Over two centuries of history
Over 250 years of history, four prominent families, generations of travellers and a shared passion for hospitality. From its origins as a stagecoach inn to the boutique hotel it is today, the Hôtel de France tells part of the story of Auch and Gascony. This timeline traces the key milestones that have shaped its identity.
18th century
A guesthouse in the heart of Auch
In the days of the stagecoaches, the establishment was an inn where travellers, horsemen and post coaches would gather. Situated in the heart of Auch’s upper town, it quickly became a must-visit destination on the main roads of the South-West.
1756–1761
The origins of the Hôtel de France
Alexandre Tarbouriech merged the La Daurade and Aux Armes de France inns to create a larger establishment. The first major building works gave rise to the hotel as it began to take shape.
1888
The Dartigues family is taking up the torch
Joseph Dartigues bought the hotel and set about a major refurbishment. His aim was to make the hotel one of the finest in Auch.
1888–1904
The face we recognise today
The Dartigues family built the Great Hall, redesigned the interior spaces and gave the façade its current architectural style. The majestic entrance staircase and the building’s layout date from this period.
Early 20th century
Difficult years
Illness, family tragedies and then the First World War took their toll on the Dartigues family. Despite the prestige it had achieved, the hotel went through a particularly trying period.
1926
The arrival of the Daguin family
Albert Daguin bought the establishment. According to local legend, the deal was struck “for two barrels of Armagnac”. A new chapter began.
1942–1944
The Hotel during the Second World War
During the Occupation, the building was requisitioned by the German army, which set up its headquarters there. Like the rest of the city, the hotel went through a dark period in its history.
1959
André Daguin takes to the stage
André Daguin took over from his father at the helm of the kitchens. Very quickly, his talent helped to put Gascon cuisine on the map far beyond the borders of the Gers.
1960s–1990s
International renown
Having been awarded a Michelin star, André Daguin has become one of the leading ambassadors of French cuisine. The hotel is being modernised to cater for conferences, travellers and food lovers from all over the world.
Late 1990s
A new transition
After several decades at the helm of the restaurant, André Daguin is handing over the business. His culinary legacy, however, continues to have a profound influence on the restaurant’s identity.
2009
A new family, the same passion
The Casassus family is taking over the Hôtel de France. Bruno, Vincent and Fabien, alongside their father Jacques, are continuing the legacy of this Auscitaine institution with the same dedication to the local area and to hospitality.
2019
A long-term commitment
The Casassus family has also become the owners of the premises. This acquisition enables them to embark on an ambitious restoration of the historic building whilst preparing for the establishment’s future.
Since 2020
Tradition and renewal
The premises have been refurbished, the restaurants redesigned, and new projects are taking shape. The Hôtel de France continues to evolve whilst remaining true to its history and the Gascon way of life.
2025
Rooftop Opening
Located on the third floor of the hotel, on the site of the former Daguin family home, the rooftop terrace offers a panoramic view over the rooftops of Auch and the valleys of the Gers. Open during the summer months, it welcomes both hotel guests and passing visitors for a drink or a gourmet treat.
Today
Over 250 years of hospitality
From a coaching inn to a boutique hotel, from a family home to a renowned gourmet restaurant, the Hôtel de France continues a story that began over two centuries ago. A story of tradition, passion and hospitality, in the heart of Auch.
