When choosing a destination to visit, keep the relevant district in mind as a point of reference alongside the topic.

Three districts as points of reference

Bières lies to the east, Couloumé to the west and Mondébat to the south. The three districts are about 3.5 kilometres apart. The departmental roads RD 37, RD 126 and RD 131 cross the commune. They supplement the place names as reference points at the commune level; when planning, it remains important to distinguish between the districts. So use the specific place name when organising your destinations or choosing the right starting point for your stay.

Castles with different construction phases

The Château de Couloumé tells a story in several stages: it dates back to the 14th or 15th century, was rebuilt in the 17th and 18th centuries, and received its current name in 1816. Its origins, reconstruction and naming mark different points in time; the château therefore cannot be reduced to a single construction phase. In 1984, the city of Istres acquired the Château and turned it into a holiday centre. If you would like to visit the building, check the current access arrangements in advance.

The Château d'Arlens in Mondébat offers a second castle history: it dates from the 17th century and was rebuilt in the 19th century. By comparison, the origins of the Château de Couloumé go further back and include its naming in 1816; at Arlens, the focus is on the 17th century and the later reconstruction. This allows you to place the two buildings in context by comparing their different timelines.

Churches and chapels by district

The Église Saint Barthélémy de Mondébat dates from the 12th century and was remodelled several times in different periods. Its architectural features also include Romanesque elements. Its early date of origin is therefore only one part of its architectural history: later alterations also shape its historical context.

In Couloumé, the Église Saint Jean Baptiste dates from the 18th century; in Bières, the Chapelle Saint Étienne dates from the 17th century. The three religious buildings are thus spread across the three districts and span different periods of construction. If churches and chapels are of particular interest to you, you can use the place names and dates together as a guide for making your selection.

Horse-riding activities and music programme

The Poney Club des 3 Collines offers horse care, introductory riding lessons, as well as rides and hikes in a 10-hectare forest. Its site in the rural Gers region covers 40 hectares. The activities differ considerably: horse care and introductory lessons are different formats from rides and hikes. As bookings and availability may change, check the current options before making plans.

At the Cordes en Gascogne festival, the Black Oak Ensemble introduces its students to the audience and features them in masterclasses. A description of the 2026 festival states that all concerts are free and open to the public. If you have another edition in mind, check its programme, dates and access information.

Discover more destinations: Cologne, Lagraulet-Du-Gers, Maulichères, Valence-Sur-Baïse, Ladevèze-Rivière, Maravat, Terraube, Montegut.

For the overview of the wider area: Gers.