La Ferme du Plantier: explore Ouzous, Hautes-Pyrénées

Three basilicas and three types of art in the Sanctuaries of Our Lady of Lourdes (Afternoon visits are preferable, after the morning services and before the procession at 17.00h)

The Bernadette’s life path presents the small city of Lourdes, in its social and historical context, before, during and after the Apparitions of 1858. From the nineteenth century up to now, the visitor follows the evolution of the city and its necessary transformations to foster the crowds This itinerary reveals, under the form of illustrated boards, the Marian city such as Bernadette knew and frequented it. This itinerary which can be done in 1h30mn includes seventeen points of interest.

Evoking Lourdes in the Middle Ages is a historical itinerary reminding the medieval city of Lorda, former name of Lourdes, protected by its two rows of fortifications with twelve towers and nestled at the bottom of the fortified castle – place of residence of the counts of Bigorre since the 11th century. This itinerary, partly virtual, transports the visitors some centuries back. The illustrated boards present a retrospective overview of the medieval city of Lourdes. This itinerary which can be done in one hour includes eleven points of interest. The Bernadette’s life path presents the small city of Lourdes, in its social and historical context, before, during and after the Apparitions of 1858. From the nineteenth century up to now, the visitor follows the evolution of the city and its necessary transformations to foster the crowds This itinerary reveals, under the form of illustrated boards, the Marian city such as Bernadette knew and frequented it. This itinerary which can be done in one hour includes seventeen points of interest.

Summary : Visit of the town of Lourdes on the eve of the Apparitions Duration : approx. 2hrs The visit begins in front of the Tourist Office.

Discover one of the most beautiful valleys in the Pyrenees at your own pace, on foot or by bike. All along this 17 km route, you will find information about the villages around you and services on offer. Their rich heritage is well worth the visit! Nature fans will constantly be tempted to adventure off the trail on either side to explore the:  Lavedan paths  Gave river-bank paths  mountain-bike and bicycle paths

This circuit in the countryside around the village of Asson in the Pays de Nay takes you up the hillside in a steady climb so you can enjoy a beautiful clear view of the lowland and the first foothills of the Hautes-Pyrénées. It’s worth making some effort. This beautiful and intensive route, after taking you about two-thirds of the way into the forest, will lead you to a beautiful beech wood and the cabin of l’Isarce.

This lovely hike with a sharp climb will delight mountain lovers keen on wild and empty spaces. Its steep slope can be a perfect circuit for those who like to race the clock on their mountain climbs. No matter how you reach it, the summit of l’Estibète, at the beginning of the Pyrenees, provides a gorgeous panorama. If you look up, you may see birds of prey in the Pyrenean sky. The bearded vulture, a scavenger with an orange stomach and black wings, has a wingspan of about 3m ( 9.84ft.). It is the biggest bird of prey in Europe. Its cousin, the more solid, brown griffon vulture follows closely behind it with a 2.80m ( 9.18ft.) wingspan. Smaller, the golden eagle differentiates itself by its hunter’s flight. Its wings of 2.10m ( 6.90ft.) wingspan are solid, dark brown and curved at the end. Immature eagles have white markings.

The forges of l’Ouzom, consuming large amounts of charcoal, used some hundreds of hectares of forests every year. Colliers used to work in the forest, as closely as possible to the resource. They built stacks of wood that they burnt, covering them with dirt, so that they could burn without air. During the 19th century, it was the turn of movable metal kilns, which also enabled the recovery of tar. These large, lidded cauldrons were, in the case of those of Monbula, carried up, whole, on men’s backs as well as rolled on logs. Some elders can still remember the exploit!

A short introductory stage between the sanctuaries of Betharram, on the eastern edge of the Pyrénées-Atlantiques, and the bastide town of Bruges, representative of the villages of the Pyrenean foothills, founded in the 14th century with a vocation to welcome pilgrims. To reach it, the route alternates between the heights of the hills bathed in light and the coolness of the discreet rivers at the bottom of the valley.

The Pays de Nay cycle path forms part of the long-distance route that links the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean and then swings to the north of Europe via the EuroVelo 1 route. It’s a pleasant ride from village to village, enabling you to discover the local heritage and history, in particular the Baburet footbridge. Built in 1930 to relaunch iron mining in Baburet, the footbridge was a key component of the railroad that linked the mine with the Coarraze-Nay railway station. From the 16th to the 19th century, Baburet’s iron deposits supplied many forges in the Pays de Nay and the valley of Ossau. The closure of the forges in 1866 led to the shutting of the mine. In 1930, to meet the needs of new factories all over France, the mine reopened and the railroad was built. After the final closure of the mine in 1962, the track was dismantled.

This unique experience plunges you into the depths of the Grottes de Betharram for a 45-minute tour. By foot, by boat and by train, discover all of the curious features present in the underground galleries and chambers! BY FOOT, BY BOAT, AND EVEN BY TRAIN: SPEND 80 MINUTES DISCOVERING THE CURIOUS UNDERGROUND PASSAGES AND CHAMBERS OF THE GROTTES DE BATHARRAM! Your itinerary begins with the upper section of the caves, which is composed of vast galleries and immense chambers adorned with numerous stalactites and stalagmites. You will then descend an 80-metre abyss where, accompanied by your guide, you'll take to the underground river in a small boat. To finish the tour, you'll then board a little train that follows a 700-metre subterranean trail. Take advantage of this activity to embark on a quirky underground adventure!

Near Nay and Lourdes, the Vieux Logis hotel-restaurant is located a few steps from the region's most important tourist site, the Bétharram grottos. This family home has been lovingly converted into a charming hotel complex by their owners, Francis and Marie-Pierre Gaye. Today, the hotel-restaurant offers a contemporary décor. With its 28 rooms labelled Logis (3 "cocottes" and 3 "fireplaces"), and its 5 huts ("Insolite By Logis"), this establishment is a safe bet as much for the quality of the reception and its rooms, as for its restaurant. The cuisine served showcases the local gastronomy.

Set up in the natural canyon carved out of the Pyrenees by the River Ardour, this via ferrata course is a fun and sporty way for families or groups of friends to make the most out of the stunning landscapes. SET UP IN THE NATURAL CANYON CARVED OUT OF THE PYRENEES BY THE RIVER ARDOUR, THIS VIA FERRATA COURSE IS A FUN AND SPORTY WAY FOR FAMILIES OR GROUPS OF FRIENDS TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF THE STUNNING LANDSCAPES. Zip lines, rope swings, monkey bridges, and all kinds of challenges await you within this exceptional site. Make your way along the rock face, following the cable that's fixed into the stone with the aid of well-placed hand and footholds: thrills guaranteed! The itinerary is adapted for all levels, from 3 to 83 years! An activity leader will be present to take care of the little kids while the bigger ones take on the via ferrata course accompanied by expert mountain guides. The itinerary is fully secure and all equipment adheres to strict safety regulations. You will be provided with everything you need: harness, helmet, ropes and carabiners. At the end of your activity, tea and coffee will be served in a traditional shepherd's hut. All participants, young and old, will be presented with an Ardour climbing certificate, as well as photos and a personalized film of the day's highlights.

5km from Nay, this detached house located in the small village of Igon, has a beautiful view of the Pyrenees. Located in a quiet street, this home features many amenities to allow you to enjoy a pleasant stay. You can also enjoy the garden, garden furniture and the plancha. Nearby is the Gave de Pau, where you can enjoy great fishing or go rafting, canoeing, hydro speeding, etc. For hikers, come explore our marked trails, passable on foot or bike as well as our horseback rides.

We are delighted to welcome you to the ski resort of Gourette, on the Valentin valley, on the GR10 towards the Col de Tortes. The 200 m outward and 180 m return zip lines are suspended on a cable between two mountains. They are accessible to everyone aged 5 and over. The sensations are guaranteed for zero effort! A guide is on hand to welcome you. The harnesses are not suitable for people with a very wide pelvis.

In the heart of the resort of Gourette, this apartment welcomes you for a stay in front of the circus of Gourette, in the ascent to the pass of Aubisque. Ideal location for a successful stay in the mountains... You will be able to access the ski area in winter as well as the multiple hikes on the cirque of Gourette and the Col d'Aubisque in summer

In the Ossau Valley, on top of the resort, among the pines and larches, facing the cirque of Gourette, on the road of the legendary Aubisque pass. 143 housing, located south. Relaxation area with sauna, steam room, fitness and solarium overlooking the ski area and surrounding mountains, for your parties, the panoramic restaurant Club offers the finest spectacles: a one-on-one with the snowy peaks! Nightly entertainment, club for children from 3 to 10 years and junior and teen club.

In Gourette, at the foot of the slopes in winter and very close to the Col d'Aubisque and the many hikes that the site offers. This charming chalet, entirely renovated in a mountain spirit has all the comfort, a beautiful fireplace and a stove, a large fenced wooden terrace, a balcony, a parking space, baby equipment, multiple storage for ski equipment etc. The chalet is located on a very quiet dead end street.

On the Col d'Aubisque road, in the heart of the Gourette resort, the P'tit Manabi studio offers a breathtaking view of the Gourette cirque from its balcony/terrace. Completely renovated, its location is ideal for a successful stay in the mountains, whether in winter or summer. Situated at the foot of the slopes, it will delight lovers of skiing, hiking and the great outdoors.

Gourette: ultramodern equipments, snowmaking network from 1400 m. Easy access to the station by the gondola that takes you to the heart of the resort from the parking Ley (free) - Beginners have their own area: the Happy Place, space dedicated to learning, equipped with green slopes, carpets, chairlift, animation workshops, events, mountain restaurant, starting course of snowshoeing, Nordic bath, outdoor sauna, night in an igloo, snake gliss. 16 lifts. 28 tracks, 2 mountain restaurants, ski school, and independent monitor, snow parks, boardercross, rail park, pump park N'Py Moov and big air. Member of N'PY network.

Until 1881, the only point to cross the Gave River and to access Massabielle was through this Pont-Vieux. Bernadette took it on each Apparition (except the last one). It was also the itinerary of the first pilgrimages. This bridge has existed since the Middle Ages. In 1870, the city decided to flatten it by suppressing its bump. In 1900, it was enlarged to allow for the passage of the tramway.

On the 19th century, the medieval cemetery situated in Saint-Pierre church became too small. It was transferred to “rue de l’Égalité”. In this cemetery are the ones of the witnesses of the Apparitions, of the hospitallers, of the Soubirous family (except Bernadette whose grave is in Nevers) and of Bernadette’s Novice Mistress. There is also the War Memorial, a rare work by the sculptor Jean-Marie Mengue.

On February 11, 1858, Bernadette Soubirous, her sister Toinette and her friend Jeanne Abadie crossed the Pont-Vieux and went there to get some wood. At the Massabielle Grotto, Bernadette’s destiny changed as well as the destiny of Lourdes. The left bank of the Gave River was then composed of farming lands that are today hotels and shops. Saint Joseph statue was erected in 1909.

The Baüs Tower owes its name to the cliff which supported the south part of the city fortification wall. It was located in the middle of this street, where is now the Hôtel de Rome. It was used as a prison during several periods. In 1871, the municipality destroyed it to make easier the passage of cabs and carriages under its vault. The Castle area with its medieval streets led also to this tower.

The Garnavie tower (13th century) was named originally the Guigne tower because of its perfect location to keep a close eye on the village and then the castle at a glance. Then it took the name of the part of town where it stands. This tower, a property of the community, has survived the city urbanisation. Listed on the additional Inventory of National Heritage in 1946, it was restored in 1994.

This half tower, situated in the southwest angle of the first fortification row in front of the defence line, was built on a small cliff and dominated the market square. The fortification wall had been opened for the alley but it is still present in the wall of the building facing it. There is also a turret surrounded by a small garden, from the Jerusalem Hospitallers’ house.

Bernadette Soubirous had lived in this room of 16 m² with her parents, her sister and both her brothers from May of 1856 until mid-September of 1858. This hovel was the former dungeon of Lourdes, abandoned in 1824. This was the domicile of the Soubirous family during the Apparitions. They left that place in September to live at the Deluc’s place, a pastry cook on place Marcadal.

The fortified castle was built in the Middle Ages on a natural defensive elevation. Because of its high strategic and defensive qualities, the county site was subject to numerous conflicts. It had changed hands frequently and was modified after Vauban’s intervention. Then it became a State prison under Louis XIV. It was bought again by the community in 1894. In 1921 the Musée Pyrénéen was inaugurated there.

The “rue du Bourg” was the main street of the city. Noble houses of the 17th and 18th centuries are still visible such as the mansions of General Maransin, General d’Embarrère and General Duprat. The “chaussée du Bourg” was the prolongation of the “rue du Bourg”. It was a way treated with lime to strengthen its ground. At the n°29 of “rue de la Grotte” the left corner of a half-timbered house is visible

In Lourdes, the “cagots”, a population victim of segregation, had their own Saint-Jean chapel. The construction was still standing in 1872 and was used as a barn by the owner of the Senjouan baths.

The Restaurant Le Vieux Logis is ideally located at the foot of the Pyrenees, in an authentic and peaceful natural environment, between Nay in Béarn and Lourdes in Bigorre. From there, you are every close to the track of the way of Piedmont, one of the paths towards Santiago de Compostela and on the véloroute V 81 Pyrénées-Gave-Adour. Close to the famous Bétharram Grottos, Francis and Marie-Pierre Gaye's restaurant offers country cuisine highlighting local producers. From here, you are close to the passage of the voie du Piémont, one of the roads to Santiago de Compostela. The restaurant has also been awarded 3 "cocottes" in the Logis guide making it one of the region's essential restaurants.

Right in the heart of town, ideally located between Pau, Tarbes and Lourdes, the Hôtel du Commerce serves authentic gourmet cuisine. "A friendly place where you can eat well" is how regulars describe the place. For meat lovers, there's the popular grilled entrecôte de b?uf, coq au vin, the unmissable omelette aux cèpes, paëlla, cruji coques and a variety of desserts. Something for everyone's taste buds...

Located not far from the center of Pontacq, the café de France will serve you its "bistro" cuisine with market products. The chef will share with you his traditional cooking modernized according to the seasons with fresh products. For the amateurs of good meat, the false net garni is proposed every day!

Lou Papà, located in Asson in the Pyrenees in the Ouzom valley, is a pizzeria. Marjaurie, welcomes you to her restaurant Lou Papa, where taking the time to relax and savor regional products is a pleasure. It's a convivial place for a gourmet break, offering homemade pizzas and pasta made with local ingredients, with a grocery store selling local beers and Béarn products. Whether you want to relax on the terrace or take your meals away, Lou Papà is ideal for those who enjoy simple, delicious moments.

Located at the entrance of the town of Pontacq, not far from Tarbes and Lourdes, this small restaurant is worth a visit. Lovers of good food and nice atmosphere, this restaurant cellar wine bar is for you. You will be served fresh dishes changing according to the seasons: piquillos stuffed with meat or fish, oyster mushrooms, melted camembert and walnut salad, seafood risotto are some of the dishes on offer, all accompanied by a good little wine proposed by the chef.

Located in the heart of the charming village of Igon, Chez Ludo restaurant offers a gastronomic getaway to Italy with authentic cuisine. Headed by Chef Ludo, this warm and friendly venue offers dishes and pizzas featuring local and seasonal produce. In a rustic, intimate setting, every visit to Chez Ludo promises a culinary break with the flavors of Italy to the delight of guests.

Located in the Intermarché shopping zone in the village of Coarraze, Antonio welcomes you to his friendly Pizza Mona restaurant. The chef offers quality Italian cuisine with a varied range of well-stuffed pizzas with crisp, thin dough, as well as salads and pasta dishes to be eaten on the spot in a friendly, pleasant atmosphere inside or on the terrace. You can also have take away.

Dominando el Torrente pirenaico de Pau, el pueblo de Coarraze está situado al pie de los Pirineos entre Pau y Lourdes. Es en el pueblo típico de Béarn, en lo que el restaurante el Bienvenido le acoge y donde a los habitantes locales les gusta encontrarse. Su jefe Olivier, le propone una cocina amistosa a base de productos locales con diferentes fórmulas: platos del día, à la carte y también su menú especial " Gallina al Pote " sobre reserva.

Located in the walled town of Bruges' main square, dating from the 12th century, at the foot of the Pyrenees, the "Café du Commerce" is open every day, year-round. Situated on the way of Compostelle GR 78, the establishment is well known by pilgrims, who have a break in their journey there. In this place you can enjoy a traditional, generous and family cooking with local seasonal products (confit, foie gras, steaklet of duck, local traditional cabbage soup). For your family meals, weddings and other festive gathering, the dining room can welcome up to 120 people.

Located in Bénéjacq, in the heart of the village and on the main square close to the shops, Les Petits Gourmands restaurant is the fusion of two restaurants: La Pizz' and Tirant d'Eau. Freddy and his team welcome you to a culinary pole with several types of restaurant. In the morning, you'll find a bread and pastry shop for a gourmet break. At lunchtime, your restaurant owners offer traditional brasserie-style dining. In the evening, try the homemade pizzas prepared by Freddy and Jonathan (takeaway from October to June and eat-in and takeaway from June to October). The restaurant comes alive two nights a week on Friday and Saturday evenings with bistro-bar evenings. The roast chicken at Sunday lunchtime will not leave you indifferent.

Between Nay and Lourdes, in Lestelle-Bétharram, this fully renovated old house adjoining the owners' home, offers a beautiful view of the plains and mountains. This house has two large bedrooms and everything needed for an enjoyable stay. Outside, you can enjoy a large park with its south facing terrace, la plancha, ping-pong table as well as the volleyball net. The region being rich in cultural heritage, you will be able to explore the walled town of Lestelle-Bétharram and the Bétharram Grottos. You could also walk to the Croix des Hauteurs, which is very close to the cottage, and enjoy its breath-taking views. For lovers of aquatic life, the Gave de Pau is bursting with fishing spots.

Near Nay and Lourdes, the Vieux Logis hotel-restaurant is located a few steps from the region's most important tourist site, the Bétharram grottos. This family home has been lovingly converted into a charming hotel complex by their owners, Francis and Marie-Pierre Gaye. Today, the hotel-restaurant offers a contemporary décor. With its 28 rooms labelled Logis (3 "cocottes" and 3 "fireplaces"), and its 5 huts ("Insolite By Logis"), this establishment is a safe bet as much for the quality of the reception and its rooms, as for its restaurant. The cuisine served showcases the local gastronomy.

Close to the Ossau valley, in the bastide town of Lestelle-Bétharram, you'll find the Gite Chez Clouté. This large, detached gite combines old-world charm with modern touches and boasts views of the mountains and surrounding countryside. Anne-Marie welcomes you to a house with 3 bedrooms, a lounge, a large kitchen and a private garden with terrace. Nearby, you can enjoy white-water sports such as rafting or canoeing, or take a walk in the fresh air and visit the sanctuaries of Lestelle. Quench your thirst for curiosity with the heritage trail, which traces the history of the bastide town of Lestelle-Bétharram, a walled city built in the Middle Ages.

At the premices of a pyrenean valley, at the border of Bearn and Bigorra, a fully renovated semi-detached house welcomes you for your next holiday. The house is located on one of the mythical roads of the Tour de France leading to the Col d'Aubisque and to the Soulor. This 1185 sq ft house, offers all the conveniences needed for a pleasant stay. It combines the rustic charm of old stones to modern amenities (WiFi connection, heated swimming-pool to share with the owners from may to october...) this cottage in the countryside. Near this house, there are activities for everyone: fishing, white water activities, hiking, not to mention discovering the Nay Region’s cultural heritage.

In the village of Arthez d'Asson in Béarn, at the foot of the Pyrenees, this 970 square feet detached cottage has been completely renovated. This house, with an exposed stone interior, has kept the rustic charm of Béarnaise houses with its oak and large dining room with a fireplace. This house has two large bedrooms and everything needed for an enjoyable stay. Its 1000 m2 garden offers a quiet environment with a panoramic view of the countryside and mountains. Its location gives you privileged access to marked hiking trails and also allows you to discover the Gave, fishing and white water sports. For everyone else, tasting local specialities, country cheese, foie gras or visiting museums can be scheduled during your stay.

At the heart of this walled town of Lestelle Bétharram, the school complex "Le Beau Rameau" is located near Nay towards Lourdes. Equipped with 30 beds throughout the year and 130 during the school holidays, the hotel offers half-board or full board. Ideal for sports groups, it has sports fields, an indoor gym, a wall, tennis, basketball and handball courts. It is equipped with a meeting room with free WiFi. Near the Chemin Henri IV overlooking the Gave de Pau, it is ideally located for groups of hikers, cyclists and white water enthusiasts.

In the countryside, in the village of Asson in Béarn, the Latapie home invites you to relax in the quiet environment. Nestled in the midst of meadows and mountains, this single-story cottage sits in the heart of an old house that has been restored and comfortably furnished for a family vacation. In any season, leisure activities, or other more gourmet or even cultural activities await you. Sportier guests can especially enjoy the nearby hiking trails with the Way of St. James, or the Chemin Henri IV. For children, do not miss the farm discovery visits close by or the Asson zoo. A few kilometres away, fun discovery circuits also await you: FBI (Force Béarnaise d’Investigation) investigations will let them play trainee police officers.

In the heart of the Béarn, between plains and mountains, this house located in Arthez d'Asson is an invitation to relax with its view of the Pyrenees. In this quiet and relaxing property, a double room awaits you, with private bathroom and toilet. Guests can also enjoy meals available on-site. In this green setting, many activities are available: climb the Col du Soulor on bike in the footsteps the Tour de France for those who are brave, or hike the surrounding marked trails, go fishing, and wildlife lovers can visit the Asson Zoo.

At the heart of the fortified town of Lestelle Bétharram, Accueil Notre-Dame is located near the Nay-Lourdes axis, on the Way of St. James. Pilgrimage capital in the 17th century, Accueil Notre Dame, with its 22 rooms and 42 beds, welcomes pilgrims year-round for one or more nights, with or without breakfast, or even on half-board (on reservation). It is also a home for a retreat or a quiet stay. The home is attached to the sanctuary, a unique masterpiece of Baroque art in Béarn, composed of the 17th century Chapel of Our Lady, the old bridge with a single arch and a calvary with 15 stations.

The village of Lestelle Bétharram between Nay and Lourdes, offers visitors passing through a reception area for campers. The reception area is located near "Le Saillet", the municipal campsite, and many white water activities on the Gave de Pau, and it is also less than 5 minutes walking distance from the heart of the walled town founded in 1335, the Bétharram Sanctuary and shops. Attention: there are no flushing and filling terminals.