We have had the most fabulous couple of days here in the Gers region. We’ve visited several local markets ablaze with fantastic displays of vegetables, fruits and CHEESES!!!! Did I just mention THE CHEESES! OMG we have feasted on some wonderful creamy Basque cheeses, glutenous…. undulating …. vats of roquefort blue cheese… cheese so ripe it oozed home after us…. the Cheese That Ate Chicago type cheese… just imagine it….

The Markets were in Maubourguet and Marciac. Both very historic, atmospheric small market towns. Very popular with Brits. We were everywhere in evidence but somehow or other the towns held onto their identity. Multiple artisan bakeries where people were flocking and queueing to buy their bread. Not some pre-sliced supermarket thing. Genuine loaves, batons, strange loaves of unknown designation but well known to locals. Huge Loaves. I am not joking, some the size of a small child, carried out of the bakery, cradled in the arms of the proud purchaser and designated for some sort of feast.

We have feasted thanks to Sheila and her excellent cooking. A five star hotel would not have served us finer. We have eaten long lunches stretching out through the afternoon, shielded within their outdoor dining area, later continued on the west facing poop deck. We have supped long bottles of rose and red, white both dry and sweet – all local. We have gorged fois gras and local CHEESE… did I mention the cheese? None of us expect our non elasticated trousers will fit come tomorrow.

Tomorrow we must sadly move on, heading back towards Paris for the next stage of our French adventure. We are so lucky to be able to come here and experience this rural area with people who have made it their home.

This is a lovely corner of France. Not hugely touristy but with space and enough to do to keep you happy. A peaceful generous region that hasn’t changed much in the 20 years we’ve been fortunate enough to visit.