Masseube is a commune in the Occitania region of Gers, 25 km south of the capital, Auch, and 85 km west of Toulouse.
Located in the valley of the Gers (the river that gave its name to the department), it enjoys a mild climate on a slightly hilly terroir favorable to agricultural activity (breeding, cereals) thanks to a Good irrigation linked to the proximity of the Pyrenean chain. The locality was founded in 1274. It is then a bastide, that is to say a new town with habitat grouped according to a checkered plan and endowed with political and economic freedoms. The city that depends on the tolosan county is also protected by ramparts.
In the heart of an area where cattle and poultry (geese) and cereal crops (corn, wheat) have remained the pillars of its prosperity, in 1940 Masseube Were initially hosted by refugees from northern and eastern France and, after 1943, were interned by German Jews and Spanish republicans.
Now labeled Green Station, Masseube (nearly 2,000 inhabitants) offers the visitor the face of a lively city, with preserved heritage and a natural environment of quality, conducive to outdoor recreation.
The discovery of Masseube begins with the heart of the bastide which has retained much of its original charm.
In the central square, you can see the halls surmounted by the old common house which has become the town hall and traditional boxes (commercial galleries). In the main street, half-timbered houses from the 18th century have been preserved, and many mirrors (covered galleries).
At the corner of the rue du Commerce and the impasse du Couvent, a 16th century house has been classified (additional inventory of historic monuments). It is noted that various materials have been used: from stone to ground floor, cob, oak half-timbering and flat bricks for the upper levels. The Saint-Christophe church, rebuilt first in 1700, was rebuilt at the end of the 19th century in a neo-Gothic style. Only the lower part of the facade and the bell tower were preserved. Inside, frescoes were made in the 1930s by local artists.
From the ramparts you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Pyrenees. The walk can be completed by a few stops on so-called small heritage (fountains, washhouse).
It is time to take advantage of the 300 kilometers of marked trails on Masseube and its immediate surroundings which are the delight of hikers on foot, by mountain bike or on horseback. The opportunity to admire wild orchids or to walk along the Gers... Brochures and information at +33 5 62 66 12 22.
Close to the river, precisely, Island of Ager, a site of several acres largely shaded. It includes picnic areas, sports trail, fishing areas. Swimming is prohibited.
For the watery pleasures, one can take advantage of the outdoor swimming pool which adjoins the tourist and hotel complex (camping, chalets), on the road to Simorre. Besides spaces for swimming, there are playful facilities (slide). Open in July and August every day from 10:45 to 12:45 and from 15:00 to 19:45. Information on +33 (0) 5 62 66 16 45.
For equestrian excursions and horseback riding, an equestrian center is open to outside visitors. Contact at +33 6 84 36 43 48.
Golf enthusiasts are not forgotten with a 9 hole course on 50 undulating hectares (initiation possible). For more information, please contact the Golf de Gascogne on +33 6 73 78 37 12 or +33 6 31 81 40 60.
In addition, the sports complex near the campsite offers tennis courts and table tennis, as well as a pediment (Wall) to discover the charms of the pala (pelota basque).
The gourmet pleasures and riches of the Gers region (which specialties related to geese, such as foie gras) are to be discovered during the weekly market, Place du Foirail, every Tuesday morning, and in July and August, on the local producers' market, On Saturday morning, at the level of the Halle.
At the beginning of March, at the local cinema, the Pocket Film festival (short film projections by passionate enthusiasts, notably via mobile phones) takes place.
Every 1st of May, place du Foirail, garage. From Thursday of the Ascension to the Sunday following, the Spring Festival program balls, fun activities and moments of conviviality.
In the middle of July, over four days, the Musique en Astarac festival offers music concerts in various communes of the canton of Masseube.
The last weekend of July, the village celebrates its patronal festival. Fun activities, balls, meals, bullfighting and fireworks are on the program.
