it aims to structure a high-quality offer driven by local stakeholders and open to all forms of discovery. The core of this initiative: preserve the identity of the territory while energizing its economy, thanks to a unique network of gentle itineraries, short circuits, and eco-responsible actions.
An ambitious tourism strategy validated for 2023-2027
The validation of the Grand Site Occitanie Contract 2023-2027 establishes a clear direction for local development. This program, supported by the steering committee comprising local elected officials and the Department, is part of the continuation of a regional policy that already unites 41 Grand Sites. The goal: to structure an exemplary and sustainable tourist offer, enhancing the visibility of Gers across the entire Occitan territory. Partners gathered at the Salvandy center, currently undergoing full rehabilitation, to sign this major commitment.
A territory of exceptional sites: armagnac, abbeys, and historical cities
The perimeter of the Grand Site Occitanie encompasses nine iconic hearts, ranging from Condom to La Romieu via Eauze, Lupiac, and Lectoure. Each town or village embodies a unique aspect of the region’s history and culture. The abbey of Flaran, a major reference among must-visit sites, is alongside bastides, ancient sites, and villages recognized for their authentic character. The territory is also crossed by significant axes of gentle mobility: greenways, hiking trails, bike routes, and the legendary Camino de Santiago.
Synergy and dynamism between territories
This new policy aims to develop sustainable synergies between the territories of Condom, Auch, and Marciac. The networking is seen as a force for attractiveness, uniting cultural, heritage, and wine tourism assets. To strengthen the coherence of the actions taken, coordination will be ensured by the Department and the Tourist Office of Ténarèze, thus promoting an ambitious common strategy. The beneficial effects of such an organization are regularly measured, as demonstrated by the synthesis of tourism returns from certain exceptional sites.
Sustainable tourism and human valorization at the heart of the project
A strong axis of this contract consists of placing human beings and the preservation of natural resources at the center of the tourism approach. Locals are directly involved in the local dynamic, helping forge a warm and authentic image of the territory. The program also aims for constant adaptation to climate challenges, favoring biodiversity, the growth of green tourism, and the diversification of experiences offered to visitors, such as slow and safe itineraries to explore the region during vacations.
Heritage, know-how, and cultural innovation
The promotion of architectural heritage and local know-how is at the heart of the economic aspect of the new contract. Sectors such as wine tourism, short circuits, artisanal crafts, and cultural innovation are supported to strengthen the vitality of the territory. This strategy is part of a national and European dynamic where tourism becomes a development engine, as evidenced by the economic recovery of the sector in Spain. Encouraging local purchasing, the discovery of authentic products, and interactions with artisans contribute to creating shared value among all stakeholders.
A shared ambition for the attractiveness of Gers
The strategy validated for the period 2023-2027 presents a shared ambition, where respect for heritage, quality of welcome, and innovation unite to build an exceptional destination. According to Philippe Dupouy, president of the Departmental Council, this Grand Site Occitanie contract symbolizes the collective will of the territory to invest in a more human and environmentally friendly tourism. Visitors will enjoy enhanced offers, unique experiences in iconic locations, and even assistance measures to facilitate their stays, such as State support for vacations.
Between authenticity and openness to new horizons
Thus, Gers weaves a harmonious link between tradition and modernity, offering a rooted experience while remaining open to the world. The example of the discovery of exotic destinations demonstrates that tourist innovation only makes sense if it is based on the preservation of a strong identity and on the commitment of locals to welcome and share their way of life.
