Bed and breakfast in Lourdes

A pilgrimage centre in the heart of the Hautes-Pyrénées

Located in the department of Hautes-Pyrénées, the commune of Lourdes derives its prestige from its major shrines. It is the largest Catholic pilgrimage centre in France, welcoming over 6,000,000 visitors every year, despite being permanently inhabited by just 15,000 people. It is also the second-largest hotel city in France after Paris. Lourdes borders Poueyferré and Bartrès to the north and Aspin-en-Lavedan to the south. It is also bordered to the east by Lézignan and to the west by the communes of Omex and Saint-Pé-de-Bigorre.

Here you can sample Pyrenean trout and Trebons onion, an ingredient characterised by its high sugar content. Lourdes is not to be outdone when it comes to wines, and Madiran is particularly popular in this corner of the Pyrenees, a full-bodied wine best paired with local cheeses. Jurançon is another wine that goes perfectly with duck liver and all aperitifs. Succulent at snack time or as a dessert, spit-roasted cake will delight your taste buds! Confectionery traditionally eaten in Lourdes includes Pyrenean flakes and pebbles from the Gave.

Lourdes' religious heritage

Whether you're a practising Catholic or a history and religious heritage enthusiast, you must set off to explore the must-see sites of the Sanctuary of Notre-Dame. The three great churches of this pilgrimage centre will not leave you indifferent. You're bound to be fascinated by the Romanesque-Byzantine architecture of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, a building characterised by its sumptuous Venetian mosaics. In the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, linger over the grandiose stained-glass windows depicting the Virgin Mary. Finally, the underground Basilica of Saint Pius X, which can hold up to 25,000 people, is always awe-inspiring. Its many canvases depicting saints and the Blessed are what make it so special.

Lourdes has many other treasures outside the sanctuaries, such as its fortified castle. Culminating on a rocky promontory in the centre of the town, it occupies a defensive position and has its own small chapel. Climbing the Pic du Jer is another of the region's delightful tourist attractions. The most courageous will reach the summit on foot, but there's nothing to stop you taking the funicular to the end and enjoying a breathtaking panorama over the valley. The area around Lac de Lourdes is ideal for mountain biking, golf and hiking, so don't hesitate to venture out here during your holiday - you'll love the peace and quiet!

Sightseeing around Lourdes

When you choose your bed and breakfast in Lourdes, you'll find yourself close to many culturally attractive sites. Set off to discover the town of Tarbes, where the Jardin Massey offers an exotic stroll, while its museum guarantees a highly instructive experience. To put stars in your children's eyes, head for the Pyrenees animal park at Ayzac-Ost. There you'll meet bears, wolves, the superb lynx and the giant otter.