Troncens offers three different ways to enjoy a stay: architectural history at two churches, a hike with a specified distance and an orchard visit by appointment. You can explore the area through its architecture, the scenery along the Lakes Circuit or the cultivation of hazelnuts and apples.
Churches and architectural history in Troncens
The northern church is now the parish church of Troncens; it formerly served as the castle chapel. It stands in the centre of the village, near the town hall and below the site of the former castle. Its spire was built in 1895–1896, replacing an earlier spire that was five metres high. The church’s location and architectural history give it a direct connection to the history of the village centre.
The southern church offers a different historical perspective: its oldest structural elements date back at least to the 11th century. The south portal is decorated with a Christogram. Together, the two churches display different historical details—from the former castle chapel and the replacement of a spire to a medieval structural element and its portal decoration.
The Lakes Circuit: an eight-kilometre hike
The Lakes Circuit starts in Troncens. The trailhead is behind the town hall: pass through a gate to reach the path. The route is an easy, 8.0-kilometre walking trail of the PR type. Check trail conditions locally before setting out.
Along the way, the route crosses the Cabournieu stream over a bridge. It then passes through a forest and continues along a paved local road by Lake Monpardiac. The landscape is gently rolling; around Lake Monpardiac, the route takes in a peaceful, unspoilt setting. These sections offer a variety of scenery, so the hike is not limited to a single stretch by the lake.
Another section runs along the foot of a lake’s dam and follows the edge of a meadow to the village of St Alary. As well as forest and a local road, the route description therefore includes the dam section and the meadow edge. Those who mainly want to spend time outdoors will find a hike with a clearly stated distance in the Circuit; these landmarks help you get a sense of the route.
Orchard visit at Vergers Daguzan
Vergers Daguzan in Troncens produces hazelnuts and organic apples and welcomes visitors. Visits include walks through the orchards, insights into organic farming and tastings. On a guided visit, you follow the producer through rows of hazelnut and apple trees. Visits are available by appointment; arrange your visit before travelling.
The orchard visit ends with tastings of hazelnuts and homemade apple juice. The visit thus combines a walk through the growing areas with insights into organic farming and the products mentioned. Unlike the hike, whose distance is given as 8.0 kilometres, this activity requires an appointment in advance.
Which focus suits your stay?
When planning, the activities can be distinguished by their character: the two churches are all about architecture and local history, the Lakes Circuit offers an easy eight-kilometre hike through varied landscapes, and a visit to Vergers Daguzan provides a guided introduction to the orchards and their produce. If you plan to include several of these activities, check trail conditions before hiking and arrange your orchard visit in advance. This way, you can tailor your stay in Troncens to your interests without having to follow a set order.
Discover more destinations: Vic-Fezensac, Montpézat, Montréal, Berdoues, Sauveterre, Estampes, Préneron, Condom
For the overarching travel guide: Gers.
